James Link is a Grand Master-ranked BJCP judge and seasoned homebrewer with over three decades of experience in beer evaluation. Based in Connecticut, Jim has been brewing for 31 years and has been a BJCP member for 29 of those, earning his Grand Master title in 2001. Early in his judging journey, he collaborated with BJCP founder Pat Baker, contributing to the growth and structure of the certification program.
Jim has judged hundreds of competitions, including prestigious events like the Great American Beer Festival (2015, 2016, 2018, and 2019). In 1995, he judged Best of Show for the Samuel Adams Longshot Competition alongside beer luminaries Michael Jackson and Jim Koch. His beer expertise has also been featured on Connecticut Public Television, and he has served as an Associate Exam Director for the BJCP.
With decades of hands-on brewing and judging, James Link brings expert insight, historical perspective, and a refined palate to every review.
Scroll down for a full list of James Link’s contributions.