“This one is for Alaska!” – David McCarthy, Founder/President, 49th State Brewing.

Join us in celebrating this exciting news from the other side of the globe. 49th State Brewing was named Champion Medium-Sized International Brewery at the prestigious Royal Melbourne Australian International Beer Awards. Being the first brewery from Alaska to win a Champion Award and the sole winner representing Alaska this year means we had the unique opportunity to show the world what brewers here can do. This recognition is a tremendous honor for our team, and representing Alaska on an international stage alongside so many outstanding breweries is something we’ve worked long and hard for.

Though separated by oceans and hemispheres, Alaska and Australia share a unique connection; vast frontiers and untamed land. Both have long attracted explorers and adventurers seeking freedom at the edge of the world. From Alaska’s freezing glaciers to Australia’s sweltering outback, these untamed regions require ingenuity, perseverance, and community to survive. With a toast to that spirit, we enter the Royal Melbourne Australian International Beer Awards.

To win the Champion Brewery award, beers entered in the competition must exhibit outstanding quality. This year, three 49th State beers received individual honors. Golden Dall, our Belgian Tripel, earned a Gold Medal in the Belgian Tripel category. Nitro McCarthy Stout took home a Silver Medal in the Dry Irish Stout category, and Smōk, our smoked lager, also earned a Silver Medal. This brings our number of international accolades for our beer quality to twenty and our Australian International Beer Awards to eight. 

We craft our beer with a deep respect for brewing tradition and a respect for Alaska—its rugged landscapes, bold spirit, and tight-knit community. These awards reflect the passion and hard work of our brewing team, and the support we’ve received from the great people who walk through our doors every day.

Thank you for being part of our journey. We’re proud to share a taste of Alaska with the world.

About the Australian International Beer Awards