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Restaurants & Bars

Double Clutch Brewery Wins Silver at Great American Beer Festival

Evanston-based brewery earns national recognition at the 2024 Great American Beer Festival and celebrates a Bronze win at The World Beer Cup

Award-winning Altbier
Award-winning Altbier (Image Credit | Vandalay Brands)

Evanston, IL (Nov. 13, 2024) – Double Clutch Brewery is proud to announce that its Altbier has earned a silver medal at the 2024 Great American Beer Festival (GABF) held in Denver, Colorado.

This latest achievement follows the brewery’s earlier success at The World Beer Cup® 2024, where the Altbier was awarded a bronze medal, further cementing its reputation for excellence in the craft beer industry.

The GABF, the premier beer competition in the United States, recognizes outstanding brewing in a variety of styles from breweries nationwide. Winning a medal at this prestigious event is a mark of excellence and dedication to craft. The World Beer Cup®, known as "The Olympics of Beer Competitions," is equally distinguished, drawing competitors from around the globe and showcasing the best of international brewing.

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Double Clutch Brewery’s Altbier, a classic German-style amber ale, was awarded the silver medal in the German-style Altbier category at the GABF, a style known for its balance of malt complexity and crisp finish. This comes after earning a bronze at The World Beer Cup® in the same year, reflecting Brewmaster Scott Frank’s dedication to traditional brewing methods inspired by Düsseldorf, Germany, combined with his personal touch that resonates with both judges and beer enthusiasts alike.

“It’s the year of the Altbier,” said Frank. “It’s always been one of my favorite styles to brew, and we’re thrilled to bring not just one, but two medals back to Evanston this year. It’s an honor to share these accomplishments with our community and showcase our passion for great beer.”

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Brewmaster Scott Frank has always held a special affinity for Altbier, which, alongside Kölsch, was one of the first beers he brewed and one of the initial offerings from Double Clutch Brewery.

Frank's passion for these classic German-style beers is fueled not only by their distinctive flavors but also by the storied rivalry between them. This competition dates back centuries and reflects the cultural pride of Düsseldorf and Cologne, two neighboring cities in Germany. Altbier, originating from Düsseldorf, is celebrated for its darker, malt-forward profile with a crisp finish, while Kölsch, from Cologne, is known for its lighter, pale ale characteristics.

The rivalry between these styles embodies spirited local pride, with residents of each city staunchly defending their preferred brew. Frank embraces this historical rivalry, channeling its tradition and passion into his brewing process to create beers that respect their origins while captivating modern palates.

This accolade adds to Double Clutch Brewery’s growing list of achievements since opening in 2021, including:

  • Silver Medal at the Great American Beer Festival (Altbier, 2024)
  • Bronze Winner at The World Beer Cup® (Altbier, 2024)
  • Silver Medal at the Great American Beer Festival (Helles Rauchbier, 2023)
  • Brewery of the Year (0 - 250 Barrels) award at the Great American Beer Festival (2022)
  • Brewer of the Year (0 - 250 Barrels) award at the Great American Beer Festival (2022)
  • Silver Medal at the Great American Beer Festival (Helles Rauchbier, 2022)
  • Silver Medal at the Great American Beer Festival (Helles Lager, 2022)

Located at 2121 Ashland Ave. in Evanston, Double Clutch Brewery has become known for its energetic atmosphere, commitment to German brewing traditions, and a rotating selection of meticulously crafted beers.

For more information about Double Clutch Brewery and to learn more about their award-winning beers, visit www.doubleclutchbrewing.com.

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About Double Clutch Brewery


Double Clutch Brewery is a craft brewery and restaurant located in Evanston, Illinois, specializing in German-style beers and classic car-inspired decor. Since opening in 2021, the brewery has quickly gained recognition for its traditional brewing techniques, warm hospitality, and commitment to quality. Head Brewer Scott Frank leads the charge with a dedication to producing clean, balanced, and innovative beers that celebrate the best of brewing craftsmanship.

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