Each year, we collect the highest-scoring beers evaluated in the Official Review and compile them into a definitive list of the finest examples. 2024 was a terrific year for brewing, and we’ve collected the best of the best in the world of beer for you to delve into.
2024 marked a major shift in consumer trends when it comes to beer consumption, as non-alcoholic beers exploded in popularity and hop fatigue seemed to set in, as IPAs tumbled and lagers rose to prominence. Despite those broad stroke takes, 2024 was an amazing year for our Official Review.
A staggering 14 beers achieved our vaunted World Class rating, which tied the record for most beers with scores above 96. A plethora of styles represent our world-class beers, but lagers make up an impressive four selections, with fruit lambics, IPAs, pale ales and specialty wood-aged beers also present among our top beers of the year, alongside many more top-tier examples of brewing excellence. These are just a few of the multitude of beer styles found within, so read on to explore the Top 100 Beers of 2024. Cheers!
ABOUT THE OFFICIAL REVIEW
The Official Review is conducted in a single-blind tasting format that adheres to the Beer Judge Certification Program 2021 Style Guidelines. This method provides the best opportunity to rely on facts and to avoid favoritism, ensuring a level playing field for all brewers. It serves both the industry and the consumer to have unbiased and objective scores from qualified experts.
In an effort to provide the most credible evaluations, The Beer Connoisseur hand-selects judges with a minimum BJCP ranking of “National” or Master Cicerone®. Judges are required to work with an assistant that handles beer prior to evaluation, and breweries are not allowed to solicit judges directly.
In the single-blind tasting format, judges are presented with a chilled, properly poured beer and given its style category. Scoring is then done on the following basis using a 100-point scale: Aroma (24 points), Appearance (6 points), Flavor (40 points), Mouthfeel (10 points) and Overall Impression (20 points).
The score breakdown is as follows:
100 to 96: World Class – You need this beer in your life.
95 to 91: Exceptional – Don’t hesitate.
90 to 86: Very Good – A brew to savor.
85 to 75: Average – Somewhat unimpressive.
74 and below: Not Recommended – Just walk away.
