Matthew Peetz

Colorado, United States

How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?

I started homebrewing in grad school while studying cellular repair using yeast as a model organism. My grad advisor was in charge of the Rocky Mountain Microbrewing Symposium and I was able to meet industry experts while volunteering at the event. I continued to work with yeast as a research professional at University of Colorado Denver before moving to the Brewing Science Institute. I used my expertise with propagating yeast to work in the biofuel industry before founding Inland Island with a co-worker. I have spent the last five years building my own business, Propagate Lab, which provides yeast for the brewing, distilling, and cider industries.

Beer is meant for enjoyment. It can transport you to anywhere in the world as you taste thousands of years of human experience and history. With hundreds of yeast, hop, grain, and other ingredient varieties, almost any flavor, texture, and color of beer can be produced for your enjoyment. You can pick apart the flavor, color, mouthfeel, and aroma. Or you can just slam down crushable lagers. That is what is so great about beer!

Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?

Beer is a wonderful combination of culture, history, art and science. Brewers work tirelessly to create something that the public can enjoy. Those that are masters of their craft should be recognized at the highest level, which is winning a World Beer Cup award. The brewers are serious about what they do and should be judged by knowledgeable and professional judges. I have 10 years of industry experience, lead sensory training programs at a local University, and have traveled extensively in Europe. I believe that I am well trained and passionate enough to make sure that every beer sample is being judged as it should be.

Ken Smith

Colorado, United States

How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?

I sold wine for 10 years before joining the Boston Beer Company in 1995. I was looking for a change and the beer industry was becoming (and has continued to become) more interesting. My early days were spent in sales, transitioning to sales training in the early 2000s. I currently teach classes on everything beer and that environment continues to evolve. I believe that beer and its history, culture, and science will continue, as it has for millennia, to be a part of humanity way into the future.

Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?

Meeting others of like mind from around the world and being able to taste the best brewers have to offer is a thrilling experience. Friends are made and new beer styles are experienced! How cool is that?

Brian Watson

Hamilton, New Zealand

How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?

In 1990 I saw a job for a trainee brewer with Heineken in the newspaper. I was lucky enough to get the job and never looked back. I have been in craft since 1996 in the U.K. and just love the industry, the people in it and what craft sands for.

Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?

I judge to give back to the industry, catch up with people from different countries and cultures, learn from people, and experience the wider world of craft beer. I am passionate about craft beer and love the industry and those in it. Every time I travel I learn something, and hope to never stop learning.

Jessica MI

Mexico City, Mexico

How did you get into the beer industry? Why does beer matter to you?

My mind was blown when I tried my first craft beer back in 2007. Since then, I couldn’t stop searching for those “different” beers. I became more and more involved until I ended up taking a course to become a beer sommelier, started homebrewing, and eventually became a beer judge. I attended various workshops, training sessions, and did plenty of studying. I launched my own brand in 2014, and now beer has become a very important part of my life—it has been my companion for many years.

Beer is such a versatile drink that brings people together. It’s a whole universe of options, and there’s a beer style for everyone!

Why do you judge at the World Beer Cup? What does judging at the World Beer Cup mean to you?

I enjoy promoting beer culture and helping the industry grow and develop. I believe that through beer competitions, we can help the industry improve. Recognizing breweries that are doing a wonderful job is a great way to encourage them to keep up the good work!

I also wanted to be part of the panel of judges for the “Olympics of Beer” because participating in such a huge and important event is both challenging and something I truly enjoy!