Judging Process
The Sydney Royal Distilled Spirits Show engages the most experienced and respected Judges in the industry and endorses the development of future judges.
The process is overseen by a Chair of Judges and includes five separate judging panels. Each panel consists of one Panel Chair, two Senior Judges and a minimum of one Associate Judge.
Medals are determined by the Judges using the following 100-point scale:
- Gold medal for outstanding Exhibits gaining 90pts and over
- Silver medal for excellent Exhibits gaining 82pts but fewer than 90pts
- Bronze medal for quality Exhibits gaining 74pts but fewer than 82pts
- Champion are determined using the Borda Count Method.
Judging Succession Plan
To ensure a consistent high standard of judging, the RAS operates the Sydney Royal Associate Judge Program to train the next generation.
Joining the Sydney Royal Associate Judge Program provides unique opportunities to:
- Lean how to score exhibits from experienced senior judges
- Experience first-hand what it takes to judge beer and cider
- Be exposed to emerging trends and the very best producers have to offer
- Network with industry experts
- Build experience toward becoming a qualified judge
Stewarding
Stewards play a valuable role ensuring each judging day runs smoothly through the coordination and preparation of exhibits.
Acting as a Steward for Sydney Royal competitions provides unique insight into a specific industry and counts as relevant experience toward an Associate Judge role in the future.