Wisconsin once again proved its dominance in the world of craft beer during the 2025 World Beer Cup, securing five major awards at one of the most prestigious beer competitions in the world. With over 8,000 entries from nearly 50 countries, the event, hosted by the Brewers Association, showcases the finest brewing talent globally.
This year, Wisconsin’s breweries brought home gold, silver, and bronze medals, highlighting the state’s legacy in brewing innovation and craftsmanship.
New Glarus Brewing Company Wins Three Medals
Leading Wisconsin’s impressive medal haul was the acclaimed New Glarus Brewing Company, based in New Glarus, Wisconsin. Known for their creativity and precision in brewing, New Glarus captured three separate medals at the event:
- 🥇 Gold Medal: Kriek – Belgian Fruit Beer
- 🥈 Silver Medal: Champ Du Blanc – Belgian Fruit Beer
- 🥉 Bronze Medal: Imperial Pilsner – Other Strong Beer
The Kriek, made using cherries and wild fermentation techniques, stood out for its balance of tartness and fruit flavor. Judges praised it for its complexity and authenticity in the Belgian tradition. Meanwhile, Champ Du Blanc, a white wine-inspired fruit beer, continued New Glarus’s reputation for blending art with tradition.
Their Imperial Pilsner further demonstrated their skill in delivering strong yet drinkable lagers, earning accolades in a competitive category.
Earth Rider Brewery Takes Gold in Stout Category
Another Wisconsin standout was Earth Rider Brewery, located in Superior. The brewery’s North Tower Stout clinched the gold medal in the Oatmeal Stout category.
Earth Rider, known for brewing beers that reflect the heritage and rugged charm of the northland, impressed judges with this robust stout’s velvety texture and roasted malt character.
Oatmeal stouts are a classic style that requires a delicate balance between creaminess and bitterness, and Earth Rider delivered with precision. Their win represents not just a triumph for the brewery but a testament to northern Wisconsin’s vibrant and evolving craft beer scene.
Hinterland Brewery Earns Bronze for German-Style Altbier
Rounding out Wisconsin’s medal wins was Hinterland Brewery from Green Bay. Their Hinterland Altbier earned a bronze medal in the German-Style Altbier category. This style, rooted in Düsseldorf brewing tradition, requires exceptional control of fermentation and lagering techniques.
The Hinterland Altbier drew praise for its toasty malt backbone and clean, crisp finish. It stood out in a category dominated by German and European competitors, showcasing that Wisconsin brewers can master both experimental and traditional styles.
What Makes the World Beer Cup So Prestigious?
Often referred to as the “Olympics of Beer,” the World Beer Cup is one of the most competitive and esteemed brewing competitions in the world. In 2025, more than 2,000 breweries submitted over 8,300 entries from 50 countries.
A panel of 265 international judges evaluated beers across 117 categories, assessing everything from appearance and aroma to taste and style accuracy.
Winning a medal at this competition is a major achievement that sets breweries apart in a global marketplace. It signals not just great beer, but excellence in technique, consistency, and innovation.
For more on the official 2025 World Beer Cup winners and judging criteria, visit the Brewers Association.
Wisconsin’s Brewing Heritage and Bright Future
Wisconsin’s showing at the World Beer Cup isn’t surprising to those familiar with the state’s deep-rooted brewing culture. From its 19th-century German brewing influence to the modern craft explosion, Wisconsin has always been a centerpiece of American beer history.
With these 2025 wins, the state continues to evolve its reputation — not just as a beer-producing region, but as a hub of brewing artistry. Breweries like New Glarus, Earth Rider, and Hinterland demonstrate the balance between honoring brewing traditions and pushing the boundaries of innovation.
Conclusion: A Global Toast to Wisconsin Craft Beer
The success of Wisconsin breweries at the 2025 World Beer Cup reinforces the state’s place on the international craft beer map. New Glarus’s trio of medals, Earth Rider’s bold stout, and Hinterland’s classic altbier prove that Wisconsin brewers are not only upholding a legacy — they are leading the charge into the future of global beer.
As the world raises a glass to this year’s winners, Wisconsin beer lovers can take pride in knowing that their local favorites are not just good — they’re among the best in the world.
For a full list of winners and category details from the 2025 World Beer Cup, visit the official Brewers Association website.
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