News of craft brewing’s continued growth in 2006 certainly is reason to raise a toast, and brewpubs on the whole are reflecting the trend as consumer interest in craft beer rises.

For the first time in years, the microbrewery category was the top performer in the high-flying craft brewing segment of the U.S. beer market, up 17% overall.

Last year’s 12% growth rate for the craft beer category is impressive enough, but 14 regional craft breweries reported growth of at least 23% in 2006.

With its back once firmly pressed to the mat, the American beer market is back up and steadying itself, with overall numbers up 2% for the year.

Fueled by news of the industry’s 12-percent growth and an inspiring keynote address from Vinnie Cilurzo, the Craft Brewers Conference in Austin April 18-20 was a hit.