The Second Spirits Expert Training by CMB Successfully Concludes in Renhuai
The 3-day Second Spirits Expert Training by CMB in September came to a successful close in Renhuai, marking the completion of another intensive program blending theory, tasting, and cross-cultural exchange. A total of 43 participants from across China and abroad gathered to experience this international learning platform.
01. International Expertise, Intensive Learning
Held from September 20-22 at the Renhuai Hot Spring Hotel, the training program was led by Jesús Bernad Dueñas, senior judge of the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles (CMB) and lecturer from Spain. The 43 participants included professionals from Guizhou as well as attendees traveling from Bordeaux, Beijing, Shanghai, Luzhou, and other regions, underscoring the program’s wide appeal. Notably, 17 participants attended for a second year, reflecting their dedication to advancing their knowledge of international spirits.
Jesús began with a production map of Mexican agave spirits, systematically explaining key topics such as geographical indications, production regions, agave varieties, fermentation, and distillation. His structured approach, enriched with first-hand insights from distillery visits, helped participants build a clear, integrated framework linking origin, terroir, techniques, and flavor.
Over the cours, participants tasted 84 agave spirits, ranging from Tequila and Mezcal to Bacanora, Raicilla, and Sotol. With guidance from the instructor, they applied the CMB tasting sheet to analyze appearance, aroma, and palate, mastering systematic and internationally recognized methods of evaluation and description.
Through this rigorous training, participants learned not only to identify “typical profiles” and “quality standards” but also to articulate their assessments in precise, professional terms.
02. Dual Examination: Theory and Blind Tasting
On the morning of September 22, the training concluded with a final examination designed to test both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
The assessment consisted of a written exam and a blind tasting. The written portion covered geographical indications, production techniques, and category characteristics of agave spirits. The blind tasting required systematic evaluation from sight to finish, with each section graded on a 100-point scale. A minimum score of 60 in each section was required to pass.
Successful candidates received an official, numbered certification and agave spirits badge issued by the Taster Academy by CMB. Outstanding performers were further awarded the title of “Certified Agave Specialist”and entered into CMB’s international judge pool.
Of the 43 participants, 31 passed the exam. Those who did not pass may apply for a re-examination at a later date.
| Score Range | Grade | Number of Participants |
| 90 – 100 | Excellent | 0 |
| 70 – 89 | Good | 12 |
| 60 – 69 | Pass | 19 |
| Below 60 | Fail | 12 |
As one of the world’s most influential wine and spirits competitions, CMB remains committed to aligning evaluation standards internationally and cultivating expert judges with both global perspective and professional rigor. Its structured training and selection system continue to enhance the professionalism and credibility of international judging, while creating pathways for more Chinese professionals to engage with the global industry.
03. Cocktail Reception: Experiencing Mexican Spirits Culture
Also on September 22, a delegation of local officials visited the training site. CHANG Wensong, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Zunyi Municipal Committee and Secretary of the CPC Renhuai Municipal Committee, HUANG Tao, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Renhuai Municipal Committee and Deputy Director of the Administrative Committee of the Renhuai Economic Development Zone, and OU Dabing, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Renhuai Municipal Committee and Director of the General Office of the CPC Renhuai Municipal Committee, toured the exam session, and expressed strong support for the program’s outcomes, while offering guidance for future talent development and international cooperation.
To further immerse participants in agave culture, we hosted a cocktail reception following the exam. Set against candlelight and music, the event offered both elegance and relaxation. Drinks such as the vividly layered Tequila Sunrise, balancing citrus brightness with grenadine sweetness, and the classic Margarita, crisp with tequila, orange liqueur, and lime, showcased the artistry of agave cocktails. Additional innovative creations using different agave bases further expanded the sensory experience.
From classroom to glass, from theory to culture, the reception extended the learning experience while highlighting the vibrancy of Mexican spirits. Participants left with deeper knowledge, refined tasting skills, and enhanced international communication abilities.
04. Looking Ahead
CMB will continue to expand its international spirits training programs, supporting Chinese professionals on their path to the global stage. At a time when the global drinks industry faces new transitions, openness, exchange, and collaboration are more essential than ever.
As an international platform, CMB is committed to bringing together voices from around the world, celebrating cultural diversity, and exploring new directions for the industry. Through ongoing training and development, Chinese experts will play an increasingly confident role in the global spirits community, contributing knowledge, innovation, and expertise to the future of the industry.
