Episode 653 – U.S. Open Beer Championship Illinois Winners 2026

The U.S. Open Beer Championship, started in 2009, is the third-largest competition that recognizes and rewards beers from all over the world – and this year, Illinois brewers collected a considerable amount of hardware. We drink through five medal-winning beers while talking about the competition itself and looking back on some past years’ winners as well. Also, Craig is thrust into an awkward “you-make-the-call” situation; Ryan recaps his U.S.O.B.C. mini-taproom tour, and we want to know exactly what makes a beer “extreme.”

ABV Chicago Episode 653 – U.S. Open Beer Championship Illinois Winners 2026

Beers Reviewed

Mikerphone Brewing – Misty Mountain Hop (Gold in American Pale Ale)

Forbidden Root Brewing Company/Ology Brewing Co. – Sprinkles Required (Gold in Collaboration Beer)

Flipside Brewing – Monochrome Dream (Bronze in New England/Juicy/Hazy IPA)

Brothership Brewing – Exoplanet (Silver in West Coast Style IPA)

Werk Force Brewing Co. – Humongous Chungus (Silver in Barrel-Aged Strong Stout/Porter Specialty)