Fernanda Ueno
São Paulo, Brazil
¿Cómo entró en la industria cervecera? ¿Por qué le importa la cerveza?
I began my brewing journey in 2009 at Cervejaria Colorado in Brazil, starting as an intern and becoming head brewer. After earning a degree in food engineering, I completed the Master Brewers Program at UC Davis in 2015. I then led innovation projects for AB InBev’s craft breweries across South America and Europe.
In 2021, I moved to Europe to manage brewing and quality for ABI’s craft brands—including Camden Town, Bosteels, Birra del Borgo, and La Virgen—as well as co-packers and Beyond Beer products, until 2024.
Throughout my career, sensory analysis and beer judging have been part of my daily work. I’m passionate about experimenting with new ingredients, flavors, and techniques, exploring not just beer but also beverages like sake and coffee.
I’m also co-founder and brewmaster of Japas Cervejaria, a female-owned gypsy brewery blending Japanese and Brazilian influences. We brew and distribute our beers in Brazil, the U.S., and Taiwan, using beer as a creative way to honor our heritage.
Beer continues to teach me and connect me with amazing people every day—and I’m proud to give back to the industry that inspires me so deeply.
¿Por qué participa como juez en la Copa Mundial de la Cerveza? ¿Qué significa para usted ser jurado en la Copa Mundial de la Cerveza?
Judging at the World Beer Cup is both an honor and a way for me to give back to the brewing community that has shaped so much of my life. It’s a chance to support brewers by providing thoughtful, constructive feedback, and to celebrate the creativity, diversity, and technical skill that go into every beer. With a background in brewing, sensory analysis, and innovation across different cultures and styles, I see judging as a unique opportunity to keep learning while also helping to uphold the highest standards in our industry. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of such a prestigious event that brings together passionate professionals from around the world to share knowledge, elevate beer quality, and inspire one another.
