Beer brewers do more than fill glasses; they help drive the nation. The industry boosts the economy, creates jobs, and supports local farmers through its demand for barley, hops, maize, and sorghum. Each pint strengthens the transport, packaging, logistics, hospitality, and retail industries.
Many breweries also invest in skills training, water conservation, and community projects. Recognising beer as part of culture and national pride, Jean Vincent Ridon and his son, William, co-founded the National Beer Trophy in 2015.
French-born sommelier Ridon, who is the manager of the Sommeliers Academy, Best Sommelier of South Africa 2023, and co-founder of the National Beer Trophy Awards, spoke to Food For Mzansi at the 2025 National Beer Awards.
Vateka Halile: Why do some beers go unnoticed by consumers?
Jean Vincent Ridon: Even today, many excellent beers go under the radar. The sheer diversity of options can be overwhelming, especially for new craft beer buyers. To address this, we judge beers similarly to how wines are judged, with internationally certified beer judges (BJCP certified), complemented by sommeliers and key industry buyers. Beer is more than technical precision; it is culture, community, and experience.
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How does the judging process help breweries?
Our judging process provides breweries with vital feedback. Each beer is evaluated by three experts, at least two of whom are internationally certified. This allows producers to understand what works well and identify areas for improvement. This insight is invaluable, whether for small microbreweries or giants like South African Breweries.
How do brewers gain recognition and market access?
Standing out in a crowded market is essential. Over the years, we have invited major national buyers, from Pick n Pay to Norman Good Fellows, to observe the“Best of Show” round, where all gold medalist beers compete for category trophies. This recognition acts as a powerful marketing tool, even for established brands like Heineken.
What challenges do emerging brewers face?
For new brewers, having a great recipe is not enough. Distribution, marketing, and visibility are critical. The National Beer Trophy often bridges the gap between hospitality professionals, sommeliers, and producers. We view beer as a culture, similar to wine, while the market often treats it as just another alcoholic beverage.
How can the South African beer culture grow?
South Africa has a unique heritage with umqombothi, which may be the ancestor of all local beers. Modern brewers could explore hybridising contemporary recipes with this heritage.
By promoting thoughtful beer choices, pairing beers with food, and celebrating local culture, we can build a strong beer culture rooted in our communities. The awards highlighted this vision, with dishes prepared using beer and hops as ingredients, showing the potential for culinary and cultural integration.
The National Beer Trophy, the largest domestic competition dedicated solely to South African-produced beers, provides small-scale brewers with the validation they need to succeed.
With roots in France and Belgium, William and I appreciate the value of a developed beer and wine culture. In a world where moderation is key, making better, more exciting beer choices not only enhances enjoyment but also strengthens our national identity.
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