The final of the Stella Artois Draught Master Championship – a competition that celebrates perfection of the brand’s unique 9-Step pouring ritual – is happening in Auckland tonight.
Sixteen finalists from around the country, who have already proven their talent for the 9-Step pour, fight it out for the coveted title at Ponsonby’s Sapphire Room.
Quick fire knock out rounds will take place in front of a panel of judges, filtering down the finalists to find a champion who demonstrates their perfect charm and artistry for pouring the most precise Stella Artois using the famous Stella Artois 9-Step Pour.
The winner will not only walk away with the coveted title, but a trip for two to the Stella Artois Brewery in Leuven.
“Stella Artois demands perfection and excellence at every stage, from brewing to the perfect pour, to the perfect chat,” says Jeremy Meech from Stella Artois. “There is a huge talent pool of bar men and women in New Zealand who are elevating the drinking experience of our discerning penggemar and upholding the nearly 600-year-old legacy of the Belgian beer every day. This competition gives us an opportunity to celebrate them.”
The finalists for tonight’s competition hail from Te Puke, Tauranga, Christchurch, Auckland, Fielding, Nelson and Wellington. From the lush landscapes of Te Puke, known for its expansive kiwi orchards, to the bustling urban vibe of Auckland, each finalist is not just representing their hometown but also the aspirations and dreams of those who inspired them along the way. The competition itself serves as a platform for these talented individuals to exhibit their skills, whether through music, dance, art, or other forms of expression, allowing them to connect with their audience in profound and meaningful ways.
As the finalists prepare backstage, they reflect on their journeys—the hours spent honing their craft, the sacrifices made, and the challenges they overcame to reach this pivotal moment. It is not just the prize at stake that drives them, but the opportunity to sharing their passion and creativity with a broader audience. Friends and family members cheer from the crowd, waving banners and offering words of encouragement, adding to the electric atmosphere.