Award-Winning Colorado Breweries Celebrate Medal Success

The Great American Beer Festival took place recently in Denver, showcasing the finest offerings from the craft beer and cider industry. Colorado proved its prowess, with local breweries and cideries achieving remarkable success by winning a total of 40 medals, including 19 golds.

Award Success for Colorado Breweries

Despite a slight decrease from last year’s tally of 41, the achievements of Colorado breweries underscore the state’s talent in brewing exceptional craft beverages. This year, over 1,500 breweries and cider makers participated, which emphasizes the significance of Colorado’s accolades.

• Total Medals: 40
• Gold Medals: 19
• Breweries Participated: 1,500+

Honors and Winners

Three Colorado breweries were awarded the prestigious title of “brewery of the year” in different size categories, marking a significant achievement. Shawnee Adelson, Executive Director of the Colorado Brewer Guild, praised the diverse styles produced by local breweries.

• Westbound & Down Brewing Co.: Brewery of the Year (5,001-15,000 barrels)
• River North Brewery: Brewery of the Year (1,001-2,000 barrels)
• Cannonball Creek Brewing Co.: Brewery of the Year (501-1,000 barrels)

Westbound & Down Brewing Co. received six medals, including three golds for its IPAs and lagers. The brewery’s IPA, “How the West Was Won,” triumphed over 299 competitors to secure the top spot in the West Coast IPA category. Additionally, Aspen Brewing Co., a subsidiary of Westbound, earned gold for its Mexican-style pale lager named Casa Bonita.

Other Notable Achievements

Denver’s River North Brewery also made headlines, winning two gold medals. Meanwhile, Cannonball Creek Brewing Co. earned significant recognition with three awards. Noteworthy mentions from other breweries include:

• Denver Beer Co.: Silver for non-alcoholic Tangerine Cream Ale
• Our Mutual Friend Brewing Co.: Silver in American-style IPA
• Fritz Family Brewers: Won the Pro-Am competition with a collaboration brew

Cideries from Colorado also performed well. Haykin Family Cider and Snow Capped Cider collectively achieved seven medals, including awards in the single-varietal cider category.

Conclusion

Colorado’s breweries and cideries continue to impress at national competitions, affirming the state’s place in the craft beverage industry. Their commitment to quality and innovation ensures a bright future for Colorado’s brewing scene.