The recent 26th annual Great International Beer, Cider, Mead & Sake Competition unveiled the best lagers of 2024, as judged by a panel of experts in Norwalk, Connecticut. On November 9, judges evaluated 303 entries, awarding top spots across multiple categories, which included six types of lagers as well as pilsners.

This competition is notable for its wide reach, drawing submissions from both local New England breweries and those from around the world. This year’s winners showcased diversity, featuring a lager from Spain, two from Vermont, two from Connecticut, and one from Wisconsin.

While it’s important to note that many exceptional beers might not enter competitions, the praised lagers tend to stand out for their quality. I’ve had the pleasure of tasting two award-winning Connecticut lagers and can confirm their exceptional flavor.

Lagers are experiencing a surge in popularity within the craft beer market. Christopher Sanzeni, head brewer and co-founder of Broken Symmetry in Bethel, Connecticut, shared that lagers have become the second best-selling style at his brewery. Among the winners this year is his dark lager, Midnight.

Here’s a summary of the top lagers from this year’s competition:

Best Helles Lager

Pirate’s Cove Helles, McFleshman’s Brewing, Appleton, WI
This light lager, celebrating a bar that once existed on the brewery’s grounds, is grainy and sweet, appealing to both casual drinkers and adventurous spirits.

Best Lager: Continental Dortmunder

Walkin’ The Dog, NewSylum Brewing, Newtown, CT
This German-style pilsner, crafted using Hersbrucker hops, is crisp with a solid malt backbone, making it a neighborhood favorite ideal for dog walkers.

Best Premium Lager

Estrella Damm, S.A. Damm, Barcelona, Spain
Brewed since 1876, this lager is lighter than many central European varieties, designed to complement the Mediterranean climate.

Best Vienna Lager

Vienna, Von Trapp Brewing, Stowe, VT
Known for their exemplary lagers, Von Trapp Brewing offers an Austrian-style amber lager rich in malt flavors, complemented by floral hop notes.

Best Amber/Dark Lager

Trösten, Von Trapp Brewing, Stowe, VT
With a name meaning "comforting," this lager features smoked malts, perfect for cold winter evenings in Vermont.

Best Schwarzbier

Midnight, Broken Symmetry Brewing, Bethel, CT
Despite its stout-like appearance, this midnight lager has a lighter body and offers a crisp, refreshing taste comparable to iced coffee without the cream or sugar.

For more insights on beer rankings, check out other articles from Forbes on the world’s best pilsner and the best IPAs.