Cape Fear Breweries earn awards at 2026 North Carolina Brewers Cup

NORTH CAROLINA (WWAY) — Several breweries in the Cape Fear region received awards at the 2026 North Carolina Brewers Cup Competition.

Award-winning breweries include Brunswick Beer and Cider, Waterline Brewing Co., Salty Turtle Beer Company, Wilmington Brewing Company, Mad Mole Brewing LLC, Outer Dunes Brewing Company, Leland Brewing Co., Flytrap Brewing, Cape Side Brewing, Wrightsville Beach Brewery and Surf City Brewing Company.

Cape Fear-area breweries also swept the Light International Lager category.

“This year’s impressive showing at the NC Brewers Cup demonstrates the awesome strength and diversity of independent craft breweries across southeastern North Carolina’s coastal region, as we continue to drive economic growth and brewing excellence,” said Rob Robinson of Waterline Brewing.

There are more than 400 breweries across North Carolina, with approximately 20 located in southeastern North Carolina.

The awards highlight the continued presence of Cape Fear-area breweries in North Carolina’s craft beer industry.