Evangelos Gletsos

New Mexico, United States

How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?

While sunbathing in Boulder, Colorado, in 1994, I’d heard an ad for the GABF and thought, “Man, I’d love to go to that!” Within four months I’d taken up homebrewing. With my degree in chemical engineering, I’d turned homebrewing into a profession (working for the Rock Bottom), and won a GABF medal in 2007. My next step was to become a BJCP certified beer judge. Within a few years, I was accepted to be a GABF judge, and shortly thereafter, a World Beer Cup judge. For me, brewing beer is a multi-millennia art that transcends borders, cultures, languages, races, and religions. It is a common bond that can make friends of strangers in moments, and celebrations magical. Sitting down and having a pint with a companion or a group of friends is one of life’s great pleasures and should be practiced often the world round.

Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?

I judge at the World Beer Cup for many reasons. First and foremost to bring accolades and recognition to the best beers and brewers in the world, period. Furthermore, I like to provide positive feedback to the hardworking brewers out there to make their art the best it can possibly be. My hope is that through their efforts and my feedback, constantly improving quality and flavors are available to more and more beer lovers. I am honored and humbled that I have been given the responsibility to judge the World Beer Cup and take the utmost care to provide the best and most constructive comments back to the brewers. I feel that every medal I’ve ever awarded at the World Beer Cup has been solidly deserved by a brewer that has put a masterpiece on display. Finally, with all honesty and modesty, I REALLY, REALLY LOVE TASTING THE BEST BEERS IN THE WORLD.

Agus Blanco

Madrid, Spain

How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?

My journey began behind the bar, serving patrons and forging connections with both the bartending team and the final drinker. This experience sparked a passion for understanding spirits like whisky and, especially, beer. I saw myself as a bridge between the consumer and the producer, eager to be the door that welcomes people into the world of flavors.

For over a decade, I’ve continuously honed my communication skills in the realms of beer, whisky, and now mezcal. My passion evolved into expertise, allowing me to train both brewers and judges at Lúpulo Digital’s tasting gym. I help them hone their sensory skills to craft and appreciate exceptional beverages. My focus lies in optimizing flavor and aroma profiles for breweries, ensuring their beers capture consumer hearts (and taste buds!).

In 2023, I had the honor of judging prestigious international competitions across the globe, expanding my knowledge of diverse beer styles and trends (Brazil, Germany, South Africa, Belgium, Spain). Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue this journey in 2024 (U.S., Italy, Mexico, etc.).

Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?

Judging at the World Beer Cup was a challenging yet enriching experience. Exchanging knowledge with fellow judges, from all corners of the globe and brewing generations, is truly special. The Brewers Association’s legacy as a craft beer revolution leader makes connecting with these judges even more meaningful. The vast knowledge and diverse perspectives at the WBC have challenged and broadened my understanding of beer. This event highlighted the ever-evolving world of beer, a community brimming with creativity and pushing boundaries. I’m grateful for this experience and excited to see the BA continue fostering innovation and inspiring future generations of beer lovers.

Sylvia Kopp

Berlin, Germany

How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?

As an author, speaker, and teacher on beer culture, beer styles, beer tasting, and the sensory evaluation of hops, I have been a recognized advocate of genuine innovation for 20 years. I am convinced that true creativity, which arises from a connection with one’s core values, will always drive development—unlike fear-driven reactions to economic demands that lead to boredom and stagnation.

I have been a trainer at the BarthHaas Hops Academy since 2019. I founded and directed the Berlin Beer Academy and worked for several years as an ambassador for American craft beer for the Brewers Association across Europe. Throughout my career, I have published numerous books and articles, and I recently co-founded Women4Beverages, a network for women in the industry, at BrauBeviale in Nuremberg. My latest project, a series of video interviews and text portraits, highlights female role models in the beverage industry.

Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?

Judging has been the key to my entry into the world of beer culture. I’m proud to be a long-term judge at both the World Beer Cup and European Beer Star, which I joined when they were the only two major competitions in Europe and America. It’s an honor to be invited back each time. Nowhere else have I learned as much about beer flavors, styles, and global beer cultures as I have at the judging tables of the World Beer Cup. I truly appreciate the discussions and exchanges with international brewers and fellow beer professionals. I always return home with fresh inspiration and new stories to publish in our magazines.

Marco Malaga

How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?

I was born and raised in Lima, Peru. At 15 years of age, a teacher at my high school asked all students what profession they wanted to pursue as grown ups. My answer was “I would like to brew beer.” My teacher replied in disbelief: “And what do you have to study to become a brewer?” My answer was, “I am not sure but I will find out and do it.” My main inspiration was realizing how beer and brewing was an inherent part of society since ancient times. I was later gripped by the science, engineering, and artistic sides of brewing. I started brewing at age 19, graduated as a food engineer at age 23 and have been brewing continuously for 32 years. Beer has allowed me to make a living, travel all over the world, and be part of the amazing world beer community.

Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?

Judging at the World Beer Cup is the utmost honor for a beer professional. Being able to taste the best beers in the world, side by side, and discuss them with some of the most knowledgeable beer professionals in the industry, is an absolute experience. Beer is continuously evolving and the WBC is certainly a place where you see that evolution. As a brewer it helps me understand where the industry is heading and how the boundaries of quality keep getting raised.