Joseph Formanek

Joe Formanek is a National-ranked judge with the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) and a highly respected figure in the world of homebrewing and beer evaluation. With a background in microbiology from the University of Minnesota and a passion sparked by a 1987 tour of Summit Brewing Company, Joe has been brewing, judging, and perfecting his craft for over three decades.

A founding member of the Boneyard Union of Zymurgical Zealots (BUZZ) and active member of the Urban Knaves of Grain Homebrew Club, Joe brings both scientific expertise and community leadership to the brewing scene. Based in Bolingbrook, Illinois, he also works as a Director at a leading food ingredient company in Itasca, IL—blending science and sensory experience daily.

Joe’s accolades speak volumes: he is a six-time Midwest Homebrewer of the Year, a two-time American Homebrewers Association Ninkasi Award winner, and the 2004 Meadmaker of the Year. In 2011, his Russian Imperial Stout earned national distribution through the Samuel Adams Longshot competition, solidifying his reputation as one of the most skilled and innovative homebrewers in the U.S.

With decades of judging experience and a trophy case full of Best of Show awards, Joe Formanek is a trusted authority on beer styles, brewing techniques, and quality evaluation, making his insights invaluable to both casual drinkers and brewing professionals alike.