Oliver Wesseloh
How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?
Beer was always my beverage of choice but I never thought much about it until a students exchange in 1990—the Canadians loved German beer and I loved Canada—so I thought why not brew German beer in Canada. After starting in a brewpub in my hometown of Hamburg I went to study brewing science at the VLB in Berlin, where I met Scott Jennings and John Haggerty, who have been close friends since. And that defines our little beer world for me: Beer is love, art, diversity, friendship and respect!
Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?
WBC and GABF in 2011 were the first major competitions in which I was part of the jury—that is the first reason why they are dear to me. Then there is of course the huge variety of beers and styles from all corners of the world that I am able to taste and learn from. Most importantly it is our wonderful community—the brewers, judges and stewards that I am able to see each year—like a wonderful family reunion (but without the fighting. ;)
What else would you like the world to know?
BEER IS LOVE, ART, DIVERSITY, FRIENDSHIP & RESPECT! Can't be said too often. Other than that: I love water and the mountains, biking, hiking, music, sharing stories, and good times with wonderful people
