A humble brewery from Wisconsin has just taken the global beer scene by storm. In a remarkable achievement, the brewery was named one of the best in the world at the 2025 World Beer Cup, a prestigious international competition often called “the Olympics of beer.”
The announcement came this week as brewers, experts, and enthusiasts from across the globe gathered in Las Vegas, where the event was hosted this year. For Wisconsin’s beer scene, this recognition is not just a win — it’s a proud moment putting the state firmly on the global brewing map.
What Is the World Beer Cup?
The World Beer Cup, organized by the Brewers Association, is one of the largest and most respected beer competitions worldwide. Held every two years, it brings together entries from more than 50 countries, representing every corner of the brewing industry — from tiny microbreweries to well-known international brands.
This year, more than 10,000 entries competed across 100+ categories, judged by a panel of trained experts evaluating aroma, flavor, appearance, and style accuracy.
To learn more about the World Beer Cup and its judging process, visit the official website: https://www.worldbeercup.org
Wisconsin’s Unexpected Champion
The winning brewery, Third Gear Brewing Co., is based in a small town outside Madison. Known for its dedication to craft and community, Third Gear has always had a loyal local following. But now, thanks to its award-winning “Copper Rail Red Ale”, the entire world is taking notice.
The ale, which won a Gold Medal in the American-Style Amber/Red Ale category, was praised for its balance, smooth malt profile, and clean finish. The judges highlighted how it managed to respect traditional style notes while adding a modern twist.
“We brew with heart and tradition,” said head brewer and co-founder Mark Halvorsen. “We never expected this kind of recognition. It’s surreal.”
A Boost for Local Brewing
Wisconsin has a long brewing history, dating back to German immigrants in the 1800s. While larger names like Miller and Leinenkugel often take the spotlight, smaller craft breweries have been slowly gaining ground over the past decade.
This win is expected to bring more attention to the state’s vibrant craft beer scene, which includes over 200 microbreweries and brewpubs. Many local owners see Third Gear’s win as a hopeful sign for the entire region.
“It proves that great beer doesn’t need to come from a big city or a massive operation,” said Lisa Reilly, owner of Hop Hollow Brewery in Eau Claire. “It’s about passion, ingredients, and community.”
Recognition Beyond Borders
This recognition means more than just a medal — it could open international doors for the brewery. Retailers and distributors from Europe and Asia have already reached out to Third Gear Brewing for possible partnerships.
Tourism could also see a boost. Beer fans often travel to visit award-winning breweries, and local businesses are preparing for a surge of visitors over the summer.
According to the Wisconsin Brewers Guild, craft beer tourism brought in over $1.2 billion in economic activity in 2024. With this win, 2025 could be even bigger.
Brewing Excellence in Every Sip
So what makes Third Gear Brewing’s Copper Rail Red Ale so special?
It all starts with local ingredients — water from a nearby spring, hops sourced from Wisconsin farms, and malt roasted in small batches. The brewery also sticks to traditional brewing methods, avoiding shortcuts or mass production techniques.
“It’s a beer that tells a story,” Halvorsen explained. “You taste the place, the people, the process.”
Looking Ahead
With international recognition now behind them, the team at Third Gear isn’t slowing down. They’re already working on a new limited-release beer to commemorate their win. Fans can expect it to drop this autumn — and if it’s anything like the Copper Rail Red Ale, it’s going to fly off the shelves.
The brewery also hopes to expand its reach, possibly entering more beers in the next Great American Beer Festival or even launching in selected European markets.
Final Thoughts
A small-town brewery winning global praise shows how far passion, craft, and community can take you. Third Gear Brewing Co. has not just made Wisconsin proud — it has reminded the world that great beer can come from anywhere.
Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just someone who loves supporting local businesses, this story is worth raising a glass to.
Disclaimer: This article has been meticulously fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy and uphold transparency. We strive to deliver trustworthy and dependable content to our readers.
Jon King is an experienced journalist with 3 years of experience in the field. With a strong background in investigative reporting, Jon is known for his in-depth coverage of crime news, finance news, local news, and USA news. Currently working with Mikeandjonpodcast, Jon brings his sharp investigative skills, where he provides timely updates and analysis on a wide range of topics. His commitment to delivering accurate and impactful news has earned him a reputation for providing insightful and comprehensive stories that resonate with his audience.
