2019 U.S. Open Beer Competition: San Diego Winners

The results of the U.S. Open Beer Competition were announced while I was traveling about a month ago, so I missed them until now. Congratulations to six San Diego brewing companies for winning a total of nine medals.

According to the website for the competition, “Breweries from Russia to Rhode Island sent in more than 7,000 beers representing over 130 different styles for the 2019 U.S. Open Beer Championship. The competition is the only one to include beers from professional breweries and award-winning home-brewers, with judges from England, Canada and the United States.”

The winners represent roughly the top 5% of beers submitted. San Diego breweries won approximately 2.7% of the medals awarded. San Diego breweries make up about 2.1% of all US breweries so, adding in the international breweries, that suggests San Diego is once again punching above its weight in this competition. There was no indication how many San Diego brewers submitted beers, but I’m guessing a lot less than for competitions held nearby—this one was in Ohio.

Bronze, English India Pale Ale/IPA: In the Meantime – South Park Brewing

Silver, Bitter: Robert Smith’s Smooth – South Park Brewing

Bronze, Russian Imperial Stout: Rescue Buoy Imperial Stout – Rip Current Brewing

Silver, Wood/Barrel-Aged Strong Scotch Ale: Barrel-aged Black Lagoon – Rip Current Brewing

Silver, Belgian Dubbel: Get Thee to a Monastery – Burning Beard Brewing

Silver, Ketch Brewing: Dr. Billheimer’s Magic Pilsner – Ketch Brewing

Silver, American Wheat (Light and Dark): Meister – Eppig Brewing

Bronze, India Pale Lager: Tropic of Thunder Lager – Stone Brewing

Silver, Smoke Beer: Rogalian – Stone Brewing Liberty Station

Here is the full list of winners.