On 26 June 2026, 27 graduates received their certificates at a formal ceremony. VLB Managing Director Dr Björn Ch. Klotzbücher praised the participants’ achievements and thanked everyone involved for their great commitment and hard work.

The group were first treated to some beer before the official celebrations began. VLB Managing Director Dr Björn Ch. Klotzbücher opened the graduation ceremony with an address to the graduates and their friends and families. “You have completed this course with great dedication. The certificates you are receiving today are well deserved. You are now all part of our network. The doors of the VLB are always open to you. Because one thing unites us all: we have the best job in the world.” Burghard Meyer also addressed the group, praising the participants’ outstanding achievements and hard work. “The overall average mark was exceptionally good this year,” said the course leader. The top student of the year was Albert Forges Gelabert (Damm, Spain). Ebru Akinci (Anadolou Efes, Turkey) came second, whilst Ana Carolina Zancan (Ambev Brasil) took third place.

As is the case every year, one graduate received a gift on behalf of the class. This time, Teepawhat Thangkitjirawanit (Boon Rowd Brewery in Thailand) was presented with a pewter mug from the course leader’s personal collection. A remarkable brief conversation one evening at the Zunfthaus had prompted Meyer to choose him. Visibly moved, ‘Tipa’ accepted his gift.

The closing ceremony at the VLB and the party later at the Zunfthaus were lively affairs. A sense of pride and relief spread through the group, along with a touch of wistfulness that these six intense months had now come to an end. But as is the case every year, friendships for life were forged once again.

Would you like to gain this experience too? The next Certified Brewmaster Course will take place from 6 January to 25 June 2027.