Hello, Water Lovers!
I just got back from an incredible weekend at the Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting Competition, and I have to tell you—if you ever get the chance to attend, do it. Imagine walking into a room filled with glasses of crystal-clear water, each one holding a unique story, a different terroir, a distinct mouthfeel. It’s not just about hydration; it’s about experience.
You might be wondering—What exactly is a water tasting competition?
Water Tasting 101
Much like wine, coffee, or spirits, water has depth, complexity, and an entire sensory profile that experts can evaluate. At competitions, waters are judged on clarity, taste, mouthfeel, aftertaste, and overall impression. Some have crisp, sharp minerality; others are silky smooth. Some waters surprise you with a gentle effervescence, while others leave you with a refreshing, lingering coolness.
Judges, often made up of water sommeliers, chefs, and beverage experts, taste still and sparkling waters from around the world in a blind setting. Each glass is carefully assessed for balance, minerality, and how it reflects its natural source.
Berkeley Springs: The Oscars of Water
Held annually in West Virginia, Berkeley Springs is the longest-running and most prestigious water tasting competition in the U.S. It’s been celebrating the best waters from around the world for over 30 years. The energy there is incredible—brands from across the globe submit their waters, hoping to earn a coveted gold medal. Some are small boutique brands with a deep connection to their local springs, while others are internationally recognized favorites.
But Berkeley Springs isn’t the only competition out there!
Water Tasting Competitions Around the World
- Fine Waters Summit (April 2025 – Location Atlanta.GA): Hosted by Fine Waters Society, this event brings together water sommeliers, brands, and experts to discuss the art of tasting, the importance of terroir, and how water should be appreciated like a fine beverage.
- AVPA Paris Gourmet Water Contest (France): Focuses on water as a gastronomic product, evaluating both still and sparkling varieties from a sensory and pairing perspective.
-Global Water Drinks Awards (UK): Recognizes excellence in packaging, sustainability, and taste.
-Japanese Mineral Water Grand Prix (Japan): Highlights the country’s premium bottled waters, with a focus on purity and craftsmanship.
-China International High-End Water Expo: Showcases the luxury bottled water market in Asia, including tasting competitions for the region’s best waters.
Can Anyone Attend These Competitions?
Some competitions, like Berkeley Springs, are open to the public, while others are industry-only events. If you’re interested in understanding water beyond “just water,” I highly recommend attending. Even if you’re not a water sommelier (yet!), these events can transform the way you think about what’s in your glass.
What Can You Learn?
Attending a water tasting competition will open your eyes (and taste buds) to the vast diversity of natural waters. You’ll discover how terroir influences taste, why certain mineral compositions create a smoother mouthfeel, and how carbonation levels affect the drinking experience. You’ll also meet passionate people—scientists, sommeliers, brand owners—who all share a love for water as an artisanal product.
For me, Berkeley Springs was an affirmation that water is so much more than a beverage—it’s an experience, a connection to nature, and a piece of a region’s history. And with Fine Waters Summit 2025 on the horizon, I can’t wait to dive even deeper into the world of water appreciation.
If you’ve ever been curious about how to truly *taste* water, stay tuned—I’m working on something special to bring the competition experience to you at home. 😉
Until next time, stay hydrated and drink wisely!
💦 The Waterlady
P.S. Which water tasting event would you love to attend? Let me know—I might just see you there!