Francisco Santana
How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?
I got into the beer industry in a very natural way. Beer has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. In my family, it was always present. My grandmother would offer a cold beer to anyone who visited instead of coffee, so it became part of how we connected with people. When I started drinking, beer was my first choice. Growing up in the Dominican Republic also shaped that connection. It is hot year round, so a cold beer is part of daily life. It is refreshing, social, and always tied to good moments with family and friends. Over time, that cultural connection turned into a deeper interest. I became curious about the variety of styles, the ingredients, and the craftsmanship behind each beer. What started as something simple became something I wanted to understand and explore. Beer matters to me because it brings people together, but also because it represents culture, tradition, and technical skill all in one glass.
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 means being part of something bigger. It is a global standard, and there is a real responsibility to evaluate each beer the right way. Every brewer puts a lot of effort into what they make, and I take that seriously. It is also a great way to keep learning. You taste beers from all over the world, different styles, different approaches. That helps me improve my palate and understand beer at a deeper level. At the end, it is about respect. Respect for the process, for the brewers, and for the craft. Being able to contribute to that is something I value a lot.
