Vienna Brewery Scores Awards In 2022 Virginia Craft Beer Cup

VIENNA, VA — Vienna and Merrifield's Caboose Brewing Company and Sweetwater Tavern scored several awards in the 2022 Virginia Craft Beer Cup, announced by the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild Monday.

The Virginia Craft Beer Cup is the largest state competition of its kind in the U.S., allowing breweries to compete, get feedback from judges and win statewide recognition to help their brands. A record 106 breweries in Virginia participated this year, including 14 new participants. Breweries could submit up to four beers for judging in 33 categories.

"It was clearly evident in the tight race that every brewery is extremely dedicated to the craft and their dedication is inspiring," said head judge Charlie Harr in a statement. "This year’s competition proves Virginia has some of the best craft brewers in the nation."

Caboose Brewing Company won three awards: first place in the Amber Lagers category for its Vienna Lager, first place in the International Lager category for its Bienvenidos Mexican Lager, and first place in the Pilsner category for its Das Gut. Caboose Brewing Company also earned an honorable mention in the Brown Ale category for its Boxcar Brown.

Great American Restaurants' Sweetwater Tavern, which has locations in Merrifield, Centreville and Sterling, won first place in the Strong Ale category for its Bishops Pass Ale and second place in the Dark European Lagers category for its Rusty Roadrunner Lager,

The competition took place at Old Ox Brewery in Ashburn. Competition winners also receive media, retail marketing and tourism opportunities, including a Cup Winner Beer Trail, digital medals for labels and retail displays.

A full list of 2022 Virginia Craft Beer Cup winners is available here.

Caboose Brewing Company is no stranger to the competition, earning six medals since opening. The Vienna brewery was opened in Vienna by the McLaughlin and Greer families in 2015. The Caboose Commons location in Merrifield was opened in 2018.

Sweetwater Tavern also won four awards in recent years. The Great Americans Restaurants eatery offers various beers from its brewery at its three locations.

August is Virginia Craft Beer Month, so it's an opportune time to stop in to Caboose Brewing Company or Sweetwater Tavern to have a cold one.