The “Olympics of Beer” — the 2023 World Beer Cup Competition — took place in Nashville, TN on May 10. Organized by the Brewers Association, this global event attracted 2,376 small and independent craft brewers from 51 countries, who submitted an incredible 10,213 entries. A panel of 272 judges from 26 countries had the tough task of evaluating them all. North Carolina beers and breweries shone brightly at the competition, clinching 13 well-deserved medals out of a total of 307. The state shared the 5th position with Washington state in terms of the number of awards received.
It’s amazing to see how the industry has evolved in the state over the last two decades. Craft breweries in North Carolina not only produce top-notch beer but also fuel the state’s economy by generating employment opportunities and boosting tourism. Moreover, these cozy establishments offer a social hub that brings local communities together. This is according to Lisa Parker, the executive director of the North Carolina Craft Brewers Guild.
“In addition to producing incredible world-class beer, North Carolina beers and breweries are reinvigorating our rural downtowns, driving tourism across the state, and creating thousands of jobs,” said Lisa Parker, executive director of the North Carolina Craft Brewers Guild. “Our small businesses provide neighborhoods and communities with a welcoming space to gather.”
Read about the 13 North Carolina beers winners!
Incendiary Brewing Company (Winston-Salem, NC): 2 gold medals
What an achievement. North Carolina beers deserve gold and Incendiary Brewing Company delivered. They are known for their creative beer recipes and their unique atmosphere.
Sugar Creek Brewing Company (Charlotte, NC): 1 gold medal
What an amazing achievement! Sugar Creek Brewing Company is known for their Belgian-inspired beers and their commitment to sustainability, with a focus on local ingredients and eco-friendly practices.
Appalachian Mountain Brewery (Boone, NC): 1 gold medal and 1 silver medal
Appalachian Mountain Brewery is a community focused brewery that uses local ingredients and supports local farmers and businesses.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company (Mills River, NC): 1 silver medal
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company ‘s Mills River location is one of our favorites. The brewery uses high-quality ingredients. Their commitment to environmental sustainability is great to see in the industry. Their brewery, restaurant, and outdoor area are a must when visiting the mountains near Asheville.
Foothills Brewing (Winston-Salem, NC): 1 silver medal
Foothills Brewing is one of the oldest and most established craft breweries in North Carolina. They make high-quality beers and their commitment to both sustainability and community involvement are major pillars.
Hi-Wire Brewing (Asheville, NC): 1 silver medal
Hi-Wire Brewing is a wonderful family-owned brewery. Their circus-themed beers are delicious. They focus on creativity and experimentation in their brewing process. They also recently opened in Charlotte.
D9 Brewing Company (Charlotte, NC): 1 bronze medal
D9 Brewing Company innovates with their ingredients! Their brewing process includes the use of lactose, fruits, and spices to create unique and flavorful beers.
Pilot Brewing Company (Charlotte, NC): 1 silver medal
Pilot Brewing Company is a small, independent brewery in Charlotte’s Plaza Midwood neighborhood that focuses on experimentation and pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles.
Ponysaurus Brewing Company (Durham, NC): 1 bronze medal
Ponysaurus Brewing Company is a small, independent brewery that focuses on creating unique and innovative beer styles, using ingredients like local honey and wildflowers.
Lenny Boy Brewing Company (Charlotte, NC): 1 bronze medal
One of our favorite North Carolina beers!!! Lenny Boy Brewing Company specializes in creating gluten-free beers and kombucha, with a focus on using locally-sourced ingredients and sustainable brewing practices.
New Belgium Brewing (Asheville, NC): 1 bronze medal
New Belgium Brewing is a Colorado-based brewery that opened a second location in Asheville, NC in 2016, known for their wide range of quality beers and their commitment to environmental sustainability and community involvement.
