European Beer Star 2023 Winners

European Beer Star 2023

Nuremberg, 29 November 2023: The 20th European Beer Star is concluded. The Association Private Brauereien, the organiser of the beer competition, presented the award today at BrauBeviale in Nuremberg. 

Beers from all over the world

Since the beginning of the European Beer Star, beer styles of European origin have been the focal point of the beer competition. However, breweries from all over the world are allowed to take part. This year, the organisers were delighted to receive 2,356 entries for 74 beer categories. These submissions came from over 550 breweries representing 47 countries.

The list of categories includes classic beer styles such as "German-Style Pils" or "South-German Style Hefeweizen Hell", as well as  exotic styles such as "Herb and Spice Beer" or "Wood and Barrel Aged Sour Beer". 

Evaluation based on sensory criteria

In mid-September, a panel of 140 experts evaluated the submitted beer samples solely based on sensory criteria. From preliminary and intermediate rounds to the final assessment in each category, the beers were judged based on their appearance, aroma, flavor, and other distinctive characteristics. The international expert jury consistied of beer professionals from around the world, including master brewers, specialized journalists, and beer sommeliers. Ultimately, only the top three beers in each category were awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals.

Germany leads the medal table, USA in second place

At the European Beer Star 2023, a total of 222 awards were presented, with 83 of them going to breweries in Germany. With 28 gold, 27 silver, and 28 bronze medals, Germany tops the medal table.

In second place were the USA with 9 gold, 8 silver, and 10 bronze medals. Crossing the Alps to Italy, 8 gold, 12 silver, and 10 bronze awards were received this year. Austria followed with a total of 18 awards (6 gold, 7 silver, 5 bronze), and Switzerland with 7 awards (4 gold, 3 silver). In total, 21 nations are represented on the medal table of the European Beer Star 2023 – a clear indication of the international nature of the competition.

The best breweries

With three gold and one bronze medal, Schneider Weisse Brewery from Kelheim is the most successful brewery in this year's competition, once again showcasing their expertise in the wheat beer categories.

On the international level, the Firestone Walker Brewing Company impressed with double gold.

A particularly noteworthy achievement came from the war-torn Ukraine, with Pravda Brewery winning two gold awards.

All winners

A list of all the winners can be found here: European Beer Star 2023

Foto: © wegro communications