StillFire Brewing has once again proven itself a standout in the craft beer scene, taking home top honors at the 2025 Georgia Brew Battle held at this year’s Suwanee Beer Fest — recently named Best Beer Festival in the Country by USA Today.

The Suwanee-based brewery clinched the title with their fan-favorite Black Mask Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout, a bold and complex brew that continues to rake in recognition. Already the recipient of a 2019 Bronze at the U.S. Open Beer Championship and the title of Best Strong Beer in Georgia at the 2021 Atlanta Strong Beer Fest, Black Mask now adds “2025 Georgia Brew Battle Champion” to its growing list of accolades.

“Winning this award always means so much to us,” says StillFire Brewmaster Phil Farrell.
“We know how many Georgia breweries show up, prepare, and serve delicious beer at this event every year, so we never take a win for granted. We might be
the hometown brewery, but it’s truly anyone’s game.”

Suwanee Beer Fest’s Georgia Brew Battle is a unique, multi-tiered competition that blends public opinion with expert evaluation. Festival-goers each receive a voting token upon entry, which they cast for their favorite brew as they sample from tents across the park. The top five crowd favorites then advance to a blind tasting round judged by a panel of seasoned beer experts, ensuring a balanced selection process that celebrates both community choice and craftsmanship.

This year’s contest was especially competitive, with The Lost Druid’s Shadow Stalker American Double IPA earning second place, and Elixir Brewing’s Blackthorn Caramel Macchiato Stout taking third. “Battling against such talented and notable breweries is one of the coolest aspects of this business,” adds Farrell. “I get to spend most of my days creating an awesome product with the most amazing team… it’s nice to know there’s an entire community made up of people who love and appreciate the craft as much as we do.”

StillFire’s Brewing victory at Suwanee Beer Fest is more than just another win — it’s a celebration of community. “The support we’ve received since day one has been incredible,” says Farrell. “Winning awards like these — that rely so heavily on the people’s vote — means so much, even after almost six years.”