Beer judging - the inside story

Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes at an international beer competition? From blind tastings to the challenges of selecting a medal-winning beer, experienced beer judge and Brewers Association American Craft Beer Ambassador for Europe Lotte Peplow takes us inside the judging room and shares what it takes to become a judge. What it’s like to judge beer At almost all competitions, beers are judged blind with the judging criteria based on how accurately a beer reflects the relevant style guidelines, produced by the Brewers Association, Beer Judge Certification Programme (BJCP) or the competition organiser. Judges are typically presented with a flight of 8-10 beers and assess each beer on the basis of visual appearance, aroma, taste/flavour, mouthfeel and aftertaste according to the style guidelines. Judges will often include an element of overall impression and sometimes drinkability or enjoyment of the beer. Judging generally takes place in a large hall or room with rows

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