04/08/2023
Last Thursday, Portland played host to the Oregon Beer Awards ceremony, where the best beers from across the state were honored. Since its launch in 2015, this competition has become a big deal, attracting over 100 seasoned judges to vote across more than 30 categories. It's now one of the most renowned and significant events of its kind in the region.
Congrats to all the winners, but especially the 5 BREWERIES FROM EUGENE!
Coldfire Brewing's Gold success in the 'hoppy lagers' category is a testament to the brewery's ability to balance smart and everyman flavors in their Italian style pilsner. By incorporating a blend of traditional hops and Nuevo German varieties, they've created a beer that not only stays true to the classic pilsner style, but also introduces a new and exciting dimension of flavor.
Their success continues with their bronze medal win in the India pale ale category with Skyline Dreams. This is a great fruity and refreshing beer.
Alesong Brewing seems to have a unique approach to their brewing process, with a focus on mixed culture beers and barrel aging. They won Gold in the fruited mixed culture beers category with their Raspberry Parliament. An interesting combination of flavors with the use of biodynamically grown raspberries and stout barrels.
Alesong also snagged Bronze for The SeΓ±or Rhino, a decadent dessert in a bottle with the addition of Mexican hot chocolate spices and chilies to their flagship Imperial Stout.
Oakshire Brewing has something to celebrate after winning Gold in the classic North American styles category with its Line Dry Rye. This spring seasonal American pale ale is a standout beer with a unique combination of honey and dry-hopped flaked malt. It's the perfect example of how breweries can balance classic styles with innovative ingredients to create a beer that appeals to both beer aficionados and casual drinkers alike.
Falling Sky Brewing is celebrating Silver in the classic North American styles category with their Upside Brown, an American brown ale that is a perfect fusion of the North English brown ale style. This beer boasts a unique flavor profile that combines the best of both worlds. The North English brown ale brings a nutty and biscuity flavor, while the American brown ale adds a touch of hop bitterness and a slightly more robust malt backbone resulting in a beer that is both approachable and complex.
Ninkasi Brewing's Belgian Quad won silver in the Belgian beers, German wheat beers, and traditional Brett beers category, showcasing the brewery's commitment to crafting unique and high-quality brews. This rich and full-bodied beer features a fruity and spicy character from Belgian yeast, balanced by a subtle addition of hops for a harmonious and approachable flavor. The beer's complexity and recognition at the highest level of competitions make it a beloved example of the style.
