2024 World Beer Cup

Inaugurated in 1996, the World Beer Cup was established to honor the craft and innovation in the brewing industry. This esteemed global contest heightens consumer knowledge of the diverse beer styles and taste profiles. It also champions the pursuit of brewing distinction on an international scale.

Known as “the Olympics of beer,” the World Beer Cup is the most prestigious beer competition in the world. It’s held annually in conjunction with the Craft Brewers Conference® & BrewExpo America®.

“Recognition of product superiority by experts within the industry signals to consumers that these brands represent the pinnacle of quality,” notes Chris Williams, the director of the World Beer Cup competition.

Awards Philosophy

More than 100 categories are acknowledged by the World Beer Cup for their brewing prowess. Yet it doesn’t guarantee accolades to the top three contenders in any given category. Only when the judges agree that a category showcases three outstanding renditions of a beer style will they confer gold, silver, and bronze medals to the beers ranking first, second, and third, respectively.

“Beer assessment is multifaceted,” Williams explains. “At the professional tier, it’s akin to a scholarly critique. With the outcomes made public, it allows the beer aficionados to discern which brews are of superior quality. It also reveals which ones are quintessential representations of particular styles, as per the judges’ interpretation.”

At the World Beer Cup, it’s within the judges’ discretion to bestow any combination of the three possible awards, even opting to omit certain distinctions. For instance, a beer might be deemed worthy of a silver or bronze but may not secure a gold. Discover more.

About the Brewers Association

The Brewers Association, a non-profit organization. It’s committed to supporting America’s small and independent brewers, their craft, and the brewing community. It is the proud organizer of the World Beer Cup.