World Class Judges

Abram Goldman-Armstrong

Sandefjord, Norway

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

I was a big fan of Oregon microbrews growing up in the 1990s and began homebrewing at age 17 when I moved to Minnesota for college and missed the beers from home. While studying at University College Cork in Ireland during my junior year abroad in 1997-98, my local Rumplestiltskins had a great selection of German and Belgian beers. I broadened my knowledge of European beer styles while traveling in Scotland, England, Belgium and the Netherlands with my trusty copy of Michael Jackson’s Pocket Guide to beer. When I returned to Portland after college I joined the Oregon Brew Crew and passed the BJCP exam at the national level. From there I went on to work as a beer writer, festival organizer, bottle shop beer buyer and brewer. I operated my own cidery in Portland from 2013-2019 and moved to Norway in 2020 to launch a cider brand for Fjordfolk Mikrobryggeri where I also became the assistant brewer and took over as head brewer in January 2022. Enjoying the diversity of beer flavours has always been an important part of travel for me, and I enjoy trying beers from around the world.

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 is an important way to connect with other brewers, judges, and writers from around the globe. I always learn something from judging, and it makes me a better brewer, as I taste and assess beers with other highly knowledgeable beer people.

What else would you like the world to know?

My favorite category to judge is Historical Beer. I enjoy learning about beer traditions from entrants notes and tasting different interpretations of historical beers from diverse brewing traditions.

Fernanda Meybom

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

I have always liked beer and my grandmother was a homebrewer.As a chemical engineer,I became more familiar with the fermentation process and the beer industry. After my graduation and a sommelier course, I decided to learn more about sensory analysis. I got involved with beer competitions and local homebrewers associations, including organizing competitions and conferences.I’m a master’s candidate in food engineering and beer science. I recently co-authored a chapter about pairing beer and food in Guia da Sommelieira de Cervejas (Beer Sommelier Guide), and co-authored a chapter about probiotic beer in Protocols in Technology of Probiotic Foods and Beverages for Springer Protocols. I’m also the technical advisor at the Regional Council of Engineering and Agronomy of Santa Catarina in Brazil. I am an active BJCP Certified judge and for the last 10 years I have judged in international beer competitions in Chile, Spain, Mexico, South Africa, Belgium, Argentina, and Uruguay. I’m the co-founder of Passaporte Cervejeiro, a company that organizes beer travel groups to Belgium. I have taught several courses in Brazil. Writing and cooking are my passions, and after five years as a columnist for Revista da Cerveja (Magazine of Beer), I now share recipes at my own website.

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

The World Beer Cup is one of the largest and most prestigious competitions in the world, and winning a medal there is celebrated as a significant competitive achievement. Being selected for the judging team is therefore a great honor and an achievement for beer professionals, as well as a great responsibility to select the worthiest beers from among the entries. Being part of the World Beer Cup is a great validation of my hard work, study, and preparation in the beer industry, and a wonderful way to use my beer evaluation skills.

Wolfgang Lindell

Sor-Trondelag, Norway

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

Having German roots, it’s fair to say that we always celebrated the culture of beer! My main hangout in college was at a brewpub in the nineties and it really inspired me to see the brewer at work with the craft. I also became interested in how technology can obscure reality, to which I sought out disciplines that kept me grounded to the world around us. I interned at a Maltster, graduated in the natural sciences, and eventually continued to work in the industry and attended brew school, becoming a master brewer in 2006. Beer and brewing matter to me in that they’re both an art and a science, a direct connection to the natural world, to agricultural raw materials, to culture and history, and to people.

We all need daily sustenance with food and drink so it’s great to be a part of the communal human journey.

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

After working 20 years in the industry, it’s great to be able to give something back. The community of beer is alive and strong, and we need to take care of our own and recognize and foster excellence. It’s also great to be with other inspired colleagues, which allows good discussion and illumination into the current state of affairs of our industry.

Ai Tani

Osaka-shi Kitaku Oyodonaka, Japan

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

“Almost 30 years ago, small-scale brewing began in Japan. At that time, imported German and Belgian beers were occasionally available in Japan. Small-scale brewing had begun, but there were few high-quality beers and few good brewers. I decided that I would grow as a professional and spread the word about the existence of high-quality beer in Japan. This is why I entered this industry.

Twelve years ago, I decided just acting as a judge was not enough to advance quality standards, so I started running my own bottle shop and beer pub, selecting good quality beer, and providing it to consumers while maintaining quality. Since five years ago, I have also owned a brewery, and while deepening my awareness of beer, I also improve brewing, sipping and serving skills, and support the management of breweries and restaurants.

Beer has a long history and has recently evolved from technological developments and scientific advances. From the current situation, where Japanese historical food and liquor culture is evolving through beer, we believe that we can find an opportunity to build a new beer culture in Japan.

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

Being able to judge at the World Beer Cup, the world’s premier competition, is a source of pride. It is a good opportunity to measure my judging skills.

It was also a great experience how the judges are organized at the World Beer Cup. I believe it is the best competition in the world. The fact that many Japanese have won awards has become a guideline for quality improvement for Japanese brewers. It is also a great place where you can exchange information with beer judges from all over the world.

I was able to talk about my role as a judge and my thinking about evaluation at a high level. I would like to take it back to Japan and use it to educate beer judges and give advice on the growth of the market.

What else would you like the world to know?

If you ever come to Osaka, Japan, please visit our brewery, Craft Beer Base.

Masafumi Morita

Nagano, Japan

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

It was 20 years ago when I had my first taste of English Pale Ale and was shocked. It was the moment I discovered the diversity and richness of flavors in beer. From there I went on to drink all kinds of Japanese craft beers and eventually had the opportunity to work for the brands I loved the most.

I think beer is a very important beverage because it is one tool for living a relaxed life, and it promotes community and connection.

Craft beer is also a great new form of industry. The spirit of working together to create a market, rather than each brewery competing for it, is the most important aspect of craft beer. It feels like it represents an improvement over capitalistic economic activity. That’s why I love working in this industry.

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

I love the craft beer industry and want to contribute my bit to it. The judging sessions give me tips on how to improve my brewing, and I get to have a great time with my judge friends from around the world — it’s an irreplaceable opportunity for me.

The World Beer Cup is attended by some of the best brewers, journalists, and consultants, and getting to know them and sharing new ideas and information is also a great experience. I feel very fortunate to have been a part of this effort for over 10 years. Without this experience, our beers would be of a lesser caliber today.

What else would you like the world to know?

Beer is just a beverage and has no power to heal injuries or illnesses. But we are born in really difficult times, with a lot of stress, and drinking a good craft beer is one oasis. I also feel that the craft beer industry is taking a more democratic, artistic, and organic approach to things. I am hopeful that it will gradually make the world a better place. I encourage you to seek out craft brewers in your area who have a great spirit. And if you can relate to them, please support them.

Dr. Amanda Reitenbach

Santa Catarina, Brazil

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

I began my journey in the beer industry from a scientific perspective, initially focused on producing scientific knowledge. Over time, my path shifted towards science, technology, and education, particularly within the realm of sensory sciences. For me, beer signifies the opportunity to share and apply evidence-based knowledge, contributing to the evolution and transformation of both society and the beer culture.

The beer industry, with its complexity and diversity, offers an intriguing platform for exploration, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence. It serves as a fusion point where science meets craftsmanship, tradition merges with innovation, and artistry blends with precision. Beer holds significance because it transcends being a mere beverage; it embodies a rich tapestry of history, culture, and craftsmanship.

Beer matters to me because it represents a dynamic world where science and culture converge to shape a constantly evolving and vibrant landscape. Through my involvement in the beer industry, I’ve witnessed the power of knowledge in enhancing beer quality, enriching consumer experiences, and fostering a passionate community. It’s not just a drink; it’s a catalyst for learning, sharing, and forging meaningful connections.

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 holds significant value for me on multiple fronts. Firstly, it’s an invaluable platform for honing and refreshing my sensory skills. Assessing a diverse range of beers challenges my palate, allowing me to stay at the forefront of sensory evaluation. It’s a continuous learning process that keeps me sharp and informed about global brewing trends.

Secondly, participating in the World Beer Cup is an extraordinary opportunity for international networking. It’s a chance to reunite with fellow professionals, forge new connections, and engage in cultural exchanges. The camaraderie among judges and the sharing of insights are priceless aspects of this experience.

Moreover, judging at the World Beer Cup offers a unique window into the global beer landscape. It’s fascinating to witness the evolution of the beer market across different countries and continents. It provides valuable insights into emerging styles, innovative techniques, and the ever-changing consumer preferences worldwide.

Judging at the World Beer Cup is not just an assessment of beers; it’s an immersive journey of sensory exploration, professional camaraderie, and global beer discovery. It keeps me passionate, informed, and deeply connected to the vibrant world of brewing.

Luc De Raedemaeker

Brussels, Belgium

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

‘Beer and life: If you have to eat and drink anyway, you might as well enjoy it.’ This is an important rule of life that I learned growing up in Brussels, where I developed an appreciation for the offerings from the Zenne valley, particularly the Geuze and Lambiek. I acquired my taste for beer as a student bartender and my expertise grew as I trained in Belgium and around the world. I am now a lecturer in zythology and chief editor of Bier Grand Cru. My first book, The Belgian Beer Book, has been hailed as the perfect guide to Belgian beer and beer culture. I am a regular speaker at food and beer festivals all over the world. I am also the co-founder and director of the Brussels Beer Challenge, a prestigious international beer competition.

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 is a chance to be part of a global celebration of beer, contribute to the industry’s growth and quality, and gain personal and professional enrichment through the experience. It holds a special place in my heart.

Mirella Amato

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

I have been working in the beer industry for over 15 years now. I was drawn to the industry because I wanted to raise awareness of, and appreciation for, my local craft beers. Beer is such a varied beverage and can be appreciated on many levels. There’s always more to learn about it and yet, as complex and multi-faceted as it is, it remains approachable.

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

I’m honored to have been judging at the World Beer Cup since 2010. For me, it’s a place to share my knowledge and passion. It’s a place to learn from my peers and continue to hone my palate. It’s a place to taste the latest interpretations of styles and spot emerging trends. It’s a community of like-minded people from all over the world that I look forward to reconnecting with every year to hear about what is going on in the world of beer internationally.

Satoshi Murabayashi

Tokyo, Japan

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

Twenty years ago, in Japan, I did not have a chance to taste the diversity of craft beer. On a business trip to the United States, I was totally shocked by the quality, appearance, aroma, and flavor of craft beer. After that experience, I joined the Craft Beer Association and realized that education is important to understand the value of beer; that the quality of beers are critically important for better moments; and that collaboration among global associations and competitions is so important. I am now contributing as a teacher and competition manager for the International Beer Cup in Japan and the Japan Great Beer Awards.

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

My first World Beer Cup was in San Diego in 2012. I wanted to contribute to this industry by tasting great beer and giving comments for their innovation. As a person from Asia, I would also share my local expertise with beer and judges here. In addition, I wanted to experience a world-class competition for learning and improving our competitions in Japan.

Diego Setti

Florida, United States

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

I started homebrwing in 2010 in Buenos Aires, and became a Beer Judge Certification Program judge in 2012. Between 2012 and 2017, I gave many talks and trainings for the Asociación Civil Somos Cerveceros, which is the Argentine equivalent of the American Homebrewers Association.

In 2016, after a 6 months stay in Germany, I started doing some beer styles consultancies. In 2017, I quit my IT job to focus 100% on beer. I started a beer education institute called Zeta Atelier de Cervezas, offering a wide range of trainings and courses for beer enthusiasts and professionals. During that time I also became a Certified Cicerone and a Doemens Academie Biersommelier.

All that called the attention of many investors and entrepreneurs, so I accepted an offer to join the team of Prison Pals Brewing Company at the end of 2019 and I moved to Florida in 2020 to start that project, where I designed the layout and all the technical specs of the brewery. Now I’m working as brewmaster.

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

The World Beer Cup is one of the most prestigious beer competitions around the world and for sure is the biggest of all of them. It takes a lot of effort to become a part of the tasting panel: I applied for the first time in 2017 for the 2018 edition and for different reasons I’ve been able to have the honor of judging here for the first time in 2023. It’s a unique experience, where you taste world-class beers with a top notch tasting panel from every corner of the world.

Ignacio Curto

Buenos Aires, Argentina

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

I started homebrewing in 2006 and in 2013, with some friends, started a commercial project so we could drink the beers we wanted. I left my aeronautical engineering job in R&D to work and live from beer (or at least try to, hehe).

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

It’s a great pleasure to judge beers, share experiences and knowledge with people from all over the world. Each time I travel thanks to beer I feel rewarded in many ways—friendship, pleasure, new ideas, knowledge. The World Beer Cup is probably the biggest opportunity to experience all this.

Gabriela Montandon

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

My journey into the beer industry began as a hobby that eventually grew into a passion for both academic and craft brewing. As one of the first certified judges at the time, I opened a craft brewery and pursued a Ph.D. in the field, all while actively judging beers. These experiences allowed me to combine my love for brewing with my scientific curiosity. Over time, my interest in fermentation science deepened, leading me to focus on beer evaluation and sensory analysis. Today, I lead research projects at Fermentis, where I continuously explore the complex dynamics of yeast, fermentation, and flavor—an area that remains both challenging and rewarding in my career.

Beer matters to me because it represents much more than just a drink—it’s a blend of science, culture, and craftsmanship. With more than 15 years of experience evaluating beers and examining the intricate relationships between microbial dynamics and flavor expression, I have gained a profound appreciation for the creativity and precision that brewing requires. Beyond its technical aspects, beer connects people and tells a rich story of tradition and innovation. Being part of this ever-evolving industry is incredibly rewarding, and I feel fortunate to contribute to its growth and development.

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 allows me to contribute to the global beer community while applying my expertise in sensory analysis and beer evaluation. With more than 15 years of experience in the field, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the nuances in beer styles and flavor profiles, which I bring to the judging process. It’s also an opportunity to engage with other experts, share knowledge, and help maintain high standards of quality and innovation in the industry.

For me, judging at the World Beer Cup is both an honor and a responsibility. It’s a chance to be part of one of the most prestigious beer competitions in the world, where brewers showcase their passion, creativity, and technical skill. It also means helping to uphold the values of fairness and excellence in beer production. Personally, it’s a meaningful way to stay connected with the global beer community and to celebrate the diversity and craftsmanship that make the industry so vibrant.