GRAND TETON BREWING CO.
430 Old Jackson Hole Highway Victor, ID 83455
208.787.9000 (phone) • 208.787.4114 (fax)
September 28, 2009
GRAND TETON BREWING COMPANY WINS GOLD AT THE GREAT AMERICAN BEER FESTIVAL!
VICTOR, ID - Grand Teton Brewing Company, known throughout the West for their exceptional microbrews, has won yet another gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival (GABF). Sweetgrass IPA won its first GABF gold medal against 107 other entries in the American Pale Ale category, one of the most popular styles in the competition.
Originally brewed in 2002, Sweetgrass IPA quickly became the brewery favorite. Even though this beer has a significant following, it has never before medaled in a major competition. Beer judges have loved and praised the Sweetgrass IPA for its aroma, balance and flavor, but have stated it is not hoppy enough when entered in IPA competitions. When previously entered in pale ale categories, it was considered too hoppy. As the pale ale style has evolved over the last few years to more hoppy brews, Sweetgrass IPA was due to find its place on the podium.
Denver's annual Great American Beer Festival remains the largest commercial beer competition around the world with 3,308 entries this year. The competition attracted 132 international beer judges from ten countries. Award-winning brewers received prestigious gold, silver and bronze medals in 78 beer categories, establishing the best examples of each style in the U.S.
Sweetgrass IPA is crisp and fragrant with a generous, yet smooth hop character. The sweet bouquet and spicy flavor come from the combination of five hops and Idaho grown barley. Bottle conditioned with 58 IBUs and 6.5% ABV, it is a durable beer with a long shelf life. Sweetgrass IPA is available in 6 packs and kegs.