World Beer Cup Winners Announced

It's a sign of the times when the World Beer Cup, called the "Olympics of Beer," announces its winners at this year's Craft Beer Conference in Boulder, Colo. As was mentioned during the conference, the world of craft brewing is alive and well.

The World Beer Cup judged nearly 4,000 beers in the blind-tasting competition, with several big and small winners. This year's championship drew in 17 percent more submissions compared to the last championship in 2010. Out of the 95 style categories — with categories in "chocolate beer," "gluten-free beer," and more — the American Style IPA category had a record 150 entries.

Among the winners for Champion Breweries and Brew Masters? Brauerei Michael Plank by brewmaster Michael Plank in Germany, California's Firestone Walker Brewing Company, and Anheuser-Busch, home to Stella Artois, Budweiser, and Becks brews.

Another big-name winner: MillerCoors, with nine awards from the World Beer Cup. Names like Blue Moon and Coors Light won gold and silvers, including brands from its own craft beer division, Tenth and Blake.

Click here to see the full list of winners from the 2012 World Beer Cup.