How to Win a Commercial Beer Competition (Tips from an International Beer Judge) | QFPB E023

In this episode of the Quality-focused Pro Brewers, discover exactly how to win big at commercial beer competitions like the Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA), World Beer Cup, and European Beer Star. Hendo breaks down how professional brewers can use judge feedback to dial in process improvements and not just tweak recipes blindly.

Learn the secrets behind selecting the right styles, presenting your beers properly, avoiding common faults like oxidation or diacetyl, and turning medals into marketing gold. Plus, hear real success stories from Rockstar Brewer Academy members who boosted quality, sales, and reputation through award wins.

If you want to raise your brewery’s profile and brew beers that judges (and drinkers) love, this episode is essential listening.

00:00 – Why Some Breweries Always Win Medals00:45 – Real Story: Champion Australian Beer out of 2,400 Entries01:12 – Hendo’s Life as an International Beer Judge03:00 – How Commercial Beer Competitions Work05:00 – Where Most Brewers Get Feedback Wrong07:50 – Judging Criteria and Blind Process11:15 – Scored vs. Ranked Competitions13:15 – Using Judge Feedback for Continuous Improvement16:40 – Why Awards Matter More Than You Think19:00 – Tips for Picking Styles & Categories21:00 – Free Tools & Next Steps

Whenever you’re ready, here are 5 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer you’re proud of — whether you’re planning a new brewery or already up and running:

1⃣ Join the Quality-Focused Pro Brewers Facebook GroupI share loads of practical, pro-level brewing content in my free group: Quality-Focused Pro Brewers. No stainless steel spam. No home brewers. Just serious beer talk. https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com

2⃣ Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re sick of conflicting “research” and want to fast-track real improvements, grab this simple 5-step guide. https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide

3⃣ Get the 30-Minute Crash CourseSee exactly how top breweries build rock-solid beer quality and consistency. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to set up a system, lock in process control, and keep the creativity flowing. https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse

4⃣ Apply to Join the Rockstar Brewer AcademyReady to take the next step? The Rockstar Brewer Academy is for pro brewers serious about installing proven quality systems and brewing beer they’re truly proud of — batch after batch. Spots are limited, so apply here: https://rockstarbrewer.com/apply

5⃣ Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomWant my help? Book a quick Calibration Call and let’s see how we can get you brewing more consistent, high-quality beer — fast. https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration

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