This past weekend, Denver became the epicenter of the American craft beer community as it hosted the 2024 Great American Beer Festival (GABF). The event gathered an impressive assembly of over 500 breweries from across the nation, attracting approximately 40,000 beer aficionados from various corners of the globe. Recognized as the largest tasting event of its nature, the GABF not only offers the chance to sample an incredible diversity of brews but also serves as a benchmark for quality and innovation in the industry. This festival, organized by the Brewers Association, plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of craft beer through its prestigious award system.
Even after decades since its inaugural event in 1987, the GABF remains dedicated to celebrating the evolving styles and flavors of craft beer, particularly India Pale Ales (IPAs). The IPA has become synonymous with American craft brewing culture, commanding a remarkable 46% share of the fascinating $29 billion craft beer market. This dominance among consumers reveals an unwavering enthusiasm for IPAs, further evidenced by the staggering 8,836 entries submitted across nearly all beer categories this year.
The prominence of IPAs at this year’s festival was unmistakable, with eight distinct categories showcasing various styles that emphasized the hop-forward character of the beer. Among the most popular entries were Juicy/Hazy IPA, West Coast IPA, and American Style IPA. These three categories, in particular, garnered keen attention and participation, highlighting the diverse interpretations and brewing techniques employed by various craft brewers.
Much like the Olympics, the GABF awarded medals in a gold, silver, and bronze format, recognizing excellence within each category. Celebrated for their unique flavors and characteristic profiles, the winners of this year’s IPA subcategories exhibited the innovation that drives the craft beer movement forward.
In the Juicy/Hazy IPA category, the gold medal was awarded to Ambitious Ales’ „Professional Human Being,“ originating from Long Beach, California. This exceptional brew, boasting a 7.2% ABV, is double dry-hopped with Nelson, Citra, and Motueka hops, resulting in a creamy orange hue and an intoxicating bouquet of tropical fruits and melons. However, for those eager to sample this delightful concoction, direct visits to the brewery’s taproom are essential, as it currently lacks national distribution.
Not to be outdone, will Long Beach made its mark once again in the West Coast IPA category, with Trademark Brewing earning gold for their 7% ABV creation, “Codebreaker.” This beer offers a crisp yet dank experience, expertly balancing flavors of apricot and pine, delivering a refreshing palate dance. Those interested can find this brew available in 16 oz. cans, priced at $18, with the option for online ordering limited to California residents.
Moreover, in the American Style IPA category, Highland Park Brewery took home the prestigious gold for its aptly named “Competition.” This 7.3% ABV beer stands out for its more pronounced malt profile, seamlessly complementing the heavy hop presence and yielding toasted cereal notes alongside the resiny flavors from the Mosaic, Citra, and Cascade hops. With a retail price of $22 for 4-pack cans in Southern California, this brew invites beer enthusiasts to explore the balance of malt and hops.
The dominance of Greater Los Angeles in this year’s GABF awards highlighted a significant evolution within the region’s brewing scene. Once overshadowed by the famed breweries in the San Francisco Bay Area and San Diego, Los Angeles made a powerful statement by securing gold medals across all three of the top IPA categories. This win is a testament to the creative ingenuity and perseverance of the Los Angeles craft brewing community, which has grown into a vibrant and competitive player within the industry.
The 2024 Great American Beer Festival served not only as a platform for sampling unparalleled brews but also as an important milestone within the intricate landscape of craft beer. Each medal awarded represents the dedication and artistry that goes into creating these celebrated beverages. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the festival continues to be an inspiring celebration of the flavors that define America’s craft beer revolution. Cheers to all the winners and a bright future for the craft brewing industry!
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