Richmond, VA – The Virginia Craft Brewers Guild (VCBG) announced the 2021 Virginia Craft Beer Cup winners on Monday, August 16, 2021, at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery’s West Creek location. This year’s competition was managed by Head Judge Charlie Harr. 283 beers in 20 categories from 95 independent craft breweries competed in the largest competition in VCBG history. Judging took place over three days (June 4th, 5th, and 12th) at Old Ox Brewery in Ashburn, Virginia.
“The Virginia Craft Brewers Guild and Virginia Craft Beer Cup’s 10th Anniversary is an amazing milestone,” said Janell Zurschmeide, Dirt Farm Brewing and VCBG Chair. “Celebrating the 2021 Cup competitors and winners with friends and colleagues is a fitting tribute to our members’ commitment to amazing independent craft beer.”
“This year’s competition was phenomenal,” said Charlie Harr, Head Judge. “Each brewery clearly exemplified their passion and their skills in the great beers put forward. That same passion was also shown by the tremendous judges as they worked to find the best of the best.”
The Virginia Craft Beer Cup continues to be the largest state competition of its kind in the United States. The VCBG is committed to giving its members the opportunity to compete, obtain critical feedback from certified judges, and get statewide recognition that will help build their brands. The VCBG is also developing additional media, retail marketing, and tourism opportunities for Cup winners this year, ranging from a Cup Winner Beer Trail to digital medals for labels and retail POS displays.
“The Guild is excited to celebrate its 10th Anniversary and recognizing the winners of the 2021 Virginia Craft Beer Cup is the best way to celebrate,” said Brett Vassey, VCBG President & CEO.
See the full list of winners here, including:
IPA
First Place Pale Fire Brewing Company, Arrant IPA
Second Place Fair Winds Brewing Company, Howling Gale
Third Place The Vanguard Brewery & Distillery, Snap Guns IPA