Every year, some of the world’s most respected palates gather in Belgium for the Brussels Beer Challenge, a celebration of global brewing excellence set in the heartland of beer tradition. This year, Firestone Walker returned to the international stage and came home with three major honors, including two Gold medals and one Silver across a trio of our most beloved beers.
For our brewing team, these awards are a meaningful nod from one of the toughest judging panels in the craft beer world and a reminder of what can happen when quality, passion, and consistency come together.
“It’s pretty cool that we were awarded medals in three major International Competitions this year. World Beer Cup, European Beer Star, and now Brussels Beer Challenge. DBA won in all three and Pivo and Union Jack both won in two! I’m just happy that our core line-up of beers are still recognized by judges around the world, but most of all proud of the brewing team and their accomplishments!” – Firestone Walker Brewmaster Matt Brynildson
Union Jack — Gold Medal
Our iconic West Coast IPA struck gold in Belgium this year. Bright, punchy, and timeless, Union Jack has long been a staple in our lineup, crafted with a blend of American hops and a dedication to balance that’s carried it from our brewhouse to taprooms around the world. Winning Gold at the Brussels Beer Challenge underscores what many of our fans have known for years: Union Jack remains a defining IPA in the global craft landscape.
Pivo Pils — Gold Medal
Pivo has been a quiet workhorse in our portfolio since the day it was brewed. Crisp, refreshing, and laser-focused on precision. Taking home Gold in Belgium, a country steeped in lager history, is a special moment for our team. It reaffirms our belief that classic styles, brewed with intention and care, can shine just as brightly as the boldest modern expressions.
DBA — Silver Medal
DBA has been with us since the beginning. Our original flagship, oak-fermented and rich with British malt character. It’s a beer that reflects our roots, and earning Silver on the international stage is a celebration of that heritage. DBA has always been a bridge between past and present for us, and this award adds another chapter to its story.
A Toast to the Team, and to You
The Brussels Beer Challenge is one of the largest and most respected competitions in the world, with hundreds of breweries and thousands of entries. To have three of our beers recognized among them is an honor we don’t take lightly.
Most importantly, these wins reflect the people behind our beer: the brewers crafting each batch, the team supporting every release, and the community of fans who’ve been with us through every pour.
Thank you for raising a glass with us.
Here’s to Union Jack, Pivo, DBA and to many more great beers ahead.