Shaketown Brewing Co.’s Pre-Prohibition Pilsner Honored at World Beer Cup
In a triumphant nod to America’s brewing past, Shaketown Brewing Co. from North Vancouver has delighted the craft beer world by securing a bronze medal at the prestigious 2024 World Beer Cup. Their Pre-Prohibition Pilsner made waves in the American-Style Pilsner category, standing out amid fierce competition with over 9,300 entries judged across 110 categories. The award was announced on April 28 in Las Vegas, Nevada, and is often likened to the “Olympics of Beer” by the industry, a sentiment echoed by Shaketown’s co-founder, Ryan Scholz.
Scholz described the moment he heard Shaketown’s name called as a thrilling surprise that caught him in the middle of routine brewery tasks. “I couldn’t believe it,” he admitted, sharing how his triumphant outburst probably startled more than a few patrons in the establishment. The recognition comes in a particularly challenging category, showcasing the craftsmanship involved in reviving a classic beer style with a modern twist.
The First Recipe: A Brewing Milestone
This win carries extra significance for Shaketown, as the pilsner was the very first recipe thought up by brewmaster Dave Varga. Varga aimed to resurrect the flavors of beers from the late 1800s using historic techniques and ingredients, including cluster hops, which lent the beer its distinctive character. Scholz highlights the importance of this achievement, not only for its nostalgic value but also for the recognition of its quality among beer connoisseurs.
Earning a medal at the World Beer Cup twice in two years is an exceptional feat for burgeoning breweries like Shaketown, who previously took home bronze in 2023 for their unique Grisette, crafted in the Herb and Spice category. With seasoned expertise, Varga’s touch continues to shine, previously having garnered accolades while leading the brewhouse at 33 Acres. According to Scholz, the American-Style pilsner is a clean, less bitter beverage, positioned perfectly for easy enjoyment without off-putting extremes.
A Busy Season Ahead for Shaketown
The recent accolade has generated considerable buzz within the local beer community, and Shaketown is gearing up for a bustling summer. In addition to adding to his responsibilities, Scholz shared his recent acquisition of a delivery van, signifying his hands-on involvement in expanding the brewery’s distribution. “I’ll be taking on delivery duties for the next few months,” he announced, revealing the challenges of keeping up with growing demand.
For travelers and beer lovers venturing through North Vancouver, BreweriesNearMe.us is your go-to guide for exploration. In addition to finding Shaketown’s award-winning pilsner, take the opportunity to discover other standout local breweries and the unique flavors defining America’s craft beer landscapes.
Celebrate the spirit of craft beer with these relevant hashtags: #CraftBeerCommunity #AmericanStylePilsner #BeerTourism #LocalBreweries #BreweryLife
