Why independence matters
An award is only useful if people trust how it was decided. When results can be influenced by sponsorship, advertising or relationships, the signal loses meaning for everyone, including the producers who earn it honestly.
Blind tasting
In a blind evaluation, each entry receives a code and is poured out of sight. Judges see only the code and the category. This removes the influence of labels, reputation and price, and lets the product speak for itself.
Qualified, category-specific panels
Evaluating a Czech pilsner well requires different knowledge than evaluating a cool-climate Pinot Noir. Credible programs recruit judges with relevant experience and keep beer and wine panels separate, so each product is judged against the expectations of its own style.
Recusal and conflicts of interest
Judges should step away from any category where they have a financial or personal connection to an entrant. Programs typically publish this rule and appoint an independent chair to enforce it.
A written rubric, and a record
A rubric spells out what judges assess. For Craft & Cork, the proposed dimensions are technical quality, balance, expression of style or intent, character and the reason a product warrants seeking out. Decisions are recorded and signed, so every result can be explained.
How the Crown will work
- Standards, eligibility and panel qualifications will be published before entries open.
- Entering will be optional and separate from Festival participation.
- One Crown is one equal distinction. There are no tiers or rankings.
- Recognition belongs to a specific product and award year, and for wine, a specific vintage.
- The first Crowns will be revealed at the inaugural Craft & Cork Festival in Chicago in 2027.
Read more on the Crown Recognition page.
Questions people ask
Have any Crowns been awarded?
No. Guide selections today are editorial recommendations. The first Crowns will be awarded in 2027.
Can sponsors influence results?
No. Sponsorship and paid activations are separate from recognition decisions.
Will there be gold, silver and bronze?
No. Each Crown is one equal distinction.