The Most Prestigious Beer Competition in the World
Brewery Registration: Closed
About World Beer Cup
The Brewers Association developed the World Beer Cup Competition in 1996 to celebrate the art and science of brewing. Often referred to as “The Olympics of Beer Competitions,” the World Beer Cup is the most prestigious beer competition in the world.
Awards Ceremony
The Venetian Las Vegas
April 24, 2024
Meet Our World Class Judges
Ai Tani
Osaka-shi Kitaku Oyodonaka, Japan
How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?
“Almost 30 years ago, small-scale brewing began in Japan. At that time, imported German and Belgian beers were occasionally available in Japan. Small-scale brewing had begun, but there were few high-quality beers and few good brewers. I decided that I would grow as a professional and spread the word about the existence of high-quality beer in Japan. This is why I entered this industry.
Twelve years ago, I decided just acting as a judge was not enough to advance quality standards, so I started running my own bottle shop and beer pub, selecting good quality beer, and providing it to consumers while maintaining quality. Since five years ago, I have also owned a brewery, and while deepening my awareness of beer, I also improve brewing, sipping and serving skills, and support the management of breweries and restaurants.
Beer has a long history and has recently evolved from technological developments and scientific advances. From the current situation, where Japanese historical food and liquor culture is evolving through beer, we believe that we can find an opportunity to build a new beer culture in Japan.
Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?
Being able to judge at the World Beer Cup, the world’s premier competition, is a source of pride. It is a good opportunity to measure my judging skills.
It was also a great experience how the judges are organized at the World Beer Cup. I believe it is the best competition in the world. The fact that many Japanese have won awards has become a guideline for quality improvement for Japanese brewers. It is also a great place where you can exchange information with beer judges from all over the world.
I was able to talk about my role as a judge and my thinking about evaluation at a high level. I would like to take it back to Japan and use it to educate beer judges and give advice on the growth of the market.
What else would you like the world to know?
If you ever come to Osaka, Japan, please visit our brewery, Craft Beer Base.
Damon Scott
Colorado, United States
How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?
I discovered craft beer at a local restaurant owned by a homebrewer. While wrapping up a degree in chemistry (with no idea what I would do with said degree), I dove into homebrewing. I suddenly realized there was something tangible I could make, using my creative spirit and my analytical brain. Brewing provides the opportunity to learn about farming, plant physiology, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and so much more. I realized early on that one is never bored while working in the brewing industry!
Beer matters to me because it allows me to make something that other people can experience viscerally.
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 truly an honor. I always find myself judging with incredibly experienced and knowledgeable people, who are simultaneously humble and approachable. The judging process constantly challenges my own assumptions about how I perceive the complex matrix that is beer. Judging also provides context through which I can view the beer I make, and evaluate it more objectively.
It is easy to get caught up in your own small world as a brewer. Nothing tears off the blinders like judging at the World Beer Cup. Tasting incredible beers inspires me to make better beer and question my assumptions. That perspective is invaluable.
Rick Kempen
Noord Holland, Netherlands
How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?
For well over thirty years, my life has been all about beer. Flunking out of university because of my side job as a waiter in De Pilsener Club turned out to be one of the best things to happen to me. In 1998, I joined Bier&cO, one of Europe’s leading beer import and distribution companies, dedicated to bringing craft beer from all over the globe to the people.
Having held various positions within Bier&cO, I eventually shaped its export department by representing a handful of American craft breweries. Together with a handful of others we pioneered the European market which helped start a European ‘beer revolution.’
Today, I am beer ambassador at Bier&cO, traveling around the globe, promoting and educating about a portfolio of special, exciting, and one-of-a-kind craft beers. I am a certified beer sommelier (Doemens Diplom-Biersommelier) and co-founded Dutch Beer Week as well as the Dutch Beer Challenge, a competition for Dutch beers. I like to see myself as a professional beer connoisseur who has had the pleasure of making a hobby out of his work. Beer, consequently, means everything to me!
Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?
Judging at World Beer Cup means you get to learn from fellow judges from all over the world, all bringing their specific expertise. Talking with your peers is a rare opportunity to better yourself in beer. Also, it gives you the opportunity to taste beers from breweries who take their business and craftmanship seriously. They dare to have their beers evaluated by professionals, using their feedback to improve their creations. Contributing to that, and doing that by tasting some of the best beers in the world without knowing what they are, is a huge honor, privilege, and pleasure.
What else would you like the world to know?
Participating as a brewery, you not only compete for awards, but you get valuable feedback from a professional and skilled group of tasters. Do it!
Dr. Amanda Reitenbach
Santa Catarina, Brazil
How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?
I began my journey in the beer industry from a scientific perspective, initially focused on producing scientific knowledge. Over time, my path shifted towards science, technology, and education, particularly within the realm of sensory sciences. For me, beer signifies the opportunity to share and apply evidence-based knowledge, contributing to the evolution and transformation of both society and the beer culture.
The beer industry, with its complexity and diversity, offers an intriguing platform for exploration, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence. It serves as a fusion point where science meets craftsmanship, tradition merges with innovation, and artistry blends with precision. Beer holds significance because it transcends being a mere beverage; it embodies a rich tapestry of history, culture, and craftsmanship.
Beer matters to me because it represents a dynamic world where science and culture converge to shape a constantly evolving and vibrant landscape. Through my involvement in the beer industry, I’ve witnessed the power of knowledge in enhancing beer quality, enriching consumer experiences, and fostering a passionate community. It’s not just a drink; it’s a catalyst for learning, sharing, and forging meaningful connections.
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 holds significant value for me on multiple fronts. Firstly, it’s an invaluable platform for honing and refreshing my sensory skills. Assessing a diverse range of beers challenges my palate, allowing me to stay at the forefront of sensory evaluation. It’s a continuous learning process that keeps me sharp and informed about global brewing trends.
Secondly, participating in the World Beer Cup is an extraordinary opportunity for international networking. It’s a chance to reunite with fellow professionals, forge new connections, and engage in cultural exchanges. The camaraderie among judges and the sharing of insights are priceless aspects of this experience.
Moreover, judging at the World Beer Cup offers a unique window into the global beer landscape. It’s fascinating to witness the evolution of the beer market across different countries and continents. It provides valuable insights into emerging styles, innovative techniques, and the ever-changing consumer preferences worldwide.
Judging at the World Beer Cup is not just an assessment of beers; it’s an immersive journey of sensory exploration, professional camaraderie, and global beer discovery. It keeps me passionate, informed, and deeply connected to the vibrant world of brewing.
Competition News
Registration for the 2024 World Beer Cup Commences November 7, 2023
Registration for the biggest battle of the beers, the World Beer Cup, is open from Nov. 7 through Dec. 7, 2023.
The World Beer Cup® Presents the Best Beers of 2023
The Brewers Association recognized 307 winners during the 2023 World Beer Cup awards ceremony on May 10, 2023.