Kiwi takes flight to show the world how it's done

Yesterday afternoon, Avril Maxwell was named the New Zealand winner of the 2009 Stella Artois Draught Masters. Avril from Belgium Beer Cafe Torenhof in Christchurch managed to perfect each step in the pouring ritual and was judged on her precision, technique and presentation skill by a panel of judges.

The competition was fierce, with 15 contestants vying for the top honor at the National Finals held at The Food Show Auckland. These contestants had previously competed in regional finals throughout the country to win their place. Avril will now go on to compete in the world championships in New York in October.

“I am really excited to win this title and the chance to go on and represent New Zealand in such a prestigious competition” says Avril, “I will be practicing a lot in the next three months to ensure I give it my absolute best against the bartenders from countries around the world.”

The Stella Artois Draught Masters competition has been running for 12 years and attracts around 36 different countries.

The judging panel this year included Kirsty McLean, New Zealand Stella Artois Draught Master of 2008, Nigel King, Stella Artois Marketing Manager, Geoff Griggs, Beer Critic, and Beverly Ward, Lion Nathan National Microbiologist. Judging from behind the bar were Laura Smith and Peter Krafft from Lion Nathan’s Quality Assurance team.

“The level of competition was high this year with all bartenders training vigorously to perfect the craft of a 9 part pour of Stella Artois,” says Nigel King, Stella Artois Marketing Manager, “This is such an achievement for Avril and a testament to her skills. We wish her luck and encourage people to go to Torenhof and appreciate the perfect pour.”