The World Beer Cup, often referred to as the “Olympics of Beer Competitions,” has been a premier event since its inception in 1996. Hosted annually by the Brewers Association, a trade group representing over 5,400 beer makers, the World Beer Cup brings together expert judges from 26 different countries to evaluate and award medals across 103 different beer styles.
The IPA Obsession
In the world of craft beer, IPAs (India Pale Ales) continue to reign supreme. At the 2024 World Beer Cup, there were a total of eight subcategories dedicated to IPAs, making it one of the most popular and competitive beer styles. Hazy IPAs led the pack with 326 entries, followed by West-Coast Style IPAs with 281 entries, and American-Style IPAs with 213 entries.
While the term “India Pale Ale” dates back to 1835 England, modern interpretations of the style have evolved significantly. Today, IPAs come in a wide range of flavors, aromas, and brewing techniques, pushing the boundaries of what was once a traditional beer style. This constant evolution is reflected in the diverse array of IPAs submitted for judging at the World Beer Cup.
Of the eight gold medal-winning IPAs at the World Beer Cup, California emerged as a dominant force, claiming five of the top prizes. Four of these winners hailed from Southern California, showcasing the region’s expertise in brewing exceptional IPAs. While many of these award-winning beers have limited distribution, beer enthusiasts are encouraged to explore Southern California to sample these top IPAs firsthand.
One standout among the gold medalists is the double dry-hopped Beezer IPA, a pulpy tropical-fruit bomb with a 6.9% ABV. This flavor-packed IPA is available in canned 16 oz. 4-packs for $14, making it accessible to beer lovers outside of California. As the IPA trend continues to grow, the demand for innovative and high-quality IPAs shows no signs of slowing down.
Looking Ahead
The Great American Beer Festival, another prestigious event organized by the Brewers Association, is set to take place later this year in Denver, Colorado. Beer enthusiasts can expect to discover more award-winning IPAs and lesser-known gems at this highly anticipated festival. With the craft beer movement pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles, the future looks bright for IPAs and the creative brewers behind them.
The World Beer Cup serves as a celebration of innovation, creativity, and excellence in the craft beer industry. As beer lovers continue to seek out new and exciting flavors, IPAs remain at the forefront of the movement, captivating taste buds and pushing the boundaries of what beer can be. Cheers to the brewers, judges, and enthusiasts who continue to elevate the world of craft beer through events like the World Beer Cup.
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