Kueka Brewing, the first microbrewery situated on picturesque Kueka Lake in upstate New York, achieved one of its highest honors this past week when it was named the Best Brewery in New York at the TAP New York Craft Beer and Food Festival. It is the first major award for this small craft brewery and owner Richard Musso couldn’t be prouder.
“This came as a total, but pleasant surprise”, said Musso. “Our beers were up against some stiff competition. Having our beer named the top craft beer in New York State in 2014 is a testament to the hard work we’ve put in for six years.”
TAP New York Craft Beer and Food Festival started in 1997 and it has selected the Best Brewery in New York since 2001. The winner receives the F.X. Matt Memorial Cup. Winning isn’t easy, as each beer is subjected to the strict taste expectations of a panel of judges, all of whom sample each beer in a blind taste test. To keep things moving- and better ensure the judges can still walk a straight line afterward- each brewery is limited to three beers in the competition.
Kueka Brewing entered its Local Mocha Chocolate Coffee Stout, Old Urbana Imperial Amber Rye, and Hoppy Laker India Pale Ale in the competition. These three varied styles scored enough points from the judges to award Kueka Brewing the Best Brewery in New York crown.
“It’s an absolute honor to win this award. We have worked very hard to craft these recipes and it is wonderful to know they can compete with the other amazing beers New York breweries have to offer. We are just elated to be able to display this award in our tasting hall”, said Mark Russo, son of owners Richard and Linda Musso.
Kueka Brewing is located in Hammondsport, New York and it presents wine lovers with a malt beverage alternative as they visit the many wineries that call the Finger Lakes area home. For more information on this world- class brewing operation, visit Kueka Brewing on the internet at kuekabrewingcompany.com.
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