Big cheers are in order for Hopsized Brewing Co. after the local craft brewery brought home a gold medal at the prestigious 2026 World Beer Cup – earning the title of Best Blonde Ale in the World for its beer, Chargie
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Known throughout the brewing industry as the “Olympics of Beer,” the World Beer Cup is one of the largest and most respected beer competitions on the planet, drawing entries from breweries across the globe. In the Blonde Ale category alone, 86 beers competed this year, with Chargie taking home the gold medal over breweries from around the world.
For Southwest Florida craft beer fans, it’s a huge moment and proof that world-class beer is being brewed right here in our backyard.
From Homebrew to A Globally Recognized Ale
Founded by husband-and-wife duo Ana and Darlyn “Vic” Rodriguez, Hopsized Brewing Co. started the same way many beloved craft breweries do: with homebrewing in a garage. After relocating to Southwest Florida from Miami, Vic began experimenting with brewing in 2019, quickly winning local homebrewing competitions before opening Hopsized in Bonita Springs just a few years later.
Since opening, the brewery has built a loyal following for its approachable yet creative craft beers, welcoming atmosphere, and community-focused events. The brewery was also named Best Small Brewery in Florida in 2023, adding another major accolade to its growing list of honors.
Now, Chargie has officially put Bonita Springs on the international craft beer map. The award-winning beer earned gold in the Golden or Blonde Ale category, beating out nationally recognized breweries including Saint Arnold Brewing Co. from Texas, which took silver.
Time to Celebrate
To celebrate the massive win, Hopsized Brewing Co. is hosting its Chargie Gold Celebration on Saturday, May 16. Beer lovers, locals, and curious first-timers are all invited to raise a glass to the hometown brewery that just earned worldwide recognition.
If you haven’t visited Hopsized yet, this might be the perfect excuse!
Time to Cheers! Enter our giveaway!
To celebrate Hopsized Brewing Co. bringing home GOLD at the World Beer Cup for the best blonde ale in the world with their beloved Chargie Ale, we’re teaming up for an awesome local giveaway!
One lucky winner will receive:
• A brewery tour & tasting experience
• A beach swag bag
• Chargie Ale goodies & more!
We love celebrating local businesses doing incredible things on a world stage, and this is a huge win for Southwest Florida craft beer. 🍺
👉 Head to our Facebook or Instagram post to enter to win!
We’ll be announcing the winner Saturday morning before Chargie Day begins! Good luck, and cheers to local craft beer!
