Skunkworks Lounge at CBC

Brewing Competition Powered by Abstrax

2026 Best in Show

Reformation Brewery

Who will topple the reigning champions?

Reformation Brewery took home the crown in 2026 with Tangerine Steam. Do you have what it takes to take home the crown?

What is Skunkworks?

Skunkworks is an annual beer competition hosted by Abstrax.

It all starts with an open call – any brewery can enter Round 1 with a beer made using Abstrax hops and flavors. A panel narrows it down to six finalists, who then face off live at CBC. Beers are poured side-by-side, the crowd votes, and one champion walks away with $5,000 and serious bragging rights.

It’s big flavor, bigger fun, and one hell of a party.

Why Enter?

FREE EXPOSURE

Finalists have their beer poured live for thousands of industry professionals and consumers at CBC 2026 in Philadelphia.

INNOVATION CREDIBILITY

Making it to the Skunkworks Finals isn’t just bragging rights, it’s proof your brewery is shaping the future of flavor. Finalists stand among a select few pushing the limits of creativity, technology, and taste. At this level, you’re not just brewing beer, you’re leading the revolution.

NATIONAL PRESS

Finalists are spotlighted through Abstrax’s media channels and press coverage surrounding the event.

CASH + TROPHY

The winning brewery earns $5,000 and the coveted Skunkworks trophy.

Watch the 2026 competition in action

After blind-judging 45 beers across three rounds, the Abstrax Hops Skunkworks judging panel — led by one of just 28 Master Cicerones in the world — has selected the five breweries heading to the Craft Brewers Conference 2026 in Philadelphia.

How it Works

OPEN SUBMISSIONS

Think your beer has what it takes to redefine flavor? Enter our competition for a chance to showcase your craft at CBC.

How to Enter:

Submit your beer details by December 12th using the entry form.
Deliver your beer to Abstrax by January 15th.

Our team will select the top six beers based on overall impression - with a special focus on the most innovative use of Abstrax products.

FINAL ROUND AT CBC

The six finalists will compete live at CBC for the ultimate flavor showdown.

RULES

Each entry must include at least one Abstrax product from any collection.

Only one beer submission per brewery is allowed.
All submissions must be delivered to Abstrax by January 15th. (minimun 9 cans recommended for submission)

NOTIFY ME ABOUT 2027

Previous Contenders