At the Dutch Craft Beer Conference in ’s-Hertogenbosch, the CRAFT Awards were presented for the second time. These awards recognise dedication, passion, and craftsmanship in the beer industry. They honour breweries, brewers, and key individuals who promote locally and independently brewed beer.
To ensure fairness, CRAFT members voted online, selecting winners in three categories. Each category featured five nominees. This voting process guarantees that the awards reflect the appreciation of fellow brewers.
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Brewer of the Year at CRAFT Awards 2025
In the Brewer of the Year category, Gijs Troost from Gooische Bierbrouwerij claimed the top prize. His peers admire his skills, calling him an award-winning brewer. Over the years, his brewery has won numerous international medals.
Troost does not follow trends – he sets them. He reinterprets classic beer styles, adding a personal twist. He also experiments with local ingredients like buckwheat from the Gooi region. His creative vision makes his beers truly unique.
Receiving the award, Troost expressed his gratitude. “I am thrilled by this recognition. It proves our brewing team’s commitment to making beers we fully support.” His passion and expertise clearly inspire others.
The winners did not just gain industry recognition. They also received an impressive trophy shaped like a huge beer bottle. Additionally, they earned a free CRAFT membership and complimentary entry to next year’s Dutch Craft Beer Conference.
About CRAFT Brouwers
CRAFT Brouwers organises the Dutch Craft Beer Conference and the CRAFT Awards. It represents independent Dutch breweries and promotes collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing. Through events like this, CRAFT connects brewers, suppliers, and experts, strengthening the future of Dutch craft beer. By supporting quality and independence, CRAFT ensures that Dutch brewing continues to thrive.