Pilsners, known as one of the purest beer styles, are often the first choice for brewers to showcase their skills. Brewed in a variety of styles including German, American, Italian, and Bohemian, these beers are regarded for their craft and subtle complexities. According to Dow Scoggins, founder of the U.S. Open Beer Championship, "Brewing pilsners takes more time, and flaws are harder to hide."

At the recent U.S. Open Beer Championship, which is among the largest beer competitions in the U.S., pilsners were a significant focus. This year, over 8,000 beverages were submitted, with pilsners evaluated across five subcategories. Only gold, silver, and bronze medals are awarded in each category, highlighting the competitive nature of these awards.

The winners of the best pilsners for 2025 include:

• American-Style Pilsner: Bullpen – Atlas Brew Works – Washington, D.C.
• Bohemian-Style Pilsner: Quiet Light – Nine Giant Brewing – Ohio
• German-Style Pilsner: An Honest Man – New Berlin Brewing Company – Ohio
• International-Style Pilsner: Famosa – Cervecería Centro Americana S.A. – Guatemala
• Italian Pilsner: Antico – Geisthaus Brewing Company – California

Many of the top pilsners are produced by breweries with limited distribution, often making it necessary to visit these locations to sample the award-winning beers. For those unable to travel, contacting the breweries directly might provide options for purchasing or finding their beers locally.

Freshness is critical for these beverages, emphasizing the advantage of enjoying a freshly brewed beer at a local brewery. Moreover, many exceptional beers, not showcased in competitions, can be discovered in various breweries, adding to the excitement for enthusiasts seeking unique flavors.