Vacancy Brewing Takes Home Gold at 2025 World Beer Cup

Vacancy Brewing, a South Austin brewery known for approachable craft beers and neighborhood hospitality, has won a Gold Award at the prestigious 2025 World Beer Cup®, the most competitive beer competition in the world. The award was given in the American-Style Lager category for their flagship beer, Vacancy Classic.

Often referred to as “The Olympics of Beer,” the World Beer Cup is organized by the Brewers Association and judged by an international panel of experts. This year’s competition included over 8,000 entries from 49 countries, making the gold award a global honor.

“This is an incredible milestone - not just for Vacancy Brewing, but for Texas craft beer and the community that’s supported us from the beginning,” said Brent Watson, Co-Founder and Head Brewer. “The American-Style Lager category is all about approachability and balance, qualities we strive for in everything we do. To have that commitment recognized on a global stage is the kind of honor most brewers dream about.”

Vacancy Classic is everything a great American-style lager should be: crisp, clean, and perfectly balanced. Brewed with premium ingredients and traditional technique, it’s the kind of beer you reach for again and again - enjoyed by everyday drinkers and craft connoisseurs alike.

Since 2021, Vacancy Brewing has been a hidden gem in South Austin’s St. Elmo district, beloved for their easy-drinking lagers, creative community events, and their warm, welcoming taproom. With this award, Vacancy proves that world-class beer is being brewed right in the heart of South Austin.

“This award is proof that some of the best beers in the world are coming from small neighborhood breweries with big passion,” said Watson. 

Vacancy Classic is currently on draft and available in cans to-go at the Vacancy Brewing Taproom (415 E St Elmo Rd 1-D2). The beer can be found on draft the following bars and restaurants across Austin: Sagebrush, Maie Day, Toss Pizzeria & Pub, Loro (South Lamar & Domain North Side), Whip In, Cedar Door, East Austin Hotel, Double Trouble, Hole in the Wall, Austin’s Pizza Westlake, & Hopfields.

About Vacancy Brewing: Located in the warehouse district along St. Elmo Road, Vacancy Brewing has become known for their crisp, easy-drinking lagers since opening in 2021. Owners Brent and Sara Watson combine their background in the Beer and Hospitality world to curate a unique experience at Vacancy Brewing. With a nod to his years at Trumer Pils in Berkeley CA, Head Brewer Brent Watson has crafted a menu that is both approachable and rooted in traditional brewing techniques. In addition to the rotating lineup of seasonal beers in the South Austin taproom, you can find Vacancy favorites such as June (Hill Country Pilsner) and Vacancy Classic (American Lager) at bars and restaurants across Austin.

For more information, visit vacancybrewing.com