Father’s Day is right around the corner, and this year we have a few extra reasons to celebrate. Over the past year, we’ve been fortunate to see both our beers and our people recognized with some meaningful awards. While we’re always honored when our beers earn medals, we’re just as proud to see the individuals behind those beers receive recognition for their contributions to the craft brewing community. As we look ahead to Father’s Day, we’re reflecting on the people who help shape traditions, share knowledge, and bring people together. In many ways, that’s what great beer does too.

Celebrating the People Behind the Beer 

This past April, our Founding Brewmaster Mark Ruedrich and CEO Jennifer Owen traveled to the Brewers Cup of California in Sacramento, where Mark was honored as the 2026 Craft Beer Pioneer!

Anyone who has spent time around North Coast Brewing Co. knows how much of Mark’s creativity, curiosity, and passion comes out in the beers we brew. From beloved staples like Old Rasputin to distinctive offerings like Old Stock Ale, his influence is woven throughout our brewery’s identity.

Mark has spent decades exploring brewing traditions, refining recipes, and sharing his knowledge with both fellow brewers and beer drinkers alike. The 2026 Craft Beer Pioneer recognition celebrates that impact, and we’re proud to see it acknowledged.

Father’s Day is often a time to recognize the people who pass things down: a skill, a tradition, or simply an appreciation for gathering around a table with family and friends. Mark has played that kind of role for North Coast Brewing Co., shaping the brewery and the beers our community has come to know and love.

 

Old Stock Ale Earns More Recognition 

One of those beers is Old Stock Ale, which recently earned a Silver Medal in the English Strong category that same night at the Brewers Cup of California. This recognition follows another Silver Medal at the 2025 International Beer Cup Japan, making it back-to-back years of international and regional recognition for one of our standout brews.

Old Stock Ale is a rich, malt-forward Old Ale with layers of warming complexity. It’s a beer that rewards slowing down and taking your time with it, and we’re excited to see it continue earning recognition from judges both close to home and abroad.

 

Old Rasputin Takes Gold 

Meanwhile, Old Rasputin recently brought home a Gold Medal in the Imperial Stout category at the California State Fair Commercial Beer Competition! For many NCBC fans, Old Rasputin needs no introduction. Born from Mark’s desire to bring Russian Imperial Stout to the United States, it has developed a loyal following over the years for good reason. Its rich roasted character, big complex flavors and warming finish have made it a favorite among dark beer lovers near and far.

While Old Rasputin is no stranger to gold medals, this latest recognition is a reminder of what has made the beer a favorite for so many years: rich flavor, thoughtful craftsmanship, and a character that stands the test of time.

 

Celebrate Dad with Award-Winning Beer 

If you’re looking for a Father’s Day beer, both of these award-winning brews are excellent choices. Old Stock Ale has long been a favorite since we first brewed it in 2000, and it’s much more than holiday beer. With its rich malt character and warming complexity, Old Stock Ale makes a great companion to replace whiskey throughout the year. It’s perfect for those quiet evenings, celebrating a milestone, or any moment that calls for slowing down and savoring something special.

Old Rasputin is another excellent Father’s Day companion, especially for dads who appreciate darker beers with roasted malt character. It is beautifully paired with hearty slow-cooked beef dishes and rich desserts, making it right at home at many Father’s Day celebrations.

For the dad who enjoys trying something new, Barrel-Aged Old Rasputin offers a memorable twist on a familiar favorite. The addition of time and oak transforms the beer in fascinating ways, adding layers of depth and character that highlight how a great beer can continue to evolve. If Dad is already a fan of barrel-aged beers or even whiskey, Barrel-Aged Old Rasputin makes a memorable gift and a great excuse to raise a glass together.

If you’re planning a Father’s Day celebration, Barrel Aged Old Rasputin is available in our brewery shop or check out our beer locator to find it in your neighborhood. And if this is your first venture into the world of barrel-aged beer (or you’re looking for a way to impress Dad with a little beer knowledge) be sure to check out our previous blog post exploring the barrel-aging process and the unique flavors it brings to every bottle.

 

Here’s to the People Who Bring Us Together 

Awards are always gratifying, but what matters most to us is sharing great beer with our community. As Father’s Day approaches, we’re grateful for the people who inspire us, teach us, and create the traditions we look forward to year after year. Whether you’re celebrating with a father, a mentor, a friend, or simply gathering with people you care about, we hope you’ll have the chance to raise a glass together.

And if that glass happens to contain an award-winning Old Stock Ale or Old Rasputin, all the better. Cheers!