More than 60 beers to put on your must-try list
At the event, Secretary of Agriculture Bettina Ring informed guests that the state has 330 independent craft breweries. Craft brewing has a $1.4 billion impact in the commonwealth and employs 10,000 people.
The Virginia Craft Beer Cup competition is organized by the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild, the state affiliate of the Brewers Association, with many of Virginia’s independent breweries as members. This year marked the 10th anniversary of the VCBG.
Of the state’s 330 breweries, 95 entered 283 beers in 20 categories, making it the largest competition in VCBG history. Member breweries from around the state attended the August ceremony.
The Virginia Craft Beer Cup is the largest state competition of its kind in the United States. It gives member breweries the chance to compete, obtain critical feedback from certified judges, and get statewide recognition to help build their brands. The VCBG is developing other opportunities for winners, ranging from a Cup Winner Beer Trail to digital medals for labels and retail displays.
Let the winners’ list be your guide to Virginia breweries to visit or beers to nab from retail shelves or restaurants. Helpful planning resources include the Virginia Brewery Map or to the Virginia Tourism Corporation’s craft beer site.
View article by Annie Tobey here.