Chris Swersey
How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?
I started homebrewing in 1988 during a ski bum winter in Steamboat Springs, CO. Homebrew was less expensive than the few craft beers available at the time. A few winters later a local brewpub opened and I landed my first commercial brewing gig. Beer has always been part of my life and has enriched countless meals and conversations, and has made for an incredible professional life that I never expected.
Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?
The World Beer Cup is simply the most rigorous international beer competition anywhere. The judge panel is top notch. Awards are rare and the beers that win are exceptional. To win an award, beers have to make it past multiple tables of judges. Over time, the quality feedback from judges to brewers has increased style knowledge and beer quality across the global beer industry. Judging at the World Beer Cup is a true privilege and honor, a way to give back to the community, and a fantastic opportunity to catch up with friends and colleagues.
What else would you like the world to know?
I loved working for the Brewers Association as Supply Chain Specialist, staff technical committee lead, and competition director. I ran the World Beer Cup for over 20 years, moving on just after the 2022 edition (Minneapolis) to be with my lovely Aussie bride Katherine here in Newcastle NSW. My work with Hop Products Australia has allowed me to continue my brewing professional path and learn more about hops than I thought possible. Living in Newcastle has brought me to the ocean, and to surf lifesaving and public service. I consider myself a very lucky man.
