Suzanne Schalow
How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?
My entry into the industry was driven by a curiosity for the intersection of culture, history, and science. Starting in hospitality, I realized the complexity of beer was often underserved in culinary conversations. This led me to co-found a retail beer shop and franchise operation, where I spent over a decade mentoring teams and managing the guest experience. I wanted to create spaces where education was as vital as the product, eventually pursuing Advanced Cicerone® and BJCP Certified Beer Judge credentials. To me, beer matters because it is a universal language of craftsmanship and community. It requires a mastery of biology, chemistry, and engineering, yet remains fundamentally rooted in social connection. Whether evaluating a flight at the Great American Beer Festival or navigating international alcohol compliance, I am motivated by the dedication required to do things the right way. My induction as a Belgian Beer Knight was a meaningful milestone, representing a commitment to tradition and quality. Beer is a constant pursuit of excellence, and the pursuit of knowledge never truly ends. Helping others appreciate this complexity is what continues to drive my career.
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 represents the pinnacle of professional evaluation, and I am deeply honored to join the panel for the first time this year. Having spent my career advocating for quality and education, I see judging at this level as the ultimate opportunity to support the global brewing community. The World Beer Cup is unique in its commitment to recognizing the very best examples of beer styles globally, and contributing to that process is a significant responsibility. To me, this competition means participating in a rigorous sensory process that celebrates the intersection of art and science. It is an opportunity to sit alongside the industry’s most respected palates to uphold stylistic integrity. After years of judging regional, national, and international competitions, reaching this stage is a milestone that reinforces my devotion to the craft. It allows me to give back by ensuring that brewers’ hard work is met with the highest standard of professional evaluation, helping to set the benchmark for what world-class beer should be.
What else would you like the world to know?
The pursuit of knowledge never truly ends. My recent studies in sensory science at the Technical University of Munich (Weihenstephaner) and my move toward the Master Cicerone® level reflect my belief that there is always more to learn about the science and soul of this industry. I am passionate about mentoring the next generation of professionals and helping them realize that beer is a sophisticated, global language that connects us all.
