Nara Brewing Wins Gold Medals in Two Categories at the 'World Beer Cup 2026'

Gold medal-winning "FUNCTION" and "LIGHTHOUSE" "FUNCTION" and "LIGHTHOUSE", brewed and sold by Nara Brewing Co., Ltd. (Location: Nara City, Nara Prefecture; Representative Director: Yasunori Namioka), won gold medals in two categories at the "World Beer Cup 2026", often referred to as the Olympics of the beer world, held in the United States on Thursday, April 23, 2026 (Japan time). "FUNCTION" won in the American-Belgo-Style Ale category, and "LIGHTHOUSE" won in the Session Beer category. This is the first time Japan has won gold in the Session Beer category, and also the first time this medal has gone to a country outside the United States. Furthermore, achieving simultaneous gold medals in multiple categories as a Japanese brewery is a remarkable feat not seen in 16 years, since 2010. ■ Representative's Comment One of our goals since we started brewing at Nara Brewing in 2018 was to make the best beer in the world. We have been bounced back by the high global wall many times, but we have finally achieved that goal. The real thrill of this contest is that, regardless of production scale, breweries from all over the world can compete on quality under the common denominator of 'beer'. Without resting on our laurels from this award, we will continue our efforts to deliver even higher quality beer to everyone. Yasunori Namioka, Representative Director, Nara Brewing Co., Ltd. ■ What is the World Beer Cup? The World Beer Cup is the world's most prestigious beer competition hosted by the Brewers Association in the United States. Established in 1996, it is often referred to as the 'Olympics of the beer world' as the most authoritative beer contest. At the 2026 competition, 8,166 beer brands from 50 countries around the world entered. A panel of 255 expert judges chosen from 38 countries evaluated the entries via blind tasting across more than 100 style categories. Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals are awarded for each category, but if quality standards are not met, medals may not be awarded; therefore, winning is a testament to the brewery's technical prowess. ■ Introduction of the Award-Winning Beers American-Belgo-Style Ale Category: Gold Medal FUNCTION [Beer Name] FUNCTION [Style] American-Belgo-Style Ale [Award Category] American-Belgo-Style Ale Category [Award Medal] Gold [ABV] 6.0% [IBU] 24 [Volume] 350ml (Can) *Kegs are also sold to restaurants. [Detail URL] https://narabrewing.com/beer/function One of Nara Brewing's staple products. As the name 'American-Belgo-Style Ale' suggests, it is a hoppy saison that fuses American and Belgian styles. Through the combination of Belgian yeast and American hops, the finish allows you to enjoy a refreshing yet complex hop aroma. With scents reminiscent of citrus and white grapes, and a non-bitter mouthfeel, it is a glass that is easy to pick up even for craft beer beginners. Session Beer Category: Gold Medal LIGHTHOUSE [Beer Name] LIGHTHOUSE [Style] Micro Porter [Award Category] Session Beer Category [Award Medal] Gold [ABV] 3.0% [IBU] 18 [Volume] 350ml (Nitro Can) [Detail URL] https://narabrewing.com/beer/lighthouse A micro porter developed under the concept of 'rich drinking experience even with low alcohol'. By combining multiple types of roasted malt, we achieved a fragrant aroma reminiscent of cacao and coffee, and a multi-layered flavor. As the temperature rises, a nutty aroma akin to almonds also appears. The 350ml can features a nitro (nitrogen-filled) specification; by shaking it before pouring, you can enjoy a creamy foam and a smooth mouthfeel. It also won a Silver medal in the Dark Beer (Class 1) at the INTERNATIONAL BREWING AWARDS 2026 held in the UK.