They come from Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Brazil, Mexico, Latvia, and twelve other countries. They are passionate storytellers, sensitive sensory experts, and walking encyclopedias of brewing culture. And they have one goal: the title of World Champion Beer Sommelier.
On September 13th and 14th, it's that time again—the Doemens Academy is hosting the 8th World Championship of Beer Sommeliers at the Munich Exhibition Center. The grand final on September 14th is open to the public, an invitation for everyone who is curious, every beer lover, and every foodie: Come by, be amazed, taste, and cheer them on!
So, What Exactly Is a Beer Sommelier?
If you're picturing a guy in a suit holding a giant beer mug, think again. Beer sommeliers (and yes, they're male and female) are true experts who don't just drink beer—they put it on a pedestal. They tell stories about its style, origin, and how it's made. They analyze aromas, find the perfect food pairings, and know which glass to use—whether at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a local festival. Their job is to make beer culture visible and a true experience.
The Competition: Knowledge, Taste, and Stage Presence
The road to the final goes through theory and sensory tests. If you can tell yeast from hops, you've got a good chance. But an even better chance is if you can shine on stage. Because in the final, it's not just about expertise but also the art of presentation. Six finalists are served an unknown beer and given 10 minutes to convince the jury and the audience. The style? The aromas? The story? The food pairing? Everything is asked. Everything is crucial.
Contestants are judged based on a set of criteria. The jury this time around is made up of former world champions—people who know exactly what it feels like to be on that stage.
An International Field
80 participants from 18 nations are coming, many of whom have qualified in national preliminary rounds. It's a strong field, full of surprises. The winner not only becomes an ambassador for beer but also the voice of a growing movement: seeing beer as a cultural and culinary product, far from tired clichés.
And After?
For some, the title is a career launchpad; for others, it's a validation of their path. What unites them all is a love for beer and the desire to share that love.
In the end, it's not just about points and rankings. It's about passion, precision, and a beverage that can do far more than just quench your thirst.
So, the stage is set for the incredible diversity in a glass. And who knows—maybe the next world champion is from your neighborhood?
Cheers.
Finals (public):
When: Starting at 3:00 PM on September 14th
Where: Messe München, Conference Center North, Hall C 62, 1st floor
Fotocollage: from screenshots of World Cup Beersommeliers @ facebook (September 10, 2025)
