Tom Edwards, one of the proprietors of Old Caz Brewery, recounted a recent weekend shift when he was tinkering about the brewery. During this time, he received a message from his former manager that brought exciting news: Old Caz had secured second place in one of the nation’s most esteemed beer competitions for their flagship creation.

The One Way IPA received a silver medal in the American-style India Pale Ale category at the Great American Beer Festival, which took place from October 10-12 in Denver, Colorado. Edwards describes the accolades as akin to “the Olympics” for brewers.

“That kind of recognition puts breweries on the map,” noted Edwards.

Reflecting on the brewery’s early days in 2018, Edwards explained that he and co-founder Bryan Rangel were operating on a tight budget, often renting equipment in Redding to brew their beer.

During the production of their first-ever batch of flagship IPA, the Carr Fire erupted, forcing many residents near Redding to evacuate. Upon learning about the fire, Edwards and Rangel hopped into a one-way U-Haul and drove to Redding to rescue their beer, which ultimately inspired its distinct name.

Since their inception, the brewery has opened two venues in Rohnert Park, with their latest establishment at SOMA Village.

Edwards expressed his amazement at the recognition their brewery received, stating that it was beyond anything he had ever dreamed to win with their flagship IPA. The competition received over 9,000 beer submissions across various categories.

“I can’t remember the last time three Sonoma breweries were honored with a medal in this competition,” Edwards remarked.

Two other breweries from Santa Rosa also earned medals at this year’s competition. Russian River Brewing Co. received a bronze for its Belgian-style sour ale, Intinction – Petite Sirah, while Moonlight Brewing Co. took home a gold medal for its Bohemian-style pilsner named Reality Czeck-style Pilsner.

According to Edwards, these accolades hold significant value for local brewers and underscore the dedication they pour into their craft.

“We have some truly remarkable breweries making great strides, and it’s one of the finest places in the country to enjoy beer,” Edwards remarked.

You can contact Staff Writer Melanie Nguyen at 707-521-5457 or melanie.nguyen@pressdemocrat.com. On X (Twitter) @mellybelly119