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The European Beer Star is one of the most prestigious beer competitions in the world. Breweries have until July 24 to submit their beers for this year’s competition and measure themselves against international competition.

For many years, the competition has stood for quality, transparency, and professional excellence. Breweries from all over the world use this opportunity to have their products evaluated under objective conditions and to gauge their performance against international standards. The high proportion of international entries underscores the competition’s global relevance and makes it a key benchmark for brewing quality.

Rigorous Evaluation by top-notch Jury

During the two-day blind tasting in mid-September in Nuremberg, the sole focus is on the quality of the submitted beers. The evaluation is based exclusively on sensory characteristics such as appearance, aroma, and taste.

The European Beer Star’s expert jury consists of experienced master brewers, beer sommeliers, and other beer experts from various countries. This international composition brings diverse perspectives to the table and ensures a balanced and objective evaluation.

Only the top three beers in each of the 77 categories at the European Beer Star 2026 will ultimately be awarded gold, silver, and bronze. This clear focus on excellence lends each individual award special significance and makes it a recognized mark of quality in the international brewing industry.

Valuable Feedback

In addition to the chance to win a medal, participating breweries receive a detailed sensory evaluation of their beers. This feedback – which includes a flavor profile – provides important insights for quality assurance and further development.

The European Beer Star thus makes a significant contribution to promoting quality and innovation in the international brewing industry. At the same time, it offers breweries a platform to showcase their capabilities and successfully position themselves.

Looking for Innovative Beverages

In addition to evaluating a wide variety of beer styles, the European Beer Star’s new Innovation Challenge offers breweries the opportunity to have innovative beverages - made with brewing ingredients or fermented – professionally assessed.

This special category is specifically aimed at breweries that are exploring new approaches beyond traditional beer. Products that are still in development and do not yet need to be available on the market may be submitted. A panel of experts evaluates the submissions both sensorily and in terms of their degree of innovation and market potential, and provides in-depth feedback.

In the end, the most compelling product will be honored with an award. Participation offers breweries the chance to showcase their innovative strength and to draw early conclusions about the potential market opportunities for their product ideas.

Award Ceremony at BrauBeviale in Nuremberg

On November 11, as part of the BrauBeviale trade show at the Nuremberg Exhibition Center, it’s time once again to roll out the red carpet for the winners of the European Beer Star! During a festive ceremony, the winning breweries will receive their well-deserved awards.

As the centerpiece of the subsequent Winners’ Night, the winning beers of the European Beer Star will be on hand, inviting guests to enjoy them in all their diversity. In the style of a gala, the award-winning products will take center stage. It will be an evening where the winning breweries can celebrate themselves and their beers in an atmospheric setting.