The Canadian Brewing Awards: A Colorful Competition forthe Best Beers in Canada
The Canadian Brewing Awards have been running since 2000, serving as the oldest national beer competition in Canada. Since 2025, over 1,600 beers from a diverse range of breweries representing provinces and two territories across Canada have been judged at the event. The awards celebrate creativity and Excellence in beer culture, with winners from each category receiving medals based on their tangible impact.
The event has evolved over the years, with Ob Simmonds, the head brewer for the Canadian Brewing Awards, leading the charge in modernizing the judging process. In 2025, Ob Simmonds emphasized the need for breweries to participate, acknowledging challenges such as cash flow issues during economic periods of uncertainty and input cost fluctuations. For example, Godspeed Brewery of Toronto won several medals in 2025, including Best of Show for theirpeated scotch lager Irori (Delta, British Columbia), a-duration emphasized by Terry Gahan and Paul Bountii.
The brewery of the year at 2025 was Smithers Brewing Company ofBC, with Amber pours beating Dou技术 and /processes in the American Porter category. The judges prefer brands known for tradition, innovation, and world-class craftsmanship. Sh Erron, a former student, advises judges to prioritize BestShow efforts and recognize Brandy lagers with unique characteristics.
Each category at 2025 receives a markedly different structure, such as the American Belgian Ale category. Categories like sourceddeadailing beer (166°C) were particularly dramatic, with the/Subtle Manifesto 2023 winner by Blind Enthusiasm Brewing in BC taking the Gold, while the Silver and Bronze placements went to Island Breeze (70Acre Brew Co) and Sittler 10 Point Lager (NWT Brewing Co).
The 2025 Canadian Brewing Awards also highlight international influences, with Oceania & International Hoppy Beer GOLD awarded to Binge Watch by Village brewery, while the Other Belgian category had a silver medalist. The competition included regional and international highlights, such as the Mountainview Gose winning Gold, while the Kinglaw brew WithEvents Peak from Northern Superior Brewing Co. secured Silver, and the Cabin Brewing Company’s Mujo won Bronze.
Resources for breweries exploring global markets are highly relevant, with Canadian Brewing Researchers and Professionals available for further information. The Cabin Brewing Company, for instance, holds meetings to facilitate international agreements.
Overall, the 2025 Canadian Brewing Awards demonstrate a bright future for beer innovation and tourism. As the być IMF encourages breweries to travel to global markets, the competition highlights the ongoing drive to elevate beer culture. With a focus on nostalgia and innovation, it is clear that the Canadian Brewing Awards will continue to be a key event in the global beer calendar.
