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- calendar_today October 30, 2026
Robin Shepard’s National Recognition in Beer Writing
Longtime Isthmus beer writer Robin Shepard has recently achieved notable national recognition, celebrating both the success of his favorite baseball team and his accomplishments as a beer author. Shepard, a dedicated Brewers fan, has been reporting on beer culture and the beer industry for Isthmus since 2001.
Award-Winning Beer Story
The North American Guild of Beer Writers (NAGBW) honored Shepard for his work in beer journalism. His story focused on Giant Jones Brewing’s collaboration with State Line Distillery to develop a barrel-aging program, highlighting the innovation within the beer industry. This beer story secured third place in the short-form writing category, a competition that includes major publications and international writers from various countries.
Reflecting on his recognition, Shepard expressed satisfaction in being acknowledged in a category that features work from larger publications and beer writers across the globe.
Book Award for ‘A Keg of Their Best’
In addition to his award for beer writing, Robin Shepard’s book, A Keg of Their Best, earned second prize in the best beer books category for 2026. The book was recognized as the best U.S. beer book by an American author and publisher this year. First place in this category went to British beer writer Matthew Curtis for his book, Manchester’s (England) Best Beer Pubs and Bars.
The recognition highlights Shepard’s significant role as a beer author within both national and international beer culture.
North American Guild of Beer Writers Awards
The annual NAGBW awards celebrate excellence in beer journalism and beverage writing. For 2026, more than 250 entries were submitted by authors, writers, journalists, historians, podcasters, and professors. The competition featured submissions from the U.S., Canada, and 11 other countries across four continents, reflecting the global influence of the beer industry.
The NAGBW recognizes outstanding contributions in 18 categories, underscoring the diversity and depth of beer writing and beer culture around the world.
Shepard’s Ongoing Contribution to Beer Journalism
Since 2001, Robin Shepard has been a consistent presence in beer journalism for Isthmus, offering insights into the evolving beer industry, reporting on new breweries, and sharing stories about beer innovation. His latest recognitions affirm his impact not only as a beer writer but also as a respected voice in beer recognition and culture.
About the Author
Shepard’s recent accomplishments add to his longstanding commitment to chronicling the stories and developments in the world of beer. As both a Brewers fan and leading beer journalist, his work continues to contribute greatly to beer writing and the appreciation of beer as part of American and global culture.
Source: isthmus.com.
