Houston – Texas breweries are having a major moment after bringing home 13 medals at the 2026 World Beer Cup, one of the most prestigious beer competitions in the world. The global event, produced by the Brewers Association, evaluated more than 8,000 entries from breweries across 50 countries, with winners announced in Philadelphia earlier this year.
On Houston Life, we’re diving into what those wins mean for the Texas craft beer scene and why American Craft Beer Week is the perfect time to raise a glass to local brewers.
James Simpson, host of What’s on Tap Radio, breaks down how beers are judged through a blind-tasting process led by highly trained experts certified through the Beer Judge Certification Program.
He brought a winning flight of Texas medal winners, including Spoetzl Brewery, Saint Arnold Brewing Company, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewery, and Real Ale Brewing Company.
Beyond the medals and the tasting, there’s also a bigger conversation happening in the craft beer community. With some local breweries facing closures in recent months, advocates are encouraging supporters to show love in any way they can, whether that’s visiting taprooms, buying merch, or simply engaging with their social media.
Cheers to these Texas beers!