How the Competition works
The Latin American Kombucha Cup has its own methodology, developed specifically for the category from Patagonian Yeast’s international experience in fermentation, sensory analysis and taking part in and organizing fermented beverage competitions.
Our system combines technical criteria, specialized tools and judges from different markets to create useful references for producers and for the international evolution of kombucha.
Samples without commercial identification
Samples are presented to the panel of expert evaluators without any information about the producer, brand or commercial origin. Each product can thus be appreciated for its own characteristics, reducing possible bias and allowing its appearance, aroma, flavor, texture and sensory expression to be assessed.
Criteria specific to kombucha
The CLK uses guides, score sheets and criteria developed specifically for the category. Attributes such as fermentation, acidity, sweetness, carbonation, balance, intensity and sensory expression, among others, are considered according to the declared category and style.
These tools turn the perception of a product into structured information that is useful for its development.
Judges from different markets
Each sample is analyzed by professionals selected for their training, experience and knowledge of the industry and of sensory analysis.
Having judges from different countries brings in different experiences and professional references, strengthening the international dimension of the Cup.
A methodology created from within the industry
The CLK system combines Patagonian Yeast’s experience in fermentation, category development and fermented beverage competitions with the sensory analysis tools of Senso Science.
We do not apply generic criteria to an evolving category. We develop specific tools to understand, categorize and value the diversity of kombucha.
What does the producer get?
Taking part in the competition lets producers benchmark their product in an international context, learn how it is perceived under specialized criteria and obtain references that can contribute to its development.
An award also makes it possible to communicate the result of the work done and position the product before an international community of professionals and producers.
Recognizing in order to evolve
The Cup does not only seek to distinguish products. It seeks to generate knowledge, references and tools that help producers understand their beverages better and keep developing them, supporting both production and communication with their consumers.
The competition is the meeting point. The development of the industry is the purpose