World Class Judges

Chris Flaskamp

Santiago, Chile

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

I started homebrewing in Chile in 2000 and launched my own craft brewery in Santiago, Tübinger, in 2007. I’ve been a certified BJCP beer judge since 2014 and have judged at the world’s most important beer competitions, such as the World Beer Cup, Great American Beer Festival, European Beer Star in Germany, Brussels Beer Challenge in Belgium, World Beer Awards in the U.K., Blumenau Beer Cup in Brazil, and others.

I’m a co-founder and the current executive director of Chile’s Independent Craft Brewers Association, ACI Chile, since 2019, which has over 150 members from all over Chile. We’ve been organizing the yearly Great Chile Beer Festival and its beer competition, Copa ACI. During the dark years of COVID-19, I made the most of the downtime to write a book about beer history, beer culture, and beer styles. I’m proud to say that it has been quite successful, with two sold-out editions since 2021.

Beer has been part of my life since my student days in Germany, and I feel that I learn more every year about this beautiful beverage. I love opening people’s minds to the wide variety of beers, and there is still much to be done in that regard in Latin America.

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 like being at the global center of beer experts, and it is always a pleasure and a great honor to share time, stories, and pints with the most accomplished brewers and beer judges in the world. This experience enables me to continue learning and improving my knowledge of beer tasting, new trends, and beer style appreciation.

It is also important for me to represent our relatively small country and emerging craft beer market at a global event and to spread the word about the increasingly vibrant Chilean beer market.

Lana Svitankova

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

My beer journey started with an exclamation on my honeymoon in Prague: “Oh, beer can be like this?!” That morphed into a passion that drives my travels, education, work, and free time alike. Beer is an enjoyment for the senses, varied and exciting, social and inspiring. And besides pure hedonistic experience, it is always a discovery of new: new ingredients, new techniques, new places, and last but not least, amazing people.

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

Judging at the WBC is a great honor and privilege. Helping to find and highlight the best beers in their respective categories together with seasoned experts is a joy like no other. Watching the eyes of the winners light up, tears of happiness flowing, and banners and flags proudly displayed at the awards ceremony delights me to no end. Their merriment is so deserved since every time it’s only three awards, no more. The weight of making the choice and decision is always looming over each judge, but it’s a satisfying effort. Sharing knowledge, learning from the best, and representing your country in this ‘beer olympics’ is an invaluable experience, as well as the sheer enjoyment of meeting all the amazing people: judges, organizers, and volunteers, who make this celebration of beer real.

Andres Quiros

San Jose, Costa Rica

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

After a long wait, I got to brew my first homebrew batch with friends in China, where I had some incredible beer mentors from Germany and the U.S. That later became an income, we would sell beers with our homebrew club at festivals, and later with our own homebrewery, I later got hired at a Chinese brewpub, which was my first pro job. Experimentation has always been my favorite thing about beer, luckily, when I started brewing professionally the breweries where always open for my experiments, which made me grow as a brewer. I later founded my brewery Experimento Cervecero in Costa Rica, which is now evolving from a small industrial brewery to a largely self-sustainable farmstead brewery.

Beer is about community and that has always inspired me, most times when you meet a brewer you kind of get a new friend, who knows what you’ve been through; and more often than not, the collaboration spirit is on. Sharing a passion and sharing a beer is always a great feeling.

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

It has been a dream come true to judge at the WBC, I would dare say the pinnacle of a judging career. I judge to learn and share knowledge and the WBC is a great avenue for this. The diversity of beer, both in style and origin is incredible, and tasting beer from all over the world is always very rewarding and exciting. The judging panel is the top of the industry worldwide, so meeting the people and sharing stories was a definite treat. Judging at the world beer cup was a clear goal when I started brewing and later on judging, and getting to do it was a great feeling.

Jesse Brown

Washington, United States

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

I was a bartender in Wyoming who wanted to understand more about the production of beer, whiskey, and all things drink. Around 2006, while studying at the University of Wyoming, my friends and I would drive down to Fort Collins for weekends to visit breweries. New Belgium had a big impact on my early craft beer journey. Fast forward to January 2009—one semester from graduating—the economy had collapsed.

I moved to Lander, Wyoming, to climb and bartend. I convinced the new head brewer at Lander Brewing Co. to give me a job washing kegs. I self-studied all the brewing books I could afford, soaking up as much knowledge as possible. Ten years later, I love making craft beer more than ever in the Seattle area.

Beer matters to me because what I create brings communities together. Anywhere in the world, beer serves as a social conduit. It always brings me joy to see people gathered in the taproom.

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

I deeply care about the sensory aspect of beer, and I judge at the World Beer Cup for many reasons. One reason is my love for the qualitative experience—everything that goes into judging a beer is shaped by personal history and knowledge of styles. I’m constantly challenged by other world-class judges and always return home inspired with new perspectives.

Judging at the World Beer Cup is an honor. It allows me to have deep conversations with some of the best brewers and judges in the world.

Kathia Zanatta

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

After finishing my food engineering degree in Brazil, I followed my love for beer. I landed an internship at Paulaner Brewery in Germany in 2005, where I delved into the world of brewing and embraced the country’s diverse beer culture. Upon my return, I transitioned into a role at a brewery in Brazil, where I honed my skills over a five-year period in areas such as quality control, research and development, and laboratory analysis. In 2008, I embarked on a journey to Germany for the Beer Sommelier course, marking my entry into Brazil’s burgeoning craft beer scene.

Equipped with this expertise, I began organizing beer events. By 2010, I co-founded Instituto da Cerveja, an educational institution dedicated to the art of beer, and since then I have been fully committed to studying (including a brewmaster course in 2011), impactful teaching, hosting beer and food events, and consulting.

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

I have been participating as a judge in beer competitions since 2009, consistently enjoying the opportunity to expand my knowledge of beer, sensory analysis, and the market. It’s not only a chance to connect with new colleagues, but also an opportunity to support breweries by engaging in discussions about their beers and providing valuable feedback.

Jose R Ruiz

Chih, Mexico

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

I started homebrewing back in 2001 and then moved for work to live in Michigan, there I met some brewing friends that were also Bee Judge Certification Program judges. They taught me how to brew all grain batches and then I took a course to become BJCP Certified. In 2008, on returning to to Mexico I wanted to open up a microbrewery, but I found out that there were no suppliers for ingredients in Mexico. I started looking for suppliers that were willing to have a new distributor in Mexico and that is how I set up Micervesa, the first brewing supply company in Mexico. After that I was invited to organize the first BJCP beer competition in Mexico, since I was the only BJCP Certified judge at that time, and that is how Copa Cerveza Mx started and became the most important Beer competition in Mexico.

Beer matters to me because I see it as a social drink that unites people and countries. Beer is one of the few things countries have in common as a drink, but of course with a great diversity of styles. Beer is fun and it is best shared with friends.

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

Being a judge at the World Beer Cup is a tremendous honor, as it allows me to participate in the most prestigious beer competition worldwide. It is a great opportunity to meet new beer judges and share and learn from their experience, and explore the beer culture from their countries and cities. It is also a great responsibility to judge and select the best beers on the table that will be given awards, knowing that they mean a lot for each brewery.

I think beer competitions are a great motivation for brewers to do their best effort and keep brewing excellent beer, and this elevates the overall beer culture and experience to the end consumer.

Vasilios Gletsos

Vermont, United States

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

I was a puppeteer, touring around performing and started discovering classic beer styles from around the world. Also, I was really DIY oriented and fell in love with making beer at home. I got really into it after leaving Vermont and moving to Oregon, where I soon made the crossover into commercial brewing. Beer is deeply woven into the fabric of human social, cultural, scientific, and agricultural life. I love that about it and also how it stimulates my mind body and heart.

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

I really love the opportunity to meet new people who care as much as I do about this profession, and to reconnect with old friends. I enjoy testing my perceptions of beer and gaining new perspectives from other judges, as well as from the beers we judge. I also love the honor of tasting the best efforts of hard-working brewers.

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.

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.

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.

Ricardo Aftyka

Buenos Aires, Argentina

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

I started my beer career very early, at 19 years old, as a brewer. After more than 15 years in which I participated in the founding of the Argentine Brewers Association, wrote articles, made video tutorials and wrote a book, I decided to found my own brewery, Juguetes Perdidos. I have been an International Judge for more than 15 years and thanks to beer I have traveled all over the world and met wonderful people. Today I am 45 years old and my life is completely filled with beer, so much so that my children learned to say “aftertaste” before “dad.” If I had to define in one word what beer means to me, I would say it is “passion.”

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

I trained for many years to be able to enter the World Beer Cup as a judge. It is the highest level we can aspire to as international judges.

Judging at the World Beer Cup is a unique opportunity to learn from other judges, share time and experiences, represent my country, Argentina, and be part of the most important competition in the world of beer.

What else would you like the world to know?

Juguetes Perdidos, my brewery, was the first one to get a Gold award for Argentina at the World Beer Cup!

Flavio Boero

Genoa, Italy

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

When I was young I was fascinated by the fermentation of wine by following my father in his small production. In 1973 I had the opportunity to work for an Italian brewery named Poretti Industries. I started in the lab, and part of my job was collaborating with the lab manager in researching off-flavor in beer. At that time we were the only brewery in Italy that used gas chromatography to do basic research on the brewery sector. I also worked for this brewery when it was acquired by Carlsberg, but my passion for beer increased when I became interested in craft beer production in Italy.

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

I think the renaissance of beer started in the U.S. Right now, the World Beer Cup best represents the evolution of beer, and leads the beer movement around the world.