Golden Triumph: How Six Minnesota Breweries Tasted Success in World’s Most Prestigious Beer Competition

On July 4, 2021, the Canyon Club microbrewery restaurant in Moraga, California was buzzing with excitement as patrons savored a close-up glass of Beta Tested Pilsner. The image captured by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images showcased the vibrant craft beer scene at the establishment. Meanwhile, in Minnesota, several breweries were celebrating their victories at the World Beer Cup Awards held in Las Vegas. Described as the “most prestigious beer competition in the world,” the event saw breweries compete for gold, silver, or bronze medals in 110 categories. Out of over 9,000 entries from more than 2,000 breweries worldwide, six Minnesota craft breweries emerged triumphant.

Jess Talley, executive director of the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild, praised the local breweries for their passion, talent, and hard work that led to their success at the prestigious event. She emphasized how these awards prove that some of the best beer in the world is crafted by Minnesota’s very own breweries and brewpubs. Among the Minnesota breweries that won medals were Bent Paddle Brewing Co. in Duluth, Northbound Smokehouse and Brewpub in Minneapolis, Excelsior Brewing Co. in Excelsior, Lupulin Brewing in Big Lake, BeerClub Brewing in Mora, and Pryes Brewing Co. in Minneapolis. Each brewery took home a gold