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.

Domingo Otero

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

I got into the brewing industry because, from a young age—around 15 or 16—I started looking at food and drink as something inseparable. I became really interested in how food pairs with different beverages, and that curiosity naturally led me to explore beer. At first, I was tasting the beers that were available in my country, mostly German and American imports, though they didn’t always arrive in the freshest condition. In 2004, I traveled to California to study and work, and that’s where everything really clicked. I was exposed to a wide range of breweries and beer styles, and I completely fell in love with American IPAs and dark beers. That experience opened my eyes to what beer could really be. Beer is important to me because it’s a millennia-old beverage. It represents work, community, family, and friendship. Wherever we go, when we gather and raise a glass, it’s often a beer we’re sharing. Every ingredient has labor and history behind it. Every hop is fascinating—how it can completely change sensory profiles depending on where it’s grown. At the end of the day, beer is family, friends, and hard work. It’s an industry to protect, support, and help grow stronger.

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 because it represents the very best of what our industry can be. It’s the place where passion, technique, tradition, and innovation all meet on a global stage. Being invited to judge means sitting alongside some of the most respected brewers and sensory professionals in the world, and that alone is incredibly motivating. Judging at the World Beer Cup means a lot to me personally. It’s a reminder of why I fell in love with beer in the first place. Every beer on the table represents years of learning, risk-taking, hard work, and pride from a brewer somewhere in the world. Having the responsibility to evaluate that beer with fairness, focus, and respect is both humbling and energizing. For me, it’s also about giving back. Being part of that process allows me to support brewers, celebrate excellence, and contribute to the growth of a global beer community that truly feels like family. At the end of the day, judging at the World Beer Cup isn’t just about medals—it’s about honoring the craft, the people behind it, and the shared love of great beer.

What else would you like the world to know?

I would love for the world to know more about Panamanian beer and everything we’re building in my country. Panama may be a small country, but we have a strong and diverse craft beer culture. We brew all kinds of beers—everything from Belgian-style ales to Polish-inspired beers, American styles, European classics, and clean German lagers. What truly excites me is the opportunity to keep representing my country on a global stage whenever I’m invited to events like this. Competitions of this level allow me to continue spreading the language of beer, building culture, and helping place our industry where it deserves to be. I also believe strongly in supporting the people behind the beer. This industry is about brewers, teams, and community, and it’s important that we continue fighting for this movement—so that instead of declining, it grows again and regains the strength and momentum it once had. My goal is to help push Panamanian craft beer as high as possible and to keep that momentum moving forward.

Natalia Urzúa

Santiago, Chile

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

In 2026, I will celebrate 10 years in the beer industry. I started in 2016 after studying chemistry at university. As a student, I worked as a waitress while finishing my degree, and I learned a lot about beer during that time. Gradually, I became more and more interested and decided to train to become a BJCP judge. Eventually, I graduated and started looking for work. My first job was in sales at a brewery. Over time, I specialized more and more in service; I was part of the first group of Certified Cicerones and Doemens Biersommeliers in Chile. That opened many doors for me. To this day, I continue studying and improving, traveling as a judge to different competitions, teaching classes, and creating content. I never thought I would make a career out of beer, especially since it came into my life in a very casual way.

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

At the beginning of my career, international competitions seemed unattainable. I set my sights on one day being part of them, so I worked to achieve it. I’ve always admired all the judges attending World Beer Cup. And when the invitation arrived, I was extremely happy and full of joy. Participating in World Beer Cup is a way of honoring the memory of the person I was, who dreamed of attending some day, and I owe it to her to live that dream!

Amaey Mundkur

Connecticut, United States

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

I fell backwards into beer. I ran out of money while living in Australia and starting home brewing so I could continue to enjoy beer as a 21-year-old. I made a lot of bad alcoholic ginger beer before I learned to brew proper beer. People started buying my homebrew that I made out of my dorm room on the 11th floor of Howitt Hall at Monash University.

After I graduated, I didn’t want to move to Christmas Island in the South Pacific to study predatory ants that feasted on the migrating red crabs.So I picked beer.

Beer matters because it is art and love. It is an expression that is worthy of sharing. It matters to me because it engages with the very core of me, the scientist, the pedant, and the creative. Beer is about community — and as an immigrant from India (and the only Indian World Beer Cup beer judge — yes, out of almost two billion humans) who loves personal expression, it is where I belong.

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

I judge beer for a couple of reasons. It’s extremely important to positively impact beer quality. I have been in this industry for almost twenty years and have made beer on four continents. In that time, beer has grown, changed, and become what it is today. It is important to give positive feedback to all those brewers who aspire to be great, and I hope I can be part of that journey.

Judging at the World Beer Cup literally means the world to me. It is an affirmation of my achievements in the industry, as recognized by my peers who have kindly allowed me to judge with them, and to be part of an esteemed group of people that I can learn from. Hoarding information is selfish, while sharing it is selfless. And I hope to learn more.

What else would you like the world to know?

Besides beer, I love all the time I can spend with my wife and dog. I like hitting a little white ball around a large field (golf) and into a tiny hole. I love cooking and my family!