Radim Zvanovec
How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?
I’ve always been surrounded by Czech beer culture—it was never something distant or trendy that I found later in life. Growing up near Budweis in the Czech Republic, beer was simply part of the rhythm of everyday living. Even before I understood it, I felt it: beer wasn’t just a drink, it was a tradition. I spent many years working in hospitality, often in higher-end venues where everything was polished and curated—the wine lists, cocktails, and service had its own set of rules. Beer was always there too, but it sat on the “non-fancy” side of the menu. Familiar, reliable, sometimes overlooked. But the more I paid attention, the more I realized how much depth was hidden behind its "simplicity." It demands precision, consistency, and time—the kind of work that stays invisible unless you truly care to notice. That discovery pulled me in. I explored beer properly, earned qualifications, and went deeper into the world of brewing, quality, and sensory. Eventually, I found my place in the industry, representing Budvar—our national brewery and a symbol of where I come from. And I’ve never looked back.
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 a lot to me because it connects me to the global beer community in the most honest way: through the glass. You’re sitting alongside people who have dedicated their lives to brewing, sensory science, quality, and tradition—and you’re all focused on the same thing: recognizing excellence. But it’s also a reminder that no matter how long you’ve been in beer, there is always more to learn. Every panel brings new perspectives, new discussions, and new standards of what “world-class” can look like. The stewards deserve huge credit too—they’re not just organized and efficient, they’re genuinely supportive, helpful, and always positive, which creates the right atmosphere for judging at this level. And for me personally, one of the most valuable parts is being pushed outside my comfort zone. Coming from a strong lager background, it’s inspiring to judge styles that aren’t part of my everyday world—learning how to evaluate unfamiliar categories with the same respect, structure, and curiosity. That exposure keeps you sharp, humble, and constantly improving as a judge.
What else would you like the world to know?
What I’d love the world to know is this: don’t be afraid to brew or drink a lager that’s truly true to style. Lager isn’t “simple”—it’s honest. It leaves nowhere to hide. It takes patience, precision, and real confidence in your process. And when it’s done properly, it can be one of the most beautiful expressions of brewing skill. And as for drinking it—Don’t Fear The Foam. Foam isn’t a mistake, it’s part of the experience. It protects aroma, keeps the beer fresher, elevates mouthfeel and completes the pour the way it was meant to be enjoyed. Na zdraví!
