A

Lite
American
Lager
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Standard
American
Lager
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 1A. Lite American Lager
Category: 1. Light Lager

OG: 1030 – 1040 FG: 0.998 - 1.008 ABV: 3.2 - 4.2%

IBU: 8-12 SRM: 2-3

Commercial Examples: Miller Lite, Bud Light, Coors Light, Amstel Light
History:
Aroma: Little to no malt aroma, although it can be grainy, sweet or corn-like if present. Hop aroma may range from
none to a light, spicy or floral hop presence. Low levels of yeast character (green apples, DMS, or fruitiness) are
optional but acceptable. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Very pale straw to pale yellow color. White, frothy head seldom persists. Very clear.
Flavor: Crisp and dry flavor with some low levels of sweetness. Hop flavor ranges from none to low levels. Hop
bitterness at low level. Balance may vary from slightly malty to slightly bitter, but is relatively close to even. High
levels of carbonation may provide a slight acidity or dry "sting." No diacetyl. No fruitiness.
Mouthfeel: Very light body from use of a high percentage of adjuncts such as rice or corn. Very highly carbonated
with slight carbonic bite on the tongue. May seem watery.
Overall Impression: Very refreshing and thirst quenching.

Ingredients:
• Water:
• Malt: Two- or six-row barley with high percentage (up to 40%) of rice or corn as adjuncts.
• Hops: Hallertau
• Yeast: American Lager yeast.
• Other:

Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

1B. Standard American Lager

Category: 1. Light Lager

OG: 1040 – 1050 FG: 1004 – 1010 ABV: 4.2 - 5.1%

IBU: 8 – 15 SRM: 2-4

Commercial Examples: Miller High Life, Budweiser, Kirin Lager, Molson Golden, Corona Extra, Foster’s Lager
History:
Aroma: Little to no malt aroma, although it can be grainy, sweet or corn-like if present. Hop aroma may range from
none to a light, spicy or floral hop presence. Low levels of yeast character (green apples, DMS, or fruitiness) are
optional but acceptable. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Very pale straw to medium yellow color. White, frothy head seldom persists. Very clear.
Flavor: Crisp and dry flavor with some low levels of sweetness. Hop flavor ranges from none to low levels. Hop
bitterness at low to medium-low level. Balance may vary from slightly malty to slightly bitter, but is relatively close to
even. High levels of carbonation may provide a slight acidity or dry "sting." No diacetyl. No fruitiness.
Mouthfeel: Light body from use of a high percentage of adjuncts such as rice or corn. Very highly carbonated with
slight carbonic bite on the tongue.
Overall Impression: Very refreshing and thirst quenching.

Ingredients:
• Water:
• Malt: Two- or six-row barley, corn or rice as adjuncts and potentially artificially colored with dark caramel
brewing syrups.
• Hops: Hallertau
• Yeast: American Lager yeast
• Other:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Premuim
American
Lager
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Munich
Helles
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 1C. Premium American Lager
Category: 1. Light Lager

OG: 1046 – 1056 FG: 1.008 - 1.012 ABV: 4.7 - 6%

IBU: 15 – 25 SRM: 2-6

Commercial Examples: Miller Gen. Draft, Michelob, Coors Extra Gold, Heineken, Beck’s, Stella Artois, Singha
History:
Aroma: Low to medium-low malt aroma, which can be grainy, sweet or corn-like. Hop aroma may range from very
low to a medium-low, spicy or floral hop presence. Low levels of yeast character (green apples, DMS, or fruitiness) are
optional but acceptable. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Pale straw to gold color. White, frothy head may not be long lasting. Very clear.
Flavor: Crisp and dry flavor with some low levels of sweetness. Hop flavor ranges from none to low levels. Hop
bitterness at low to medium level. Balance may vary from slightly malty to slightly b itter, but is relatively close to
even. High levels of carbonation may provide a slight acidity or dry "sting." No diacetyl. No fruitiness.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light body from use of adjuncts such as rice or corn. Highly carbonated with slight carbonic bite
on the tongue.
Overall Impression: Refreshing and thirst quenching, although generally more filling than standard/lite versions.

Ingredients:
• Water:
• Malt: Two- or six-row barley with up to 25% rice or corn as adjuncts.
• Hops: Hallertau
• Yeast: American Lager yeast.
• Other:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

1D. Munich Helles

Category: 1. Light Lager

OG: 1045 – 1051 FG: 1008 – 1012 ABV: 4.7 - 5.4%

IBU: 16 – 22 SRM: 3-5

Commercial Examples: Hacker-Pschorr Münchner Helles, Paulaner Premium Lager, Spaten Premium Lager,
Andechser Hell, Augustiner Lagerbier Hell, Weihenstephaner Original, Stoudt’s Gold Lager
History: Created in Munich in 1895 at the Spaten brewery by Gabriel Sedlmayr to compete with Pilsner-style beers.
Aroma: Grain and sweet, clean malt aromas predominate. May also have a very light noble hop aroma, and a low
background note of DMS (from pils malt). No esters or diacetyl.
Appearance: Medium yellow to pale gold, clear, with a creamy white head.
Flavor: Slightly sweet, malty profile. Grain and malt flavors predominate, with a low to medium-low hop bitterness
that partially offsets the malty palate. Very slight hop flavor acceptable. Finish and aftertaste remain malty. Clean, no
fruity esters, no diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium body, medium carbonation, smooth maltiness with no trace of astringency.
Overall Impression: Malty but fully attenuated.

Ingredients:
• Water: Moderate carbonate
• Malt: Pilsner Malt
• Hops: German noble hops
• Yeast:
• Other:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Dortmunder
Export
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

German
Pilsner
(Pils)
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 1E. Dortmunder Export
Category: 1. Light Lager

OG: 1048 – 1056 FG: 1.010 - 1.015 ABV: 4.8 - 6%

IBU: 23 – 30 SRM: 4-6

Commercial Examples: DAB Export, Dortmunder Union Export, Dortmunder Kronen, Ayinger Jahrhundert, Great
Lakes Dortmunder Gold, Saratoga Lager, Dominion Lager, Gordon Biersch Golden Export
History:
Aroma: Low to medium noble (German or Czech) hop aroma. Moderate malt aroma; can be grainy to somewhat
sweet. May have an initial sulfury aroma (from water and/or yeast) and a low background note of DMS (from pils
malt). No diacetyl.
Appearance: Light gold to deep gold, clear with a persistent white head.
Flavor: Neither malt nor hops dominate, but both are in good balance with a touch of sweetness, providing a smooth
yet crisply refreshing beer. Balance continues through the finish and the hop bitterness lingers in aftertaste (although
some examples may finish slightly sweet). Clean, no fruity esters, no diacetyl. Some mineral character might be noted
from the water.
Mouthfeel: Medium body, medium carbonation.
Overall Impre ssion: Balance is the hallmark of this style. It has the malt profile of a Helles, the hop character of a
Pils, and is slightly stronger than both. Hard, minerally water can often be tasted.
Ingredients:
• Water: Hard
• Malt: Pilsner Malt
• Hops: German or Czech Noble hops.
• Yeast: German Lager yeast.
• Other:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

2A. German Pilsner (Pils)

Category: 2. Pilsner

OG: 1044 – 1050 FG: 1008 – 1013 ABV: 4.4 - 5.2%

IBU: 25 – 45 SRM: 2-5

Commercial Examples: Bitburger, Warsteiner, König Pilsener, Jever Pils, Holsten Pils, Spaten Pils, Victory Prima
Pils, Brooklyn Pilsner
History: A copy of Bohemian Pilsener adapted to brewing conditions in Germany.
Aroma: Typically features a light grainy malt character (sometimes Graham cracker-like) and distinctive flowery or
spicy noble hops. Clean, no fruity esters, no diacetyl. May have an initial sulfury aroma (from water and/or yeast) and a
low background note of DMS (from pils malt).
Appearance: Straw to light gold, brilliant to very clear, with a creamy, long-lasting white head.
Flavor: Crisp and bitter, with a dry to medium-dry finish. Moderate to moderately-low yet well attenuated maltiness,
although some grainy flavors and slight malt sweetness are acceptable. Hop bitterness dominates taste and continues
through the finish and lingers into the aftertaste. Hop flavor can range from low to high but should only be derived from
German noble hops. Clean, no fruity esters, no diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light body, medium to high carbonation.
Overall Impression: Crisp, clean, refreshing beer that prominently features noble German hop bitterness accentuated
by sulfates in the water.
Ingredients:
• Water: Medium Sulfate
• Malt: Pilsner Malt
• Hops: German Noble hop varieties (such as Hallertauer, Tettnanger and Spalt for taste and aroma),
• Yeast: German lager yeast
• Other:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Bohemian
Pilsener
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Classic
American
Pilsner
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 2B. Bohemian Pilsener
Category: 2. Pilsner

OG: 1044 – 1056 FG: 1.013 - 1.017 ABV: 4.2 – 5.4%

IBU: 35 – 45 SRM: 3.5 - 6

Commercial Examples: Pilsner Urquell, Budweiser Budvar (Czechvar in the US), Czech Rebel, Staropramen,
Gambrinus Pilsner, Dock Street Bohemian Pilsner
History: First brewed in 1842, this style was the original clear, light-colored beer.
Aroma: Rich with complex malt and a spicy, floral Saaz hop bouquet. Some diacetyl is acceptable, but need not be
present. Otherwise clean, with no fruity esters.
Appearance: Very pale gold to deep burnished gold, brilliant to very clear, with a dense, long-lasting, creamy white
head.
Flavor: Rich, complex maltiness combined with a pronounced yet soft and rounded bitterness and flavor from Saaz
hops. Some diacetyl is acceptable, but need not be present. Bitterness is prominent but never harsh, and does not linger.
The aftertaste is balanced between malt and hops. Clean, no fruity esters.
Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied (although diacetyl, if present, may make it seem medium-full), medium carbonation.
Overall Impression: Crisp, complex and well rounded yet refreshing.
Ingredients:
• Water: Soft water with low mineral content
• Malt: Moravian malted barley
• Hops: Saaz hops
• Yeast: Czech lager yeast
• Other:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

2C. Classic American Pilsner

Category: 2. Pilsner

OG: 1044 – 1060 FG: 1010 – 1015 ABV: 4.5 - 6%

IBU: 25 – 40 SRM: 3-6

Commercial Examples: Occasional brewpub and microbrewery specials.

History:
Aroma: Low to medium grainy, corn-like or sweet maltiness may be evident (although rice-based beers are more
neutral). Medium to moderately high hop aroma, often classic noble hops. Clean lager character, with no fruitiness or
diacetyl. Some DMS is acceptable.
Appearance: Yellow to deep gold color. Substantial, long lasting white head. Bright clarity.
Flavor: Moderate to moderately high maltiness similar in character to the Continental Pilsners but somewhat lighter in
intensity due to the use of up to 30% flaked maize (corn) or rice used as an adjunct. Slight grainy, corn-like sweetness
from the use of maize with substantial offsetting hop bitterness. Rice-based versions are crisper, drier, and often lack
corn-like flavors. Medium to high hop flavor from noble hops (either late addition or first-wort hopped). Medium to
high hop bitterness, which should not be coarse nor have a harsh aftertaste. No fruitiness or diacetyl. Should be smooth
and well-lagered.
Mouthfeel: Medium body and rich, creamy mouthfeel. Medium to high carbonation levels.
Overall Impression: A substantial Pilsner that can stand up to the classic European Pilsners.
Ingredients:
• Water: Water with a high mineral content can lead to an inappropriate coarseness in flavor and harshness.
• Malt: Six-row barley with 20% to 30% flaked maize to dilute the excessive protein levels.
• Hops: Clusters or modern noble crosses (Ultra, Liberty, Crystal) are also appropriate. Cascade are
inappropriate.
• Yeast:
• Other:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Vienna
Lager
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Oktoberfest/
Märzen
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 3A. Vienna Lager
Category: 3. European Amber Lager

OG: 1046 – 1052 FG: 1.010 - 1.014 ABV: 4.5 – 5.7%

IBU: 18 – 30 SRM: 10 -16

Commercial Examples: Great Lakes Eliot Ness (unusual in its 6.2% strength and 35 IBUs), Gösser Dark, Noche
Buena, Negra Modelo, Samuel Adams Vienna Style Lager, Old Dominion Aviator Amber Lager, Gordon Biersch
Vienna Lager, Capital Wisconsin Amber
History: The original amber lager developed by Anton Dreher shortly after the isolation of lager yeast.
Aroma: Moderately rich German malt aroma (of Vienna and/or Munich malt). A light toasted malt aroma may be
present. Similar, though less intense than Oktoberfest. Clean lager character, with no fruity esters or diacetyl. Noble
hop aroma may be low to none. Caramel aroma is inappropriate.
Appearance: Light reddish amber to copper color. Bright clarity. Large, off-white, persistent head.
Flavor: Soft, elegant malt complexity is in the forefront, with a firm enough hop bitterness to provide a balanced
finish. Some toasted character from the use of Vienna malt. No roasted or caramel flavor. Fairly dry finish, with both
malt and hop bitterness present in the aftertaste. Noble hop flavor may be low to none.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body, with a gentle creaminess. Moderate carbonation. Smooth. Moderately
crisp finish. May have a bit of alcohol warming.
Overall Impression: Characterized by soft, elegant maltiness that dries out in the finish to avoid becoming sweet.
Ingredients:
• Water: Moderately hard, carbonate-rich water.
• Malt: Vienna malt provides a lightly toasty and complex, melanoidin-rich malt profile.
• Hops: Continental hops (preferably noble varieties).
• Yeast:
• Other:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

3B. Oktoberfest/ Märzen

Category: 3. European Amber Lager

OG: 1050 – 1056 FG: 1012 – 1016 ABV: 4.8 – 5.7%

IBU: 20 – 28 SRM: 7 - 14

Commercial Examples: Paulaner Oktoberfest, Hacker-Pschorr Original Oktoberfest, Ayinger Oktoberfest-Märzen,

Hofbräu Oktoberfest, Spaten Oktoberfest, Eggenberger Märzen, Goose Island Oktoberfest, Capital Oktoberfest, Gordon
Biersch Märzen, Samuel Adams Oktoberfest (a bit unusual in its late hopping)
History: Origin is credited to Gabriel Sedlmayr, based on an adaptation of the Vienna style around 1840.
Aroma: Rich German malt aroma (of Vienna and/or Munich malt). A light to moderate toasted malt aroma is often
present. Clean lager aroma with no fruity esters or diacetyl. No hop aroma. Caramel aroma is inappropriate.
Appearance: Dark gold to deep orange-red color. Bright clarity, with solid foam stand.
Flavor: Initial malty sweetness, but finish is moderately dry. Distinctive and complex maltiness often includes a
toasted aspect. Hop bitterness is moderate, and noble hop flavor is low to none. Balance is toward malt, though the
finish is not sweet. Noticeable caramel or roasted flavors are inappropriate. Clean lager character with no diacetyl or
fruity esters.
Mouthfeel: Medium body, with a creamy texture and medium carbonation. Smooth. Fully fermented, without a
cloying finish.
Overall Impression: Smooth, clean, and rather rich, with a depth of malt character. This is one of the classic malty
styles, with a maltiness that is often described as soft, complex, and elegant but never cloying.
Ingredients:
• Water: Somewhat alkaline water (up to 300 PPM), with significant carbonate content is welcome.
• Malt: German Vienna malt is often the backbone of the grain bill, with some Munich malt & Pils malt.
• Hops: Continental hops, especially noble varieties, are most authentic.
• Yeast:
• Other:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Dark
American
Lager
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Munich
Dunkel
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 4A. Dark American Lager
Category: 4. Dark Lager

OG: 1044 – 1056 FG: 1008 – 1012 ABV: 4.2 – 6%

IBU: 8 – 20 SRM: 14 - 22

Commercial Examples: Dixie Blackened Voodoo, Shiner Bock, San Miguel Dark, Beck's Dark, Saint Pauli Girl
Dark, Warsteiner Dunkel, Crystal Diplomat Dark Beer
History:
Aroma: Little to no malt aroma. Medium-low to no roast and caramel malt aroma. Hop aroma may range from none to
light spicy or floral hop presence. Hop aroma may range from none to light, spicy or floral hop presence. Can have low
levels of yeast character (green apples, DMS, or fruitiness). No diacetyl.
Appearance: Deep amber to dark brown with bright clarity and ruby highlights. Foam stand may not be long lasting,
and is usually light tan in color.
Flavor: Moderately crisp with some low to moderate levels of sweetness. Medium-low to no caramel and/or roasted
malt flavors (and may include hints of coffee, molasses or cocoa). Hop flavor ranges from none to low levels. Hop
bitterness at low to medium levels. No diacetyl. May have a very light fruitiness. Burnt or moderately strong roasted
malt flavors are a defect.
Mouthfeel: Light to somewhat medium body. Smooth, although a highly carbonated beer.
Overall Impression: A somewhat sweeter version of standard/premium lager with a little more body and flavor.
Ingredients:
• Water:
• Malt: Two- or six-row barley, corn or rice as adjuncts. Light use of caramel and darker malts.
• Hops:
• Yeast:
• Other: May use coloring agents.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

4B. Munich Dunkel

Category: 4. Dark Lager

OG: 1048 – 1056 FG: 1010 – 1016 ABV: 4.5 – 5.6%

IBU: 18 – 28 SRM: 14 - 28

Commercial Examples: Ayinger Altbairisch Dunkel, Hacker-Pschorr Alt Munich Dark, Paulaner Alt Münchner
Dunkel, Weltenburger Kloster Barock-Dunkel, Penn Dark Lager, Capital Munich Dark, Harpoon Munich-type Dark
Beer, Gordon Biersch Dunkels, Dinkel Acker Dark
Aroma: Rich, Munich malt sweetness, like bread crusts (and sometimes toast.) Hints of chocolate, nuts, caramel,
and/or toffee are also acceptable. No fruity esters or diacetyl should be detected, but a slight noble hop aroma is
acceptable.
Appearance: Deep copper to dark brown, often with a red or garnet tint. Creamy, light to medium tan head. Usually
clear, although murky unfiltered versions exist.
Flavor: Dominated by the rich and complex flavor of Munich malt, usually with melanoidins reminiscent of bread
crusts. The taste can be moderately sweet, although it should not be overwhelming or cloying. Hints of caramel,
chocolate, toast or nuttiness may be present in the background. Burnt or bitter flavors from roasted malts are
inappropriate, as are pronounced caramel flavors from crystal malt. Hop bitterness is moderately low but perceptible,
with the balance tipped firmly towards maltiness. Noble hop flavor is low to none. Aftertaste remains malty, although
the hop bitterness may become more apparent in the medium-dry finish. Clean lager character with no fruity esters or
diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium to medium-full body, providing a firm and dextrinous mouthfeel without being heavy or cloying.
Moderate carbonation. May have a light astringency and a slight alcohol warming.
Overall Impression: Rich Munich malt and the accompanying melanoidins.
Ingredients:
• Water: Moderately carbonate water
• Malt: German Vienna malt is often the backbone of the grain bill, with some Munich malt & Pils malt.
• Hops: Continental hops, especially noble varieties, are most authentic.
• Yeast:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Schwarzbier
(Black Beer)

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Maibock/
Helles Bock
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 4C. Schwarzbier (Black Beer)
Category: 4. Dark Lager

OG: 1046 – 1052 FG: 1.010 - 1.014 ABV: 4.4 – 5.4%

IBU: 22 – 32 SRM: 17 – 30+
Commercial Examples: Köstritzer Schwarzbier, Kulmbacher Mönchshof Premium Schwarzbier, Einbecker
Schwarzbier, Weeping Radish Black Radish Dark Lager, Sprecher Black Bavarian, Sapporo Black Beer
History: A regional specialty from southern Thuringen and northern Franconia in Germany.
Aroma: Low to moderate malt, with low aromatic sweetness and/or hints of roast malt often apparent. The malt can be
clean and neutral or rich and Munich-like, and may have a hint of caramel. The roast can be coffee-like but should
never be burnt. A low noble hop aroma is optional. Clean lager yeast character (light sulfur possible) with no fruity
esters or diacetyl.
Appearance: Medium to very dark brown in color, often with deep ruby to garnet highlights, yet almost never truly
black. Very clear. Large, persistent, tan-colored head.
Flavor: Light to moderate malt flavor, which can have a clean, neutral character to a rich, sweet, Munich-like
intensity. Light to moderate roasted malt flavors can give a bitter-chocolate palate that lasts into the finish, but which
are never burnt. Medium-low to medium bitterness, which can last into the finish. Light to moderate noble hop flavor.
Clean lager character with no fruity esters or diacetyl. Aftertaste tends to dry out slowly and linger, featuring hop
bitterness with a complementary but subtle roastiness in the background. Some residual sweetness is acceptable but not
required.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body. Moderate to moderately high carbonation. Smooth. No harshness or
astringency, despite the use of dark, roasted malts.
Overall Impression: Dark German lager that balances roasted yet smooth malt flavors with mo derate hop bitterness.
Ingredients:
• Water: Moderately hard, carbonate-rich water.
• Malt: German Munich malt and Pilsner malts for the base supplemented by a small amount of roasted malts.
• Hops: Noble-type German hop varieties
• Yeast: Clean German lager yeast
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

5A. Maibock/ Helles Bock

Category: 5. Bock

OG: 1064 – 1072 FG: 1011 – 1018 ABV: 6.3 – 7.4%

IBU: 23 – 35+ SRM: 6 - 11

Commercial Examples: Ayinger Maibock, Hacker-Pschorr Hubertus Bock, Einbecker Mai-Urbock, Augustiner
Hellerbock, Hofbräu Maibock, Capital Maibock, Victory St. Boisterous, Gordon Biersch Blonde Bock
History: The serving of Maibock is specifically associated with springtime and the month of May.
Aroma: Moderate to strong malt aroma, often with a lightly toasted quality and low me lanoidins. Moderately low to
no noble hop aroma, often with a spicy quality. Clean. No diacetyl. Fruity esters should be low to none. Some alcohol
may be noticeable. May have a light DMS aroma from pils malt.
Appearance: Deep gold to light amber in color. Lagering should prov. good clarity. Lg, creamy, persist., white head.
Flavor: The rich flavor of continental European pale malts dominates (pils malt flavor with some toasty notes and/or
melanoidins). Little to no caramelization. May have a light DMS flavor from pils malt. Moderate to no noble hop
flavor. May have a low spicy or peppery quality from hops and/or alcohol. Moderate hop bitterness (more so in the
balance than in other bocks). Clean, with no fruity esters or diacetyl. Well-attenuated, not cloying, with a moderately
dry finish that may taste of both malt and hops.
Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied. Moderate to moderately high carbonation. Smooth and clean with no harshness or
astringency, despite the increased hop bitterness. Some alcohol warming may be present.
Overall Impression: A relatively pale, strong, malty lager beer. Designed to walk a fine line between blandness and
too much color. Hop character is generally more apparent than in other bocks.
Ingredients:
• Water: Soft water preferred so as to avoid harshness
• Malt: Base of pils and/or Vienna malt with some Munich malt to add character.
• Hops: Noble hops
• Yeast: Clean lager yeast
• Other: Decoction mash is typical, but boiling is less in traditional bocks to restrain color development.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Traditional
Bock
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Doppelbock

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

 5B. Traditional Bock
Category: 5. Bock

OG: 1064 – 1072 FG: 1.013 - 1.019 ABV: 6.3 – 7.2%

IBU: 20 – 27 SRM: 14 – 22

Commercial Examples: Einbecker Ur-Bock Dunkel, Aass Bock, Great Lakes Rockefeller Bock
History: Originated in the Northern German city of Einbeck.
Aroma: Strong malt aroma, often with moderate amounts of rich melanoidins and/or toasty overtones. Virtually no
hop aroma. Some alcohol may be noticeable. Clean. No diacetyl. Low to no fruity esters.
Appearance: Light copper to brown color, often with attractive garnet highlights. Lagering should provide good
clarity despite the dark color. Large, creamy, persistent, off-white head.
Flavor: Complex maltiness is dominated by the rich flavors of Munich and Vienna malts, which contribute
melanoidins and toasty flavors. Some caramel notes may be present from decoction mashing and a long boil. Hop
bitterness is generally only high enough to support the malt flavors, allowing a bit of sweetness to linger into the finish.
Well-attenuated, not cloying. Clean, with no esters or diacetyl. No hop flavor. No roasted or burnt character.
Mouthfeel: Medium to medium-full bodied. Moderate to moderately low carbonation. Some alcohol warmth may be
found, but should never be hot. Smooth, without harshness or astringency.
Overall Impression: A dark, strong, malty lager beer.
Ingredients:
• Water: Water hardness can vary, although moderately carbonate water is typical of Munich.
• Malt: Munich and Vienna malts, rarely a tiny bit of dark roasted malts for color adjustment.
• Hops: Continental European hop varieties are used.
• Yeast: clean lager yeast
• Other: Decoction mashing and long boiling plays an important part of flavor development. Never any non-
malt adjuncts.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

5C. Doppelbock OG: 1072 – 1096+ FG: 1016 – 1024+ ABV: 7 – 10+%
Category: 5. Bock IBU: 16 – 26+ SRM: 6 - 25
Commercial Examples: Paulaner Salvator, Ayinger Celebrator, Spaten Optimator, Tucher Bajuvator, Augustiner
Maximator, Weihenstephaner Korbinian, Weltenburger Kloster Asam-Bock, EKU 28, Eggenberg Urbock 23º
Aroma: Very strong maltiness. Darker versions will have significant melanoidins and often some toasty aromas. A light caramel
flavor from a long boil is acceptable. Lighter versions will have a strong malt presence with some melanoidins and toasty notes.
Virtually no hop aroma, although a light noble hop aroma is acceptable in pale versions. No diacetyl. A moderately low fruity aspect
to the aroma often described as prune, plum or grape may be present (but is optional) in dark versions due to reactions between malt,
the boil, and aging. A very slight chocolate-like aroma may be present in darker versions, but no roasted or burned aromatics should
ever be present. Moderate alcohol aroma may be present.
Appearance: Deep gold to dark brown in color. Darker versions often have ruby highlights. Lagering should provide
good clarity. Large, creamy, persistent head (color varies with base style: white for pale versions, off-white for dark
varieties). Stronger versions might have impaired head retention, and can display noticeable legs.
Flavor: Very rich and malty. Darker versions will have significant melanoidins and often some toasty flavors. Lighter
versions will a strong malt flavor with some melanoidins and toasty notes. A very slight chocolate flavor is optional in
darker versions, but should never be perceived as roasty or burnt. Clean lager flavor with no diacetyl. Some fruitiness
(prune, plum or grape) is optional in darker versions. Invariably there will be an impression of alcoholic strength, but
this should be smooth and warming rather than harsh or burning. Presence of higher alcohols (fusels) should be very
low to none. Little to no hop flavor (more is acceptable in pale versions). Hop bitterness varies from moderate to
moderately low but always allows malt to dominate the flavor. Most versions are fairly sweet, but should have an
impression of attenuation. The sweetness comes from low hopping, not from incomplete fermentation. Paler versions
generally have a drier finish.
Mouthfeel: Medium-full to full body. Moderate to moderately-low carbonation. Very smooth without harshness or astringency.
Overall Impression: A very strong and rich lager. A bigger version of either a traditional bock or a helles bock.
Ingredients:
• Water: Water hardnes s varies from soft to moderately carbonate.
• Malt: Pale versions -Pils and/or Vienna malt; Darker ones - Munich and Vienna malts
• Hops: Noble hops
• Yeast: Clean lager yeast
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A

Eisbock

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Cream Ale

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

 5D. Eisbock
Category: 5. Bock

OG: 1.078 – 1.120+ FG: 1.020 – 1.035+ ABV: 9 – 14+%

IBU: 25 – 35+ SRM: 18 – 30+

Commercial Examples: Kulmbacher Reichelbräu Eisbock, Eggenberg Urbock Dunkel Eisbock, Niagara Eisbock,
Southampton Eisbock
Aroma: Dominated by a balance of rich, intense malt and a definite alcohol presence. No hop aroma. No diacetyl. May
have significant fruity esters, particularly those reminiscent of plum, prune or grape. Alcohol aromas should not be
harsh or solventy.
Appearance: Deep copper to dark brown in color, often with attractive ruby highlights. Lagering should provide good
clarity. Head retention may be impaired by higher-than-average alcohol content and low carbonation. Pronounced legs
are often evident.
Flavor: Rich, sweet malt balanced by a significant alcohol presence. The malt can have melanoidins, toasty qualities,
some caramel, and occasionally a slight chocolate flavor. No hop flavor. Hop bitterness just offsets the malt sweetness
enough to avoid a cloying character. No diacetyl. May have significant fruity esters, particularly those reminiscent of
plum, prune or grape. The alcohol should be smooth, not harsh or hot, and should help the hop bitterness balance the
strong malt presence. The finish should be of malt and alcohol, and can have a certain dryness from the alcohol. It
should not by sticky, syrupy or cloyingly sweet. Clean, lager character.
Mouthfeel: Full to very full bodied. Low carbonation. Significant alcohol warmth without sharp hotness. Very smooth
without harsh edges from alcohol, bitterness, fusels, or other concentrated flavors.
Overall Impression: An extremely strong, full and malty dark lager.
Ingredients: Same as doppelbock. Eisbocks are generally concentrated anywhere from 7% to 33% (by volume).
• Water: Water hardness varies from soft to moderately carbonate.
• Malt: Pale versions -Pils and/or Vienna malt; Darker ones - Munich and Vienna malts
• Hops: Noble hops
• Yeast: Clean lager yeast
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
•

6A. Cream Ale

Category: 6. Light Hybrid Beer

OG: 1.042 – 1.055 FG: 1.006 – 1.012 ABV: 4.2– 5.6%

IBU: 15 – 20 SRM: 2.5 – 5
Commercial Examples: Genesee Cream Ale, Little Kings Cream Ale (Hudepohl), Sleeman Cream Ale,
Liebotschaner Cream Ale (Lion Brewery), Dave’s Original Cream Ale (Molson), New Glarus Spotted Cow
History: An ale version of the American lager style. Produced by ale brewers to compete with lager brewers in the
Northeast and Mid-Atlantic States. Many examples are kräusened to achieve carbonation.
Aroma: Faint malt notes. A sweet, corn-like aroma and low levels of DMS are commonly found. Hop aroma low to
none. Any variety of hops may be used, but neither hops nor malt dominate. Faint esters may be present in some
examples, but are not required. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Pale straw to moderate gold color, although usually on the pale side. Low to medium head with medium
to high carbonation. Head retention may be no better than fair due to adjunct use. Brilliant, sparkling clarity.
Flavor: Low to medium-low hop bitterness. Low to moderate maltiness and sweetness, varying with gravity and
attenuation. Usually well attenuated. Neither malt nor hops prevail in the taste. A low to moderate corny flavor from
corn adjuncts is commonly found, as is some DMS. Finish can vary from somewhat dry to faintly sweet from the corn,
malt, and sugar. Faint fruity esters are optional. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Generally light and crisp, although body can reach medium. Smooth mouthfeel with medium to high
attenuation; higher attenuation levels can lend a “thirst quenching” finish. High carbonation. Higher gravity examples
may exhibit a slight alcohol warmth.
Overall Impression: A clean, well-attenuated, flavorful American lawnmower beer.
Ingredients:
• Water: Soft water preferred.
• Malt: Six-row malt, or a combination of six-row and North American two-row
• Hops: Any variety of hops can be used for bittering and finishing.
• Yeast:
• Other: Adjuncts up to 20% flaked maize in the mash, and up to 20% glucose or other sugars in the boil.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Blonde Ale

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Kölsch

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

 6B. Blonde Ale
Category: 6. Light Hybrid Beer

OG: 1.038 – 1.054 FG: 1.008 – 1.013 ABV: 3.8 – 5.5%

IBU: 15 – 28 SRM: 3–6

Commercial Examples: Redhook Blonde, Catamount Gold, Widmer Blonde Ale, Coast Range California Blonde
Ale, Fuller’s Summer Ale, Hollywood Blonde, Pete’s Wicked Summer Brew, Deschutes Cascade Golden
Aroma: Light to moderate sweet malty aroma. Low to moderate fruitiness is optional, but acceptable. May have a low
to medium hop aroma, and can reflect almost any hop variety. No diacetyl..
Appearance: Light yellow to deep gold in color. Clear to brilliant. Low to medium white head with fair to good
retention.
Flavor: Initial soft malty sweetness, but optionally some light character malt flavor (e.g., bread, toast, biscuit, wheat)
can also be present. Caramel flavors typically absent. Low to medium esters optional, but are commonly found in many
examples. Light to moderate hop flavor (any variety), but shouldn’t be overly aggressive. Low to medium bitterness,
but the balance is normally towards the malt. Finishes medium-dry to somewhat sweet. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium-full body. Medium to high carbonation. Smooth without harsh bitterness or
astringency.
Overall Impression: Easy-drinking, approachable, malt-oriented American craft beer.

Ingredients:
• Water:
• Malt: All malt, but can include up to 25% wheat malt.
• Hops: Any hop variety can be used.
• Yeast: Clean American, lightly fruity English, or Kölsch yeast.
• Other:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

6C. Kölsch
Category: 6. Light Hybrid Beer

OG: 1.044 – 1.050 FG: 1.007 – 1.011 ABV: 4.4 – 5.2%

IBU: 20 – 30 SRM: 3.5 – 5

Commercial Examples: Available in Cologne only: PJ Früh, Hellers, Malzmühle, Paeffgen, Sion, Peters, Dom;
import versions available in parts of North America: Reissdorf, Gaffel; US versions: Goose Island Summertime,
Crooked River Kölsch, Harpoon Summer Beer, Capitol City Capitol Kölsch
Aroma: Very low to no malt aroma. A pleasant, very subtle fruit aroma from fermentation (apple, cherry or pear) is
desirable, but not always present. A low noble hop aroma is optional but not out of place (it is present only in a small
minority of authentic versions). Some yeasts may give a slight winy or sulfury character (this characteristic is also
optional, but not a fault).
Appearance: Very pale gold to light gold. Authentic versions are filtered to a brilliant clarity. Has a delicate white
head that may not persist.
Flavor: Soft, rounded palate comprising of a delicate flavor balance between soft yet attenuated malt, an almost
imperceptible fruity sweetness from fermentation, and a medium-low to medium bitterness with a delicate dryness and
slight pucker in the finish (but no harsh aftertaste). One or two examples are noticeably malty-sweet up front. Some
versions can have a slightly sulfury yeast character that accentuates the dryness and flavor balance. Some versions may
have a slight wheat taste, although this is quite rare. Otherwise very clean with no diacetyl or fusels.
Mouthfeel: Smooth and crisp. Light body, although a few versions may be medium-light. Medium carbonation.
Highly attenuated.
Overall Impression: A clean, crisp, delicately balanced beer usually with very subtle fruit flavors and aromas.
Subdued maltiness throughout leads to a pleasantly refreshing tang in the finish.
Ingredients:
• Water: Extremely soft water
• Malt: German pils or pale malt. Up to 20% wheat may be used.
• Hops: German noble hops (Hallertau, Tettnang, Spalt or Hersbrucker)
• Yeast: Attenuative, clean ale yeast.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

American
Wheat or Rye
Beer
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Northern
German
Altbier
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 6D. American Wheat or Rye Beer
Category: 6. Light Hybrid Beer

OG: 1.040 – 1.055 FG: 1.008 – 1.013 ABV: 4 – 5.5%

IBU: 15 – 30 SRM: 3 – 6
Commercial Examples: Bell’s Oberon, Anchor Summer Beer, Pyramid Hefe-Weizen, Harpoon UFO Hefeweizen,
Widmer Hefeweizen, Sierra Nevada Unfiltered Wheat Beer, Anderson Valley High Rollers Wheat Beer, Redhook
Sunrye, O’Hanlon’s Original Rye Beer
Aroma: Low to moderate grainy wheat or rye character. Some malty sweetness is acceptable. Esters can be moderate
to none, although should reflect American yeast s trains. The clovey and banana aromas common to German
hefeweizens are inappropriate. Hop aroma may be low to moderate, and can have either a citrusy American or a spicy
or floral noble hop character. Slight sourness is optional. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Usually pale yellow to gold. Clarity may range from brilliant to hazy with yeast approximating the
German hefeweizen style of beer. Big, long-lasting white head.
Flavor: Light to moderately strong grainy wheat or rye flavor, which can linger into the finish. May have a moderate
malty sweetness or finish quite dry. Low to moderate hop bitterness, which sometimes lasts into the finish. Low to
moderate hop flavor (citrusy American or spicy/floral noble). Esters can be moderate to none, but should not take
on a German Hefeweizen character (banana). No clove phenols, although a light spiciness from wheat or rye is
acceptable. May have a slight tartness in the finish. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body. Medium-high to high carbonation. May have a light alcohol warmth in
stronger examples.
Overall Impression: Refreshing wheat or rye beers that can display more hop character and less yeast character than
their German cousins.
Ingredients:
• Water:
• Malt: Large proportion of wheat malt often 50% or more.
• Hops:
• Yeast: Clean American ale yeast.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

7A. Northern German Altbier

Category: 7. Amber Hybrid Beer

OG: 1.046 – 1.054 FG: 1.010 – 1.015 ABV: 4.5 – 5.2%

IBU: 25 – 40 SRM: 13 – 19

Commercial Examples: DAB Traditional, Hannen Alt, Grolsch Amber, Alaskan Amber, St. Stan’s Amber,
Schmaltz’ Alt
Aroma: Subtle malty, sometimes grainy aroma. Low to no noble hop aroma. Clean, lager character with very
restrained ester profile. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Light copper to light brown color; very clear from extended cold conditioning. Low to moderate off-
white to white head with good retention.
Flavor: Fairly bitter yet balanced by a smooth and sometimes sweet malt character that may have a rich, biscuity
and/or lightly caramelly flavor. Dry finish often with lingering bitterness. Clean, lager character sometimes with slight
sulfury notes and very low to no esters. Very low to medium noble hop flavor. No diacetyl..
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body. Moderate to moderately high carbonation. Smooth mouthfeel.
Overall Impression: A very clean and relatively bitter beer, balanced by some malt character. Generally darker,
sometimes more caramelly, and usually sweeter and less bitter than Düsseldorf Altbier.

Ingredients:
• Water:
• Malt: Typically made with a Pils base and colored with roasted malt or dark crystal.
• Hops: Noble hops
• Yeast: Attenuative, clean lager yeast.
• Other:
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A

California
Common
Beer
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Düsseldorf
Altbier
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 7B. California Common Beer
Category: 7. Amber Hybrid Beer

OG: 1.048 – 1.054 FG: 1.011 – 1.014 ABV: 4.5 – 5.5%

IBU: 30 – 45 SRM: 10 – 14

Commercial Examples: Anchor Steam, Southampton West Coast Steam Beer, Old Dominion Victory Amber,
Flying Dog Old Scratch Amber Lager
Aroma:Typically showcases the signature Northern Brewer hops (with woody, rustic or minty qualities) in moderate to high
strength. Light fruitiness acceptable. Low to moderate caramel and/or toasty malt aromatics support the hops. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Medium amber to light copper color. Generally clear. Moderate off-white head with good retention.
Flavor: Moderately malty with a pronounced hop bitterness. The malt character is usually toasty (not roasted) and
caramelly. Low to moderately high hop flavor, usually showing Northern Brewer qualities (woody, rustic, minty). Finish
fairly dry and crisp, with a lingering hop bitterness and a firm, grainy malt flavor. Light fruity esters are acceptable, but
otherwise clean. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied. Medium to medium-high carbonation.
Overall Impression: A lightly fruity beer with firm, grainy maltiness, interesting toasty and caramel flavors, and
showcasing the signature Northern Brewer varietal hop character.

Ingredients:
• Water:
• Malt: Pale ale malt, small amounts of toaste or crystal malts.
• Hops: American hops (usually Northern Brewer).
• Yeast: Lager yeast at warmer fermentation temperatures.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

7C. Düsseldorf Altbier

Category: 7. Amber Hybrid Beer

OG: 1.046 – 1.054 FG: 1.010 – 1.015 ABV: 4.5 – 5.2%

IBU: 35 – 50 SRM: 13 – 17

Commercial Examples: Altstadt brewpubs: Zum Uerige, Im Füchschen, Schumacher, Zum Schlüssel; other
examples: Diebels Alt, Schlösser Alt, Frankenheim Alt, Widmer Ur-Alt
Aroma: Clean yet robust and complex aroma of rich malt, noble hops and restrained fruity esters. The malt character
reflects German base malt varieties. The hop aroma may vary from moderate to very low, and can have a peppery,
floral or perfumy character associated with noble hops. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Orange-bronze to deep copper color, yet stopping short of brown. Brilliant clarity (may be filtered).
Thick, creamy, longlasting off-white head.
Flavor: Assertive hop bitterness well balanced by a sturdy yet clean and crisp malt character. The malt presence is
moderated by high attenuation, but considerable rich and complex malt flavors remain. Some fruity esters may survive
the lagering period. A long-lasting, dry, bittersweet or nutty finish reflects both the hop bitterness and malt
complexity. Noble hop flavor can be moderate to low. No roasted malt flavors or harshness. No diacetyl. Some yeast
strains may impart a slight sulfury character. A light minerally character is also sometimes present in the finish, but is
not required.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body. Moderate to moderately high carbonation. Smooth mouthfeel.
Overall Impression: A well balanced, bitter yet malty, clean, smooth, well-attenuated copper-colored German ale.

Ingredients:
• Water: Moderately carbonate water.
• Malt: Typically made with a Pils base and colored with roasted malt or dark crystal.
• Hops: Spalt hops are traditional, but other noble hops can also be used.
• Yeast: Clean, highly attenuative, ale yeast.
• Other:
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A

Standard/
Ordinary
Bitter
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Special/Best/
Premium
Bitter
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 8A. Standard/Ordinary Bitter
Category: 8. ENGLISH PALE ALE

OG: 1.032 – 1.040 FG: 1.007 – 1.011 ABV: 3.2 – 3.8%

IBU: 25 – 35 SRM: 4 – 14
Commercial Examples: Boddington's Pub Draught, Fuller's Chiswick Bitter, Oakham Jeffrey Hudson Bitter (JHB),
Young's Bitter, Brakspear Bitter, Adnams Bitter
Aroma: The best examples have some malt aroma, often (but not always) with a caramel quality. Mild to moderate
fruitiness is common. Hop aroma can range from moderate to none (UK varieties typically, although US varieties may
be used). Generally no diacetyl, although very low levels are allowed.
Appearance: Light yellow to light copper. Good to brilliant clarity. Low to moderate white to off-white head. May
have very little head due to low carbonation.
Flavor: Medium to high bitterness. Moderately low to moderately high fruity esters. Moderate to low hop flavor
(earthy, resiny, and/or floral UK varieties typically, although US varieties may be used). Low to medium maltiness with
a dry finish. Caramel flavors common but not required. Balance often decidedly bitter, although the bitterness should
not completely overpower the malt flavor, esters and hop flavor. Usually no diacetyl, although very low levels allowed.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium-light body. Carbonation low, yet bottled and canned examples can have mod. carb.
Overall Impression: Low gravity, low alcohol levels and low carbonation make this an easy-drinking beer. Some
can be more malt balanced, but this should not override the overall bitter impression. Drinkability is a critical
component of the style; emphasis is still on the bittering hop addition as opposed to the aggressive middle and late
hopping seen in American ales.
Ingredients:
• Water: Often medium sulfate water is used.
• Malt: Pale ale, amber, and/or crystal malts, may use a touch of black malt for color adjustment.
• Hops: English hops typical, although American and European varieties are becoming more common in the
paler examples.
• Yeast: Characterful English yeast
• Other: May use sugar adjuncts, corn or wheat.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
•

8B. Special/Best/Premium Bitter

Category: 8. ENGLISH PALE ALE

OG: 1.040 – 1.048 FG: 1.008 – 1.012 ABV: 3.8 – 4.6%

IBU: 25 – 40 SRM: 5 – 16
Commercial Examples: Fuller's London Pride, Coniston Bluebird Bitter, Timothy Taylor Landlord, Robinson’s
Northern Glory, Shepherd Neame Masterbrew Bitter, Greene King Ruddles County Bitter, RCH Pitchfork Rebellious
Bitter, Brains SA, Harviestoun Bitter and Twisted, Goose Island Honkers Ale, Rogue Younger’s Special Bitter
Aroma: The best examples have some malt aroma, often (not always) with a caramel quality. Mild to moderate
fruitiness. Hop aroma ranges from moderate to none (UK varieties typically, US varieties may be used). Generally no
diacetyl, very low levels are allowed.
Appearance: Medium gold to medium copper. Good to brilliant clarity. Low to moderate white to off-white head.
May have very little head due to low carbonation.
Flavor: Medium to high bitterness. Moderately low to moderately high fruity esters. Moderate to low hop flavor
(earthy, resiny, and/or floral UK varieties typically, although US varieties may be used). Low to medium maltiness with
a dry finish. Caramel flavors common but not required. Balance often decidedly bitter, yet the bitterness should not
completely overpower the malt flavor, esters and hop flavor. Generally no diacetyl, yet very low levels are allowed.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body. Carbonation low. Bottled and canned commercial examples can have
moderate carbonation.
Overall Impression: Flavorful, yet refreshing, session beer. Some can be more malt balanced, but this should not
override the overall bitter impression. Drinkability is a critical component of the style; emphasis is still on the bittering
hop addition as opposed to the aggressive middle and late hopping seen in American ales.
Ingredients:
• Water: Often medium sulfate water is used.
• Malt: Pale ale, amber, and/or crystal malts, may use a touch of black malt for color adjustment.
• Hops: English hops most typical. American and European varieties are becoming more common
• Yeast: Characterful English yeast.
• Other: May use sugar adjuncts, corn or wheat.
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•
A

Extra Special/
Strong Bitter
(English Pale Ale)
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Scottish Light
60/-
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 8C. Extra Special/Strong Bitter (English Pale Ale)
Category: 8. ENGLISH PALE ALE

OG: 1.048 – 1.060+ FG: 1.010 – 1.016 ABV: 4.6 – 6.2%

IBU: 30 – 50+ SRM: 6 – 18
Commercial Examples: Fullers ESB, Adnams Broadside, Shepherd Neame Bishop's Finger, Samuel Smith’s Old
Brewery Pale Ale, Bass Ale, Whitbread Pale Ale, Shepherd Neame Spitfire, Marston’s Pedigree, Black Sheep Ale,
Vintage Henley, Mordue Workie Ticket, Morland Old Speckled Hen, Greene King Abbot Ale
Aroma: Hop aroma moderately-high to moderately-low. Can use any variety of hops. Medium to medium-high malt
aroma. Low to moderately strong caramel. Medium-low to medium-high fruity esters. Usually no diacetyl, yet very low
levels allowed. May have light, secondary notes of sulfur and/or alcohol in some examples.
Appearance: Golden to deep copper. Good to brilliant clarity. Low to moderate white to off-white head. A low head
is acceptable when carbonation is also low.
Flavor: Medium-high to medium bitterness with supporting malt flavors evident. Normally has a moderately low to
somewhat strong caramelly malt sweetness. Hop flavor moderate to moderately high. Hop bitterness and flavor should
be noticeable, but should not totally dominate malt flavors. May have low levels of secondary malt flavors (nutty,
biscuity) adding complexity. Moderately-low to high fruity esters. May have low amounts of alcohol, and up to a
moderate minerally/sulfury flavor. Medium-dry to dry finish if sulfate water is used. Generally no diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium-full body. Low to moderate carbonation, although bottled commercial versions
will be higher. Stronger versions may have slight alcohol warmth but this character should not be too high.
Overall Impression: An average-strength to moderately-strong English ale. The balance may be fairly even between
malt and hops to somewhat bitter. Drinkability is a critical component of the style; emphasis is still on the bittering hop
addition and not the aggressive middle and late hopping of American ales. A rather broad style.
Ingredients:
• Water: Often medium to high sulfate water is used.
• Malt: Pale ale, amber, and/or crystal malts, may use a touch of black malt for color adjustment.
• Hops: English hops typical, although American and European varieties are becoming more common.
• Yeast: Characterful English yeast. “Burton” versions.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
•

9A. Scottish Light 60/-

Category: 9. SCOTTISH AND IRISH ALE

OG: 1.030 – 1.035 FG: 1.010 – 1.013 ABV: 2.5 – 3.2%

IBU: 10 – 20 SRM: 9 – 17
Commercial Examples: Belhaven 60/-, McEwan’s 60/-, Maclay 60/- Light (cask-only - not exported to the US)
Aroma: Low to medium malty sweetness, sometimes accentuated by low to moderate kettle caramelization. Some
have a low hop aroma, light fruitiness, low diacetyl, and/or a low to moderate peaty aroma (all are optional). The peaty
aroma is sometimes perceived as earthy, smoky or very lightly roasted.
Appearance: Deep amb er to dark copper. Usually very clear due to long, cool fermentations. Low to moderate,
creamy off-white to light tan-colored head.
Flavor: Malt is the primary flavor, but isn’t overly strong. The initial malty sweetness is usually accentuated by a low
to moderate kettle caramelization, and is sometimes accompanied by a low diacetyl component. Fruity esters are
moderate to none. Hop bitterness is low to moderate, but the balance will always be towards the malt (not always by
much). Hop flavor is low to none. A low to moderate peaty character is optional, and may be perceived as earthy or
smoky. Generally has a grainy, dry finish due to small amounts of unmalted roasted barley.
Mouthfeel: Medium-low to medium body. Low to moderate carbonation. Sometimes a bit creamy, but often quite dry
due to use of roasted barley.
Overall Impression: Cleanly malty with a drying finish, perhaps a few esters, and on occasion a faint bit of peaty
earthiness (smoke). Most beers finish fairly dry considering their relatively sweet palate, and as such have a different
balance than strong Scotch ales.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Scottish or English pale base malt. Small amounts of roasted barley add color and flavor, and lend a
dry, slightly roasty finish. No use of peat-smoked malts.
• Hops: English hops
• Yeast: Clean, relatively un-attenuative ale yeast
• Other: Some commercial brewers add small amounts of crystal, amber, or wheat malts, and adjuncts such as
sugar.
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•
A

Scottish
Heavy 70/-
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Scottish
Export 80/-
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 9B. Scottish Heavy 70/-
Category: SCOTTISH AND IRISH ALE

OG: 1.035 – 1.040 FG: 1.010 – 1.015 ABV: 3.2 – 3.9%

IBU: 10 – 25 SRM: 9 – 17
Commercial Examples: Caledonian 70/- (Caledonian Amber Ale in
the US), Belhaven 70/-, Orkney Raven Ale, Maclay 70/-
Aroma: Low to medium malty sweetness, sometimes accentuated by low to moderate kettle caramelization. Some
have a low hop aroma, light fruitiness, low diacetyl, and/or a low to moderate peaty aroma (all are optional). The peaty
aroma is sometimes perceived as earthy, smoky or very lightly roasted.
Appearance: Deep amber to dark copper. Usually very clear due to long, cool fermentations. Low to moderate,
creamy off-white to light tan-colored head.
Flavor: Malt is the primary flavor, but isn’t overly strong. The initial malty sweetness is usually accentuated by a low
to moderate kettle caramelization, and is sometimes accompanied by a low diacetyl component. Fruity esters are
moderate to none. Hop bitterness is low to moderate, but the balance will always be towards the malt (not always by
much). Hop flavor is low to none. A low to moderate peaty character is optional, and may be perceived as earthy or
smoky. Generally has a grainy, dry finish due to small amounts of unmalted roasted barley.
Mouthfeel: Medium-low to medium body. Low to moderate carbonation. Sometimes a bit creamy, but often quite dry
due to use of roasted barley.
Overall Impression: Cleanly malty with a drying finish, perhaps a few esters, and on occasion a faint bit of peaty
earthiness (smoke). Most beers finish fairly dry considering their relatively sweet palate, and as such have a different
balance than strong Scotch ales.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Scottish or English pale base malt. Small amounts of roasted barley add color and flavor, and lend a
dry, slightly roasty finish. No use of peat-smoked malts.
• Hops: English hops
• Yeast: Clean, relatively un-attenuative ale yeast
• Other: Some comm. . brewers add small amts of crystal, amber, or wheat malts, and adjuncts such as sugar.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

9C. Scottish Export 80/-

Category: 9. SCOTTISH AND IRISH ALE

OG: 1.040 – 1.054 FG: 1.010 – 1.016 ABV: 3.9 – 5.0%

IBU: 15 – 30 SRM: 9 – 17
Commercial Examples: Orkney Dark Island, Belhaven 80/-(Belhaven Scottish Ale in the US), Belhaven St.
Andrews Ale, McEwan's IPA, Caledonian 80/- Export Ale, Broughton Merlin’s Ale, Three Floyds Robert the Bruce
Aroma: Low to medium malty sweetness, sometimes accentuated by low to moderate kettle caramelization. Some
examples have a low hop aroma, light fruitiness, low diacetyl, and/or a low to moderate peaty aroma (all are optional).
The peaty aroma is sometimes perceived as earthy, smoky or very lightly roasted
Appearance: Deep amber to dark copper. Usually very clear due to long, cool fermentations. Low to moderate,
creamy off-white to light tan-colored head.
Flavor: Malt is the primary flavor, but isn’t overly strong. The initial malty sweetness is usually accentuated by a low
to moderate kettle caramelization, and is sometimes accompanied by a low diacetyl component. Fruity esters may be
moderate to none. Hop bitterness is low to moderate, but the balance will always be towards the malt (although not
always by much). Hop flavor is low to none. A low to moderate peaty character is optional, and may be perceived as
earthy or smoky. Generally has a grainy, dry finish due to small amounts of unmalted roasted barley.
Mouthfeel: Medium-low to medium body. Low to moderate carbonation. Sometimes a bit creamy, but often quite dry
due to use of roasted barley.
Overall Impression: Cleanly malty with a drying finish, perhaps a few esters, and on occasion a faint bit of peaty
earthiness (smoke). Most beers finish fairly dry considering their relatively sweet palate, and as such have a different
balance than strong Scotch ales.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Scottish or English pale base malt.
• Hops: English hops
• Yeast: Clean, relatively un-attenuative ale yeast
• Other: Small amounts of roasted barley add color and flavor, and lend a dry, slightly roasty finish.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Irish
Red Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Strong
Scotch Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 9D. Irish Red Ale
Category: SCOTTISH AND IRISH ALE

OG: 1.044 – 1.060 FG: 1.010 – 1.014

IBU: 17 – 28 SRM: 9 – 18
Commercial Examples: Moling’s Irish Red Ale, Smithwick’s Irish Ale, Kilkenny Irish Beer, Beamish Red Ale,
Caffrey’s Irish Ale, Goose Island Kilgubbin Red Ale, Murphy’s Irish Red (lager), Boulevard Irish Ale, Harpoon
Hibernian Ale
Aroma: Low to moderate malt aroma, generally caramel-like but occasionally toasty or toffee-like in nature. May have
a light buttery character (although this is not required). Hop aroma is low to none (usually not present). Quite clean.
Appearance: Amber to deep reddish copper color (most examples have a deep reddish hue). Clear. Low off-white to
tan colored head.
Flavor: Flavor: Moderate caramel malt flavor and sweetness, occasionally with a buttered toast or toffee-like quality.
Finishes with a light taste of roasted grain, which lends a characteristic dryness to the finish. Generally no flavor hops,
although some examples may have a light English hop flavor. Medium-low hop bitterness, although light use of roasted
grains may increase the perception of bitterness to the medium range. Medium-dry to dry finish. Clean and smooth
(lager versions can be very smooth). No esters.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body, although examples containing low levels of diacetyl may have a slightly
slick mouthfeel. Moderate carbonation. Smooth. Moderately attenuated (more so than Scottish ales). May have a slight
alcohol warmth in stronger versions.
Overall Impression: An easy-drinking pint. Malt -focused with an initial sweetness and a roasted dryness in the
finish.
Ingredients:
• Malt: UK/Irish
• Hops: UK/Irish
• Yeast: UK/Irish
• Other: May contain some adjuncts (corn, rice, or sugar), although excessive adjunct use will harm the
character of the beer. Generally has a bit of roasted barley to provide reddish color and dry roasted finish.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

9E. Strong Scotch Ale

Category: 9. SCOTTISH AND IRISH ALE

OG: 1.070 – 1.130 FG: 1.018 – 1.030+ ABV: 6.5 – 10%

IBU: 17 – 35 SRM: 14 – 25
Commercial Examples: Traquair House Ale, Orkney Skull Splitter, McEwan's Scotch Ale, MacAndrew's Scotch
Ale, Belhaven Wee Heavy, Broughton Old Jock, Scotch du Silly, Gordon Highland Scotch Ale, Founders Dirty Bastard
Aroma: Deeply malty, with caramel often apparent. Peaty, earthy and/or smoky secondary aromas may also be
present, adding complexity. Caramelization often is mistaken for diacetyl, which should be low to none. Low to
moderate esters and alcohol are often present in stronger versions. Hops are very low to none
Appearance: Light copper to dark brown color, often with deep ruby highlights. Clear. Usually has a large tan head,
which may not persist in stronger versions. Legs may be evident in stronger versions.
Flavor: Richly malty with kettle caramelization often apparent (particularly in stronger versions). Hints of roasted malt
or smoky flavor may be present, as may some nutty character, all of which may last into the finish. Hop flavors and
bitterness are low to medium-low, so malt impression should dominate. Diacetyl is low to none, althoughcaramelization
may sometimes be mistaken for it. Low to moderate esters and alcohol are usually present. Esters may suggest plums,
raisins or dried fruit. The palate is usually full and sweet, but the finish may be sweet to medium-dry (from light use of
roasted barley)..
Mouthfeel: Medium-full to full-bodied, with some versions (but not all) having a thick, chewy viscosity. A smooth,
alcoholic warmth is usually present and is quite welcome since it balances the malty sweetness. Moderate carbonation.
Overall Impression: Rich, malty and usually sweet, which can be suggestive of a dessert. Complex secondary malt
flavors prevent a one dimensional impression. Strength and maltiness can vary.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Well-modified pale malt, with up to 3% roasted barley. May use some crystal malt for color
adjustment
• Hops: Not native to Scotland kept to a minimum
• Water: Fairly soft water is typical
Other: crystal malt for color adjustment or a small proportion of smoked malt may add depth.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

American
Pale Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

American
Amber Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 10A. American Pale Ale
Category 10: AMERICAN ALE

OG: 1.045 – 1.060 FG: 1.010 – 1.015 ABV: 4.5 – 6%

IBU: 30 – 45+ SRM: 5 – 14
Commercial Examples: Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, Stone Pale Ale, Great Lakes Burning River Pale Ale, Full Sail Pale
Ale, Three Floyds X-Tra Pale Ale, Anderson Valley Poleeko Gold Pale Ale, Left Hand Brewing Jackman’s Pale Ale
Aroma: Usually moderate to strong hop aroma from dry hopping or late kettle additions of American hop varieties. A
citrusy hop character is common, but not required. Low to moderate maltiness supports the hops, and may optionally
show small amounts of specialty malt character (bready, toasty, biscuity). Fruity esters vary from moderate to none. No
diacetyl. Dry hopping may add grassy notes, although this should not be excessive.
Appearance: Pale golden to deep amber. Moderately large white to off-white head with good retention. Generally
quite clear. Dry-hopped versions may be slightly hazy.
Flavor: Usually a moderate to high hop flavor, often showing a citrusy American hop character (other hop varieties
may be used). Low to moderately high clean malt character supports the hop presentation, and may optionally show
small amounts of specialty malt character (bready, toasty, biscuity). The balance is typically towards the late hops and
bitterness, but the malt presence can be substantial. Caramel flavors are usually restrained or absent. Fruity esters can
be moderate to none. Moderate to high hop bitterness with a medium to dry finish. Hop flavor and bitterness often
lingers into the finish. No diacetyl. Dry hopping (if used) may add grassy notes, although should not be excessive.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body. Carbonation moderate to high. Overall smooth finish without astringency
often associated with high hopping rates.
Overall Impression: Refreshing and hoppy, yet with sufficient supporting malt.
Ingredients:
• Water: can vary in sulfate content, but carbonate content should be relatively low
• Malt: Pale ale malt, typically American two-row
• Hops: American hops, often but not always ones with a citrusy character
• Yeast: American ale yeast
• Other: Specialty grains may add character and complexity
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

10B. American Amber Ale

Category: 10. AMERICAN ALE

OG: 1.045 – 1.060 FG: 1.010 – 1.015 ABV: 4.5 – 6%

IBU: 25 – 40+ SRM: 10 – 17
Commercial Examples: Mendocino Red Tail Ale, North Coast Red Seal Ale, St. Rogue Red Ale, Avery Redpoint
Ale, Anderson Valley Boont Amber Ale, Bell's Amber, Hoptown Paint the Town Red, McNeill’s Firehouse Amber Ale
Aroma: Low to moderate hop aroma from dry hopping or late kettle additions of American hop varieties. A citrusy
hop character is common, but not required. Moderately low to moderately high maltiness balances and sometimes
masks the hop presentation, and usually shows a moderate caramel character. Esters vary from moderate to none. No
diacetyl
Appearance: Amber to coppery brown in color. Moderately large offwhite head with good retention. Generally quite
clear, although dryhopped versions may be slightly hazy.
Flavor: Moderate to high hop flavor from American hop varieties, which often but not always has a citrusy quality.
Malt flavors are moderate to strong, and usually show an initial malty sweetness followed by a moderate caramel flavor
(and sometimes other character malts in lesser amounts). Malt and hop bitterness are usually balanced and mutually
supportive. Fruity esters can be moderate to none. Caramel sweetness and hop flavor/bitterness can linger somewhat
into the medium to full finis h. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium to medium-full body. Carbonation moderate to high. Overall smooth finish without astringency
often associated with high hopping rates. Stronger versions may have a slight alcohol warmth.
Overall Impression: Like an American pale ale with more body, more caramel richness, and a balance more towards
malt than hops (although hop rates can be significant).
Ingredients:
• Malt: Pale ale malt, typically American two-row. Medium to dark crystal malts.
• Hops: American hops, often with citrusy flavors,
• Water: Water can vary in sulfate and carbonate content.
• Other: May also contain specialty grains which add additional character and uniqueness
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

American
Brown Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Mild

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

 10C. American Brown Ale
Category 10: AMERICAN ALE

OG: 1.045 – 1.060 FG: 1.010 – 1.016 ABV: 4.3 – 6.2%

IBU: 20 – 40+ SRM: 18 – 35
Commercial Examples: Brooklyn Brown Ale, Great Lakes Cleveland Brown Ale, Avery Ellie’s Brown Ale, Left
Hand Deep Cover Brown Ale, Bell’s Best Brown, North Coast Acme Brown, Lost Coast Downtown Brown
History: A strongly flavored, hoppy brown beer, originated by American home brewers. Related to American Pale and
American Amber Ales, with more of a caramel and chocolate character, which tends to balance the hop bitterness and
finish. Most commercial examples are not as aggressive as the original homebrewed versions, and some modern
Aroma: Malty, sweet and rich, which often has a chocolate, caramel, nutty and/or toasty quality. Hop aroma is
typically low to moderate. Some interpretations may feature a stronger hop aroma, a citrus American hop character,
and/or a fresh dry-hopped aroma (all are optional). Fruity esters are moderate to very low. The dark malt character is
more robust than other brown ales, yet stops short of porter-like. The malt and hops are generally balanced. Moderately
low to no diacetyl.
Appearance: Light to very dark brown color. Clear. Low to moderate off-white to light tan head.
Flavor: Medium to high ma lt flavor often caramel, toasty and/or chocolate, with medium to medium-high bitterness.
The medium to medium-dry finish provides an aftertaste of both malt and hops. Hop flavor can be light to moderate,
and may optionally have a citrus character. Very low to moderate fruity esters. Moderately low to no diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium to medium-full body. More bitter versions may have a dry, resiny impression. Moderate to
moderately high carbonation. Stronger versions may have some alcohol warmth in the finish.
Overall Impression: Can be considered a bigger, maltier, hoppier interpretation of Northern English brown ale or a
hoppier, less malty Brown Porter, often including the citrus-accented hop presence that is characteristic of American
hop varieties.
Ingredients:
• Water: Moderate carbonate water would appropriately balance the dark malt acidity
• Malt: Well-modified pale malt, either American or Continental, plus crystal and darker malts
• Hops: American hops are typical, but UK or noble hops can also be used
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

11A. Mild
Category: 11. ENGLISH BROWN ALE
OG: 1.030 – 1.038 FG: 1.008 – 1.013 ABV: 2.8 – 4.5%
IBU: 10 – 25 SRM: 12 – 25
Commercial Examples: Moorhouse Black Cat, Highgate Mild, Brain’s Dark, Banks's Mild, Coach House
Gunpowder Strong Mild, Gale’s Festival Mild, Woodforde’s Norfolk Nog, Goose Island PMD Mild
History: May have evolved as one of the elements of early porters. In modern terms, the name "mild" refers to the
relative lack of hop bitterness. Originally, the “mildness” may have referred to the fact that this beer was young and did
not yet have the moderate sourness of aged batches. Somewhat rare in England, good versions may still be found in the
Midlands around Birmingham.
Aroma: Low to moderate malt aroma, and possibly some fruitiness. Wide range of character, which can include
caramelly, grainy, toasted, nutty, chocolate, or lightly roasted. Little to no hop aroma. Very low to no diacetyl.
Appearance: Copper to dark brown or mahogany color. A few paler examples (medium amber to light brown) exist.
Generally clear, traditionally unfiltered. Low to moderate off-white to tan head. Retention head typically poor.
Flavor: Generally a malty beer with a very wide range of malt and yeast-based flavors (e.g., malty, sweet, caramel,
toffee, toast, nutty, chocolate, coffee, roast, vinous, fruit, licorice, molasses, plum, raisin). Can finish sweet or dry.
Versions with darker malts may have a dry, roasted finish. Low to moderate bitterness, enough to provide some balance
but not enough to overpower the malt. Fruity esters moderate to none. Diacetyl and hop flavor low to none.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium body. Generally low to medium-low carbonation. Roast-based versions may have a light
astringency. Sweeter versions may seem to have a rather full mouthfeel for the gravity.
Overall Impression: A light-flavored, malt-accented beer that is readily suited to drinking in quantity. Refreshing,
yet flavorful. Some versions may seem like lower gravity brown porters.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Pale English base malts (often fairly dextrinous), crystal and darker malts
• Hops: English hop varieties would be most suitable, though their character is muted
• Water: Water can vary in sulfate and carbonate content.
• Yeast: Characterful English ale yeast 3.1 – 3.8%
• Other: May use sugar adjuncts
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Southern
English
Brown
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Northern
English
Brown Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 11B. Southern English Brown
Category 11: ENGLISH BROWN ALE

OG: 1.035 – 1.042 FG: 1.011 – 1.014 ABV: 2.8 – 4.2%

IBU: 12 – 20 SRM: 19 – 35
Commercial Examples: Mann's Brown Ale (bottled, but not available in the US), Tolly Cobbold Cobnut Nut Brown
Ale
History/Comments: History: English brown ales are generally split into sub-styles along geographic lines. Southern
English (or “London-style”) brown ales are darker, sweeter, and lower gravity than their Northern cousins. Increasingly
rare. Some consider it a bottled version of dark mild.
Aroma: Malty-sweet, often with a rich, caramel or toffee-like character. Moderately fruity, often with notes of dark
fruits such as plums and/or raisins. Very low to no hop aroma. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Light to dark brown, and can be almost black. Nearly opaque, although should be relatively clear if
visible. Low to moderate off-white to tan head.
Flavor: Flavor: Deep, caramel-like malty sweetness on the palate and lasting into the finish. May have a moderate
dark fruit complexity. Low hop bitterness. Hop flavor is low to non-existent. Little or no perceivable roasty or bitter
black malt flavor. Moderately sweet finish with a smooth, malty aftertaste. Low to no diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Mouthfeel: Medium body, but residual sweetness may give a heavier impression. Low to moderately low
carbonation.
Overall Impression: Overall Impression: A luscious, malt-oriented brown ale, with a caramel, dark fruit complexity
of malt flavor. May seem somewhat like a smaller version of a sweet stout or a sweet version of a dark mild.
Ingredients:
• Water: Moderate to high carbonate water
• Malt: English pale ale malt as a base with a healthy proportion of darker caramel malts and often some
roasted malts.
• Hops: English hop varieties are most authentic, though with low flavor and bitterness almost any type could
be used.
• Yeast:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

11C. Northern English Brown Ale

Category: 11. ENGLISH BROWN ALE

OG: 1.040 – 1.052 FG: 1.008 – 1.013 ABV: 4.2 – 5.4%

IBU: 20 – 30 SRM: 12 – 22

Commercial Examples: Newcastle Brown Ale, Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown Ale, Tolly Cobbold Cobnut Special Nut
Brown Ale, Goose Island Hex Nut Brown Ale
History: English brown ales are generally split into sub-styles along geographic lines.
Aroma: Light, sweet malt aroma with toffee, nutty and/or caramel notes. A light but appealing fresh hop aroma (UK
varieties) may also be noticed. A light fruity ester aroma may be evident in these beers, but should not dominate. Very
low to no diacetyl.
Appearance: Dark amber to reddish-brown color. Clear. Low to moderate off-white to light tan head.
Flavor: Gentle to moderate malt sweetness, with a nutty, lightly caramelly character and a medium-dry to dry finish.
Malt may also have a toasted, biscuity, or toffee-like character. Medium to mediumlow bitterness. Malt-hop balance is
nearly even, with hop flavor low to none (UK varieties). Some fruity esters can be present; low diacetyl (especially
butterscotch) is optional but acceptable.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body. Medium to medium-high carbonation.
Overall Impression: Drier and more hop-oriented that southern English brown ale, with a nutty character rather than
caramel.

Ingredients:
• Water: Moderate carbonate water.
• Malt: English mild ale or pale ale malt base with caramel malts. May also have small amounts darker malts
(e.g., chocolate) to provide 12 color and the nutty character
• Hops: English hop varieties are most authentic.
• Yeast:
• Other:
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Brown
Porter
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Robust
Porter
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 12A. Brown Porter
Category 12: PORTER
OG: 1.040 – 1.05 FG: 1.008 – 1.014 ABV: 4 – 5.4%
IBU: 18 – 35 SRM: 20 – 30
Commercial Examples: Samuel Smith Taddy Porter, Fuller's London Porter, Burton Bridge Burton Porter,
Nethergate Old Growler Porter, Nick Stafford’s Nightmare Yorkshire Porter, St. Peters Old-Style Porter, Bateman’s
Salem Porter, Shepherd Neame Original Porter, Flag Porter, Yuengling Porter, Geary’s London Style Porter
History/Comments: Originating in England, porter evolved from a blend of beers. A precursor to stout. Said to have
been favored by porters and other physical laborers.
Aroma: Malt aroma with mild roastiness as well as a chocolaty quality. May also show some non-roasted malt
character in support (caramelly, grainy, bready, nutty, toffee-like and/or sweet). English hop aroma moderate to none.
Fruity esters moderate to none. Diacetyl low to none.
Appearance: Light brown to dark brown in color, often with ruby highlights when held up to light. Good clarity,
although may approach being opaque. Moderate off-white to light tan head with good to fair retention.
Flavor: Malt flavor includes a mild to moderate roastiness (frequently with a chocolate character) and often a
significant caramel, nutty, and/or toffee character. May have other secondary flavors such as coffee, licorice, biscuits or
toast in support. Should not have a significant black malt character (acrid, burnt, or harsh roasted flavors), although
small amounts may contribute a bitter chocolate complexity. English hop flavor moderate to none. Medium-low to
medium hop bitterness will vary the balance from slightly malty to slightly bitter. Usually fairly well attenuated.
Diacetyl should be moderately low to none. Moderate to low fruity esters.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body. Moderately low to moderately high carbonation.
Overall Impression: A fairly substantial English dark ale with restrained roasty characteristics.
Ingredients:
• Water: London or Dublin-type water (moderate carbonate hardness)
• Malt: May contain several malts, including chocolate and/or other dark roasted malts and caramel-type
• Hops: English hops are most common, but are usually subdued.
• Yeast: English or Irish ale yeast, or occasionally lager yeast
• Other: May contain a moderate amount of adjuncts (sugars, maize, molasses, treacle, etc.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

12B. Robust Porter

Category: 12. PORTER
OG: 1.048 – 1.065 FG: 1.012 – 1.016 ABV: 4.8 – 6%
IBU: 25 – 50+ SRM: 22 – 35+
Commercial Examples: Porter, Great Lakes Edmund Fitzgerald Porter, Sierra Nevada Porter, Bell’s Porter, Thirsty
Dog Old Leghump er, Otter Creek Stovepipe Porter, Portland Haystack Black Porter, Avery New World Porter,
Deschutes Black Butte Porter, Redhook Blackhook Porter Anchor
Aroma: Roasty aroma (often with a lightly burnt, black malt character) should be noticeable and may be
moderatelystrong. Optionally may also show some additional malt character in support (grainy, bready, toffee-like,
caramelly, chocolate, coffee, rich, and/or sweet). Hop aroma low to high (US or UK varieties). Some American
versions may be dry-hopped. Fruity esters are moderate to none. Diacetyl low to none.
Appearance: Medium brown to very dark brown, often with ruby- or garnet-like highlights. Can approach black in
color. Clarity may be difficult to discern in such a dark beer, but when not opaque will be clear (particularly when held
up to the light). Full, tan-colored head with moderately good head retention.
Flavor: Moderately strong malt flavor usually features a lightly burnt, black malt character (chocolate and/or coffee
flavors) with a bit of roasty dryness in the finish. Overall flavor may finish from dry to medium-sweet. May have a
sharp character from dark roasted grains, yet should not be overly acrid, burnt or harsh. Medium to high bitterness,
which can be accentuated by the roasted malt. Hop flavor can vary from low to moderately high and balances the
roasted malt flavors. Diacetyl low to none. Fruity esters moderate to none.
Mouthfeel: Medium to medium-full body. Moderately low to moderately high carbonation. Stronger versions may
have a slight alcohol warmth. May have a slight astringency from roasted grains- this character should not be strong.
Overall Impression: A substantial, malty dark ale with a complex and flavorful roasty character.
Ingredients:
• Malt: May contain several malts, prominently dark roasted malts and grains, which often include black
patent malt (chocolate malt and/or roasted barley may also be used in some versions)
• Hops: UK or US varieties
• Water: Water with moderate to high carbonate
• Yeast: Ale yeast can either be clean US versions or characterful English varieties
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Baltic
Porter
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Dry
Stout
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 12C. Baltic Porter
Category 12: PORTER
OG: 1.060 – 1.090 FG: 1.016 – 1.024 ABV: 5.5 – 9.5% (although 7 – 8.5% mostly)
IBU: 20 – 40 SRM: 17 – 30
Commercial Examples: Sinebrychoff Porter (Finland), Zywiec Porter (Poland), Baltika Porter (Russia), Carnegie
Stark Porter (Sweden), Dojlidy Polski (Poland), Aldaris Porteris (Latvia), Utenos Porter (Lithuania), Kožlak Porter
Aroma: Rich malty sweetness often containing caramel, toffee, nutty to deep toast, and/or licorice notes. Complex
alcohol and ester profile of moderate strength. Rreminiscent of plums, prunes, raisins, cherries or currants, with a
vinous Port-like quality. Some darker malt character that is deep chocolate, coffee or molasses but never burnt. No
hops. No sourness. Very smooth.
Appearance: Dark reddish copper to opaque dark brown (not black). Thick, persistent tan-colored head. Clear,
although darker versions can be opaque.
Flavor: As with aroma, has a rich malty sweetness with a complex blend of deep malt, dried fruit esters, and alcohol.
Has a prominent yet smooth schwarzbier-like roasted flavor that stops short of burnt. Mouth-filling and very smooth.
Clean lager character; no diacetyl. Starts sweet but darker malt flavors quickly dominates and persists through finish.
Just a touch dry with a hint of roast coffee or licorice in the finish. Malt can have a caramel, toffee, nutty, molasses
and/or licorice complexity. Light hints of black currant and dark fruits. Medium-low to medium bitterness from malt
and hops, just to provide balance. Perhaps a hint of hop flavor.
Mouthfeel: Generally quite full-bodied and smooth, with a well-aged alcohol warmth (although the rarer lower gravity
Carnegie -style versions will have a medium body and less warmth). Medium to medium-high carbonation, making it
seem even more mouth-filling. Not heavy on the tongue due to carbonation level.
Overall Impression: Often has the malt flavors reminiscent of an English brown porter and the restrained roast of a
schwarzbier, but with a higher OG and alcohol content than either. Very complex, with multi-layered flavors.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Debittered chocolate or black. Munich or Vienna baset. Brown or amber malt in historical recipes.
• Other: May contain crystal malts and/or adjuncts.
• Yeast: Generally lager yeast (cold fermented if using ale yeast).
• Hops: Continental hops.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

13A. Dry Stout

Category: 13. STOUT
OG: 1.036 – 1.050 FG: 1.007 – 1.011 ABV: 4 – 5%
IBU: 30 – 45 SRM: 25 – 40+
Commercial Examples: Guinness Draught Stout (also canned), Murphy's Stout, Beamish Stout, O’Hara’s Celtic
Stout, Dorothy Goodbody’s Wholesome Stout, Orkney Dragonhead Stout, Brooklyn Dry Stout, Old Dominion Stout,
Goose Island Dublin Stout, Arbor Brewing Faricy Fest Irish Stout
Aroma: Coffee-like roasted barley and roasted malt aromas are prominent; may have slight chocolate, cocoa and/or
grainy secondary notes. Esters medium-low to none. No diacetyl. Hop aroma low to none.
Appearance: Jet black to deep brown with garnet highlights in color. Can be opaque (if not, it should be clear). A
thick, creamy, longlasting, tan- to brown-colored head is characteristic.
Flavor: Moderate roasted, grainy sharpness, optionally with light to moderate acidic/sourness, and medium to high hop
bitterness. Dry, coffee-like finish from roasted grains. May have a bittersweet or unsweetened chocolate character in
the palate, lasting into the finish. Balancing factors may include some creaminess, medium-low to no fruitiness, and
medium to no hop flavor. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium-full body, with a creamy character. Low to moderate carbonation. For the high
hop bitterness and significant proportion of dark grains present, this beer is remarkably smooth. The perception of body
can be affected by the overall gravity with smaller beers being lighter in body. May have a light astringency from the
roasted grains, although harshness is undesirable.
Overall Impression: A very dark, roasty, bitter, creamy ale.
History: Originally reflected a fuller, creamier, more "stout" body and strength. When a brewery offered a stout and a
porter, the stout was always the stronger beer (it was originally called a “Stout Porter”). Modern versions are brewed
from a lower OG and no longer reflect a higher strength than porters.
Ingredients:
• Malt: roasted unmalted barley in addition to pale malt
• Hops: moderate to high hop bitterness
• Water: moderate carbonate hardness
• Other: Flaked unmalted barley or a small percentage (perhaps 3%) of soured beer
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Sweet
Stout
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Oatmeal
Stout
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 13B. Sweet Stout
Category 13: STOUT
OG: 1.042 – 1.056 FG: 1.010 – 1.023 ABV: 4 – 6%
IBU: 25 – 40 SRM: 30 – 40+
Commercial Examples: Mackeson's XXX Stout, Watney's Cream Stout, St. Peter’s Cream Stout, Marston’s Oyster
Stout, Samuel Adams Cream Stout, Left Hand Milk Stout
History/Comments: An English style of stout. Historically known as “Milk” or “Cream” stouts, legally this
designation is no longer permitted in England (but is acceptable elsewhere). The “milk” name is derived from the use of
lactose, or milk sugar, as a sweetener. Gravities are low in England, higher in exported and US products. Variations
exist, with the level of residual sweetness, the intensity of the roast character, and the balance between the two being
the variables most subject to interpretation.
Aroma: Mild roasted grain aroma, sometimes with coffee and/or chocolate notes. An impression of cream-like
sweetness often exists. Fruitiness can be low to moderately high. Diacetyl low to none. Hop aroma low to none.
Appearance: Very dark brown to black. Can be opaque (if not, it should be clear). Creamy tan to brown head.
Flavor: Dark roasted grains and malts dominate the flavor as in dry stout, and provide coffee and/or chocolate flavors.
Hop bitterness is moderate (lower than in dry stout). Medium to high sweetness (often from the addition of lactose)
provides a counterpoint to the roasted character and hop bitterness, and lasts into the finish. Low to moderate fruity
esters. Diacetyl low to none. The balance between dark grains/malts and sweetness can vary, from quite sweet to
moderately dry and somewhat roasty.
Mouthfeel: Medium-full to full-bodied and creamy. Low to moderate carbonation. High residual sweetness from
unfermented sugars enhances the full-tasting mouthfeel.
Overall Impression: A very dark, sweet, full-bodied, slightly roasty ale. Often tastes like sweetened espresso.
Ingredients:
• Water: High carbonate water is common
• Malt: Base of pale malt
• Others: unfermentable dextrins. Lactose, an unfermentable sugar, is frequently added to provide additional
residual sweetness and may use roasted barley, black malt, chocolate malt, crystal malt, and adjuncts such as
maize or treacle.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

13C. Oatmeal Stout

Category: 13. STOUT
OG: 1.048 – 1.065 FG: 1.010 – 1.018 ABV: 4.2 – 5.9%
IBU: 25 – 40 SRM: 22 – 40+
Commercial Examples: Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout, Young's Oatmeal Stout, Maclay’s Oat Malt Stout, Broughton
Kinmount Willie Oatmeal Stout, Anderson Valley Barney Flats Oatmeal Stout, Goose
Island Oatmeal Stout, McAuslan Oatmeal Stout, McNeill’s Oatmeal Stout, Wild Goose Oatmeal Stout
History: An English seasonal variant of sweet stout that is usually less sweet than the original, and relies on oatmeal
for body and complexity rather than lactose for body and sweetness. When judging, allow for differences in
interpretation.
Aroma: Mild roasted grain aromas, often with a coffee-like character. A light sweetness can imply a coffee-and-cream
impression. Fruitiness should be low to medium. Diacetyl medium-low to none. Hop aroma low to none (UK varieties
most common). A light oatmeal aroma is optional.
Appearance: Medium brown to black in color. Thick, creamy, persistent tan- to brown-colored head. Can be opaque
(if not, it should be clear).
Flavor: Medium sweet to medium dry palate, with the complexity of oats and dark roasted grains present. Oats can
add a nutty, grainy or earthy flavor. Dark grains can combine with malt sweetness to give the impression of milk
chocolate or coffee with cream. Medium hop bitterness with the balance toward malt. Diacetyl medium-low to none.
Hop flavor medium-low to none.
Mouthfeel: Medium-full to full body, smooth, silky, sometimes an almost oily slickness from the oatmeal. Creamy.
Medium to mediumhigh carbonation.
Overall Impression: A very dark, full-bodied, roasty, malty ale with a complementary oatmeal flavor.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Pale, caramel and dark roasted malts and grains
• Hops: bittering
• Water: some carbonate hardness
• Yeast: Ale yeast
• Other: Oatmeal
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Foreign
Extra Stout
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

American
Stout
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 13D. Foreign Extra Stout
Category 13: STOUT
OG: 1.056 – 1.075 FG: 1.010 – 1.018 ABV: 5.5 – 8%
IBU: 30 – 70 SRM: 30 – 40+
Commercial Examples: Lion Stout (Sri Lanka), ABC Stout, Dragon Stout, Royal Extra “The Lion Stout”
(Trinidad), Jamaica Stout, Guinness Extra Stout (bottled US product), Guinness Foreign Extra
Stout (bottled, not sold in the US), Coopers Best Extra Stout, Freeminer Deep Shaft Stout, Sheaf Stout
History/Comments: Originally high-gravity stouts brewed for tropical markets. Some bottled export (i.e. stronger)
versions of dry or sweet stout also fit this profile. A rather broad class of stouts.
Aroma: Roasted grain aromas moderate to high, and can have coffee, chocolate and/or lightly burnt notes. Fruitiness
medium to high. Some versions may have a sweet aroma, or molasses, licorice, dried fruit, and/or vinous aromatics.
Stronger versions can have the aroma of alcohol. Hop aroma low to none. Diacetyl low to none.
Appearance: Very deep brown to black in color. Clarity usually obscured by deep color (if not opaque, should be
clear). Large tan to brown head with good retention.
Flavor: Tropical versions can be quite sweet, while export versions can be moderately dry. Roasted grain and malt
character can be moderate to high, although sharpness of dry stout will not be present in any example. Tropical versions
can have high fruity esters, smooth dark grain flavors, and moderate bitterness. Export versions tend to have lower
esters, more assertive roast flavors, and higher bitterness. The roasted flavors of either version may taste of coffee,
chocolate, or lightly burnt grain. Little to no hop flavor. Very low to no diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium-full to full body, often with a smooth, creamy character. May give a warming impression from
alcohol presence. Moderate to moderately-high carbonation.
Overall Impression: A very dark, moderately strong, roasty ale. Tropical varieties can be quite sweet, while export
versions can be drier and fairly robust.
Ingredients:
• Other: Adjuncts and sugar to boost gravity
• Malt: Pale and dark roasted malts and grains
• Hops: Bitter
• Yeast: Ale yeast (although some tropical stouts are brewed with lager yeast)
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

13E. American Stout

Category: 13. STOUT

OG: 1.050 – 1.075 FG: 1.010 – 1.022 ABV:

IBU: 35 – 75 SRM: 30 – 40+
Commercial Examples: Sierra Nevada Stout, North Coast Old No. 38, Avery Out of Bounds Stout, Three Floyds
Black Sun Stout, Mad River Steelhead Extra Stout, Rogue Shakespeare Stout, Bell’s Kalamazoo Stout, Deschutes
Obsidian Stout, Mendocino Black Hawk Stout
Aroma: Moderate to strong aroma of roasted malts, often roasted coffee or dark chocolate quality. Burnt or charcoal
aromas are low to none. Medium to very low hop aroma, often with a citrusy or resiny American hop character. Esters
are optional, but can be present up to medium intensity. Light alcohol-derived aromatics are also optional. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Generally a jet black color, although some may appear very dark brown. Large, persistent head of light
tan to light brown in color. Usually opaque.
Flavor: Moderate to very high roasted malt flavors, often tasting of coffee, roasted coffee beans, dark or bittersweet
chocolate. May have a slightly burnt coffee ground flavor, but this character should not be prominent if present. Low to
medium malt sweetness, often with rich chocolate or caramel flavors. Medium to high bitterness. Hop flavor can be low
to high, and generally reflects citrusy or resiny American varieties. Light esters may be present but are not required.
Medium to dry finish, occasionally with a light burnt quality. Alcohol flavors can be present up to medium levels, but
smooth. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium to full body. Can be somewhat creamy, particularly if a small amount of oats have been used to
enhance mouthfeel. Can have a bit of roast-derived astringency, but this character should not be excessive. Medium-
high to high carbonation. Light to moderately strong alcohol warmth, but smooth and not excessively hot.
Overall Impression: A hoppy, bitter, strongly roasted Foreign-style Stout (of the export variety).
Ingredients:
• Malt: Varied use of dark and roasted malts, as well as caramel-type malts
• Hops: American hop varieties
• Yeast: Common American
• Other: Oatmeal may be present in low quantities
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Russian
Imperial
Stout
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

English
IPA
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 13F. Russian Imperial Stout
Category 13: STOUT
OG: 1.075 – 1.095+ FG: 1.018 – 1.030+ ABV: 8 –12+%
IBU: 50 – 90 SRM: 30 – 40+
Commercial Examples: Samuel Smith Imperial Stout, Courage Imperial Stout, Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout,
Rogue Imperial Stout, North Coast Old Rasputin Imperial Stout, Victory Storm King, Bell’s Expedition Stout, Dogfish
Head World Wide Stout, Thirsty Dog Siberian Night, Stone Imperial Stout, Avery The Czar, Founders Imperial Stout
Appearance: Color may range from very dark reddish-brown to jet black. Opaque. Deep tan to dark brown head.
Generally has a well-formed head, although head retention may be low to moderate. High alcohol and viscosity may be
visible in “legs” when beer is swirled in a glass.
Aroma/ Flavor: Rich, deep, complex and frequently quite intense, with variable amounts of roasted malt/grains,
maltiness, fruity esters, hop bitterness and flavor, and alcohol. Medium to aggressively high bitterness.
Medium-low to high hop flavor (any variety). Moderate to aggressively high roasted malt/grain flavors can suggest
bittersweet or unsweetened chocolate, cocoa, and/or strong coffee. A slightly burnt grain, burnt currant or tarry
character may be evident. Fruity esters may be low to intense, and can take on a dark fruit character (raisins,
plums, or prunes). Malt backbone can be balanced and supportive to rich and barleywine-like. Alcohol strength should
be evident. No diacetyl. The palate and finish can vary from relatively dry to moderately sweet, usually with some
lingering roastiness, hop bitterness and warming character. The balance and intensity of flavors can be affected by
aging, with some flavors becoming more subdued over time and some aged, vinous or port-like qualities developing.
Mouthfeel: Full to very full-bodied and chewy, with a velvety, luscious texture (although the body may decline with
long conditioning). Gentle smooth warmth from alcohol should be present and noticeable. Should not be syrupy and
under-attenuated. Carbonation may be low to moderate, depending on age and conditioning.
Overall Impression: An intensely flavored, big, dark ale. Roasty, fruity, and bittersweet, with a noticeable alcohol
presence. Dark fruit flavors meld with roasty, burnt, or almost tar-like sensations.
Ingredients:
• Water: Alkaline water balances the abundance of acidic roasted grain in the grist
• Malt: Pale and dark roasted malts and grains
• Yeast American or British yeast
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

14A. English IPA

Category: 14. INDIA PALE PALES (IPA)
OG: 1.050 – 1.075 FG: 1.010 – 1.018 ABV: 5-7.5%
IBU: 40 – 60 SRM: 8 – 14
Commercial Examples: Freeminer Trafalgar IPA, Hampshire Pride of Romsey IPA, Burton Bridge Empire IPA,
Samuel Smith's India Ale, Fuller's IPA, King & Barnes IPA, Brooklyn East India Pale Ale, Shipyard Fuggles IPA,
Goose Island IPA
History: Brewed to survive the voyage from England to India. The temperature extremes and rolling of the seas
resulted in a highly attenuated beer upon arrival. English pale ales were derived from India Pale Ales.
Aroma: A moderate to moderately high hop aroma of floral, earthy or fruity nature is typical, although the intensity of
hop character is usually lower than American versions. A slightly grassy dry-hop aroma. A moderate caramel-like or
toasty malt presence is common. Low to moderate fruitiness, either from esters or hops, can be present.
Appearance: Color ranges from golden amber to light copper, but most are pale to medium amber with an orange-ish
tint. Should be clear, although unfiltered dry -hopped versions may be a bit hazy. Good head stand should persist.
Flavor: Hop flavor is medium to high, with a moderate to assertive hop bitterness. Malt flavor should be medium low
to medium-high, but should be noticeable, pleasant, and support the hop aspect. The malt should show an English
character and be somewhat bready, biscuit-like, toasty, toffee-like and/or caramelly. Very low levels of diacetyl are
acceptable, and fruitiness from the fermentation or hops adds to the overall complexity. Finish is medium to dry, and
bitterness may linger into the aftertaste but should not be harsh.
Mouthfeel: Smooth, medium-light to medium-bodied mouthfeel without hop-derived astringency, although moderate
to medium-high carbonation can combine to render an overall dry sensation in the presence of malt sweetness.
Overall Impression: A hoppy, moderately strong pale ale that features characteristics consistent with the use of
English malt, hops and yeast. Has less hop character and a more pronounced malt flavor than American versions.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Pale ale malt (well-modified and suitable for single temperature infusion mashing)
• Hops: English hop varieties
• Yeast: English yeast that can give a fruity or sulfury/minerally profile
• Water: High sulfate and low carbonate water is essential to achieving a pleasant hop bitterness
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

American
IPA
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Imperial
IPA
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 14B. American IPA
Category 14: INDIA PALE ALE (IPA)
OG: 1.056 – 1.075 FG: 1.010 – 1.018 ABV: 5.5 – 7.5%
IBU: 40 – 60+ SRM: 6 – 15
Commercial Examples: Stone IPA, Victory Hop Devil, Anderson Valley Hop Ottin’, Anchor Liberty Ale, Sierra
Nevada Celebration Ale, Three Floyds Alpha King, Harpoon IPA, Bell’s Two-Hearted Ale, Avery IPA, Founder’s
Centennial IPA, Mendocino White Hawk Select IPA
Aroma: A prominent to intense hop aroma with citrus, floral, perfume-like, resinous, piney, and/or fruity character.
Many are dry hopped and can have a grassy aroma, although this is not required. Some clean malty sweetness may be
found in the background, but should be at a lower level than in English. Fruitiness, either from esters or hops, may also
be detected in some versions, although a neutral fermentation character is also acceptable. Some alcohol may be noted.
Appearance: Color ranges from medium gold to medium reddish copper; some versions can have an orange-ish tint.
Should be clear, although unfiltered dry-hopped versions may be a bit hazy. Good head stand should persist.
Flavor: Hop flavor is medium to high, and should reflect an American hop character with citrus, floral, resinous, piney
or fruity aspects. Medium-high to very high hop bitterness, although the malt backbone will support the strong hop
character to provide balance. Malt flavor should be low to medium, and clean and malty sweet although some caramel
or toasty flavors are acceptable at low levels. No diacetyl. Low fruitiness is acceptable but not required. The bitterness
may linger into the aftertaste but should not be harsh. Medium-dry to dry finish. Some clean alcohol flavor can be noted
in stronger versions. Oak is inappropriate in this style. Some sulfur may be present if sulfate water is used.
Mouthfeel: Smooth, medium-light to medium-bodied without hop-derived astringency. Moderate to medium-high
carbonation can combine to render an overall dry sensation in the presence of malt sweetness. Some smooth alcohol
warming can and should be sensed in stronger versions. Body is generally less than in English examples.
Overall Impression: A decidedly hoppy and bitter, moderately strong American pale ale.
Ingredients:
• Water: soft to moderately sulfate
• Malt: Pale ale malt
• Hops: American hops
• Yeast: American yeast that can give a clean or slightly fruity profile
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

14C. Imperial IPA

Category: 14. INDIA PALE ALE (IPA)
OG: 1.075 – 1.090+ FG: 1.012 – 1.020 ABV: 7.5 – 10%+
IBU: 60 – 100+ SRM: 8 – 15
Commercial Examples: Dogfish Head 90-minute IPA, Rogue I2PA, Stone Ruination IPA, Three Floyd’s
Dreadnaught, Russian River Pliny the Elder, Moylan’s Moylander Double IPA, Stone Arrogant Bastard and Mendocino
Eye of the Hawk.
Aroma: A prominent to intense hop aroma that can be derived from American, English and/or noble varieties. Citrusy
hop character is almost always present. Most versions are dry hopped and can have a resinous or grassy aroma,
although this is not absolutely required. Some clean malty sweetness may be found in the background. Fruitiness, either
from esters or hops, may also be detected, although a neutral fermentation character is typical. Some alcohol can
usually be noted, but it should not have a “hot” character.
Appearance: Color ranges from golden amber to medium reddish copper; some versions can have an orange-ish tint.
Should be clear, although unfiltered dry-hopped versions may be a bit hazy. Good head stand should persist.
Flavor: Hop flavor is strong and complex, and can reflect the use of different hop varieties. High to absurdly high hop
bitterness. The malt backbone will generally support the strong hop character and provide the best balance. Malt flavor
should be low to medium, and is generally clean and malty sweet although some caramel or toasty flavors are
acceptable at low levels. No diacetyl. Low fruitiness is acceptable but not required. A long, lingering bitterness is
usually present in the aftertaste but should not be harsh. Medium-dry to dry finish. A clean, smooth alcohol flavor is
usually present. Oak is inappropriate in this style. Some sulfur may be present, but most examples do not.
Mouthfeel: Smooth, medium-light to medium-full body. No harsh hop-derived astringency. Moderate to medium-high
carbonation combines to render an overall dry sensation in the presence of malt sweetness. Smooth alcohol warming.
Overall Impression: An intensely hoppy, very strong pale ale without the big maltiness and/or deeper malt flavors of
an American barleywine. Strongly hopped, but clean, lacking harshness, and a tribute to historical IPAs.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Pale ale ma lt
• Hops: complex variety of hops (English, American, noble)
• Water: soft to moderately sulfate
• Yeast: American yeast
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Weizen/
Weissbier
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Dunkelweizen
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 15A. Weizen/Weissbier
Category 15: GERM AN WHEAT AND RYE BEER
OG: 1.044 – 1.052 FG: 1.010 – 1.014 ABV: 4.3 – 5.6%
IBU: 8 – 15 SRM: 2 – 8
Commercial Examples: Schneider Weisse Original, Paulaner Hefe -Weizen, Hacker-Pschorr Weisse, Franziskaner
Hefe-Weisse, Penn Weizen, Capitol Kloster Weizen, Sudwerk Hefeweizen, Brooklyner Weisse, Aroma: Moderate to
strong phenols (clove) and fruity esters (banana). The balance and intensity of the phenol and ester components can
vary but the best examples are reasonably balanced and fairly prominent. Noble hop character ranges from low to none.
A light to moderate wheat aroma (bready or grainy) may be present but other malt characteristics should not. No
diacetyl or DMS. Optional, aromatics can include a light, citrusy tartness, a light to moderate vanilla character, and/or a
low bubblegum aroma. None of these optional characteristics should be high or dominant, but often can add to the
complexity and balance.
Appearance: Pale straw to very dark gold in color (rarely, can be as dark as amber). A very thick, moussy, long-
lasting white head is characteristic. The high protein content of wheat impairs clarity in an unfiltered beer, although the
level of haze is somewhat variable. A 17 beer “mit hefe” is also cloudy from suspended yeast sediment (which should
be roused before drinking). The filtered Krystal version has no yeast and is brilliantly clear.
Flavor: Low to moderately strong banana and clove flavor. Balance and intensity of the phenols and esters can vary
but the best examples are reasonably balanced and prominent. Optionally, a very light to moderate vanilla character
and/or low bubblegum notes to accentuate the banana flavor, sweetness and roundness; neither should be dominant.
The soft, somewhat bready or grainy flavor of wheat is complementary, as is a slightly sweet Pils malt character. Hop
flavor low to none, and hop bitterness is very low to moderately low. A tart, citrusy character from yeast and high
carbonation is often present. Well rounded, flavorful palate with a relatively dry finish. No diacetyl or DMS.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body; never heavy. Suspended yeast may increase the perception of body. The
texture of wheat imparts the sensation of a fluffy, creamy fullness that may progress to a light, spritzy finish aided by
high carbonation. Always effervescent.
Overall Impression: A pale, spicy, fruity, refreshing wheat-based ale. History: A traditional wheat-based ale
originating in Southern Germany that is a specialty for summer consumption, but generally produced year-round.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

15B. Dunkelweizen
Category: 15. GERMAN WHEAT AND RYE BEER
OG: 1.044 – 1.056 FG: 1.010 – 1.014 ABV: 4.3 – 5.6%
IBU: 10 – 18 SRM: 14 – 23
Commercial Examples: Franziskaner Dunkel Hefe -Weisse, Hacker- Pschorr Weisse Dark, Tucher Dunkles Hefe
Weizen, Ayinger Ur- Weisse, Brooklyner Dunkel-Weisse
Aroma: Moderate to strong phenols (clove) and fruity esters (banana). The balance and intensity of the phenol and
ester components can vary but the best examples are balanced and prominent. Optionally, a low to moderate vanilla
character and/or low bubblegum notes may be present, but should not dominate. Noble hop character ranges from low
to none. A light to moderate wheat aroma (bready or gra iny) may be present and is often accompanied by a caramel,
bread crust, or richer malt aroma. Any malt character is supportive and does not overpower the yeast character. No
diacetyl or DMS. A light tartness is optional but acceptable.
Appearance: Light copper to mahogany brown in color. A very thick, moussy, long-lasting off-white head. The high
protein content of wheat impairs clarity in this traditionally unfiltered style, although the level of haze is somewhat
variable. The suspended yeast sediment (which should be roused before drinking) also contributes to the cloudiness.
Flavor: Low to moderately strong banana and clove flavor. The balance and intensity of the phenol and ester
components can vary. Best examples balanced and prominent. Optionally, a very light to moderate vanilla character
and/or low bubblegum notes can accentuate the banana flavor, sweetness and roundness; neither should be dominant if
present. The soft, somewhat bready or grainy flavor of wheat is complementary, as is a richer caramel and/or
melanoidin character from Munich and/or Vienna malt. The malty richness can be low to medium-high, but shouldn’t
overpower the yeast character. A roasted malt character is inappropriate. Hop flavor is very low to none, and hop
bitterness is very low to low. A tart, citrusy character from yeast and high carbonation is sometimes present, but
typically muted. Well rounded, flavorful, often somewhat sweet palate with a relatively dry finish. No diacetyl or DMS.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium-full body. The texture of wheat as well as yeast in suspension imparts the
sensation of a fluffy, creamy fullness that may progress to a lighter finish, aided by moderate to high carbonation. The
presence of Munich and/or Vienna malts also provide an additional sense of richness and fullness. Effervescent.
Overall Impression: A moderately dark, spicy, fruity, malty, refreshing wheat-based ale. Reflecting the best yeast
and wheat character of a hefe-weizen blended with the malty richness of a Munich dunkel.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Weizenbock

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Roggenbier
(German Rye Beer)

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

 15C. Weizenbock
Category 15: GERMAN WHEAT AND RYE BEER
OG: 1.064 – 1.080+ FG: 1.015 – 1.022 ABV: 6.5 – 8.0%+
IBU: 15 – 30 SRM: 12 – 25
Commercial Examples: Schneider Aventinus, Schneider Aventinus Eisbock, Erdinger Pikantus, Mahr’s Der Weisse
Bock, Pyramid Weizenbock, DeGroen’s Weizenbock
Aroma: Rich, bock-like melanoidins and bready malt combined with powerful aroma of dark fruit (plums, prunes,
raisins or grapes). Moderate to strong phenols (vanilla and/or clove) add complexity, and some banana esters may also
be present. A moderate aroma of alcohol is common, although never solventy. No hop aroma, diacetyl or DMS.
Appearance: Dark amber to dark, ruby brown in color. A very thick, moussy, long-lasting light tan head is
characteristic. The high protein content of wheat impairs clarity in this traditionally unfiltered style, although the level
of haze is somewhat variable. The suspended yeast sediment (which should be roused) contributes to the cloudiness.
Flavor: A complex marriage of rich, bock-like melanoidins, dark fruit, spicy clove-like phenols, light banana and/or
vanilla, and a moderate wheat flavor. The malty, bready flavor of wheat is further enhanced by the copious use of
Munich and/or Vienna malts. May have a slightly sweet palate, and a light chocolate character is sometimes found
(roasted character is inappropriate). A faintly tart character may optionally be present. Hop flavor is absent, and hop
bitterness is low. The wheat, malt, and yeast character dominate the palate, and the alcohol helps balance the finish.
Well-aged examples may show some sherry-like oxidation as a point of complexity. No diacetyl or DMS.
Mouthfeel: Medium-full to full body. A creamy sensation is typical, as is the warming sensation of substantial alcohol
content. The presence of Munich and/or Vienna malts also provide an additional 18 sense of richness and fullness.
Moderate to high carbonation. Never hot or solventy.
Overall Impression: A strong, malty, fruity, wheat-based ale combining the best flavors of a dunkelweizen and the
rich strength and body of a bock.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Malted wheat (at least 50% up to 70%), with the remainder being Munich- and/or Vienna-type barley
malts
• Hops: small amount of noble hops
• Yeast: Weizen ale
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

15D. Roggenbier (German Rye Beer)

Category: 15: GERMAN WHEAT AND RYE BEER

OG: 1.046 – 1.056 FG: 1.010 – 1.014 ABV: 4.5 – 6%

IBU: 10 – 20 SRM: 14 – 19
Commercial Examples: Paulaner Roggen (no longer imported), Bürgerbräu Wolznacher Roggenbier
History: A specialty beer originally brewed in Regensburg, Bavaria as a more distinctive variant of a dunkelweizen
using malted rye instead of malted wheat.
Aroma: Light to moderate spicy rye aroma intermingled with light to moderate weizen yeast aromatics (spicy clove
and fruity esters, either banana or citrus). Light noble hops are acceptable. Can have a somewhat acidic aroma from rye
and yeast. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Light coppery-orange to very dark reddish or copperybrown color. Large creamy off-white to tan head,
quite dense and persistent (often thick and rocky). Cloudy, hazy appearance.
Flavor: Grainy, moderately-low to moderately-strong spicy rye flavor, often having a hearty flavor reminiscent of rye
or pumpernickel bread. Medium to medium-low bitterness allows an initial malt sweetness (sometimes with a bit of
caramel) to be tasted before yeast and rye character takes over. Low to moderate weizen yeast character (banana, clove,
and sometimes citrus), although the balance can vary. Mediumdry, grainy finish with a tangy, lightly bitter (from rye)
aftertaste. Low to moderate noble hop flavor acceptable, and can persist into aftertaste. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium to medium-full body. High carbonation. Light tartness optional.
Overall Impression: A dunkelweizen made with rye rather than wheat, with a greater body and light finishing hops.

Ingredients:
• Malt: Malted rye typically constitutes 50% or greater of the grist (some versions have 60-65% rye).
Remainder of grist can include pale malt, Munich malt, wheat malt, crystal malt
• Hops: Light usage of noble hops
• Yeast: Weizen yeast
• Other: Debittered dark malts for color
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Witbier

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Belgian
Pale Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 16A. Witbier
Category 16. BELGIAN AND FRENCH ALE
OG: 1.044 – 1.052 FG: 1.008 – 1.012 ABV: 4.5 – 5.5% (5% is most typical)
IBU: 10 – 20 SRM: 2 – 4
Commercial Examples: Hoegaarden Wit, Vuuve 5, Blanche de Bruges, Blanche de Bruxelles, Brugs Tarwebier,
Sterkens White Ale, Celis White, Blanche de Brooklyn, Great Lakes Holy Moses, Blue Moon Belgian White
Aroma: Moderate sweetness (often notes of honey and/or vanilla) with light, grainy, spicy wheat aromatics, often with
a bit of tartness. Moderate perfumy coriander, often with a complex herbal, spicy, or peppery note in the background.
Moderate zesty, orangey fruitiness. A low spicy-herbal hop aroma optional, but never overpowers the other
characteristics. No diacetyl. Vegetal, celery-like, or ham-like aromas are inappropriate. Spices should blend in with
fruity, floral and sweet aromas and should not be overly strong.
Appearance: Very pale straw to very light gold in color. Very cloudy from starch haze and/or yeast, which gives it a
milky, whitish-yellow appearance. Dense, white, moussy head. Head retention should be quite good.
Flavor: Pleasant sweetness (honey and/or vanilla) and a zesty, orange-citrusy fruitiness. Refreshingly crisp with a dry,
often tart, finish. Can have a low wheat flavor. Optionally has a very light lactic -tasting sourness. Herbal-spicy flavors
are common but not overpowering, and can taste moderately of coriander and other spices at a more subtle level. A
spicy-earthy hop flavor is low to none, and never gets in the way of the spices. Hop bitterness is low to medium-low,
and doesn’t interfere with refreshing flavors of fruit and spice, nor does it persist into the finish. Bitterness from orange
pith should not be present. Vegetal, celery-like, ham-like, or soapy flavors are inappropriate. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body, often having a smoothness and light creaminess from unmalted wheat and
the occasional oats. Despite body and creaminess, finishes dry and often a bit tart. Effervescent character from high
carbonation. Refreshing, from carbonation, light acidity, and lack of bitterness in finish. No harshness or astringency
from orange pith. Should not be overly dry and thin, nor should it be thick and heavy.
Overall Impression: A refreshing, elegant, tasty, moderate-strength wheat-based ale.
Ingredients:
Malt: About 50% unmalted wheat (traditionally soft white winter wheat) and 50% pale barley malt (usually pils malt)
Others: 5-10% raw oats, spices (coriander and Curaçao or sometimes sweet orange peel) limited lactic fermentation, or
the actual addition of lactic acid
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

16B. Belgian Pale Ale

Category: 16. BELGIAN AND FRENCH ALE

OG: 1.048 – 1.054 FG: 1.010 – 1.014 ABV: 4.8 – 5.5%

IBU: 20 – 30 SRM: 8 – 14
Commercial Examples: De Koninck, Speciale Palm, Dobble Palm, Ginder Ale, Op-Ale, Vieux-Temps, Brewer’s
Art House Pale Ale, Ommegang Rare Vos (unusual in its 6.5% ABV strength)
Aroma: Prominent aroma of malt with moderate fruity character and low hop aroma. Toasty, biscuity malt aroma.
May have an orange- or pear-like fruitiness though not as fruity/citrusy as many other Belgian ales. Distinctive floral or
spicy, low to moderate strength hop character optionally blended with background level peppery, spicy phenols. No
diacetyl.
Appearance: Amber to copper in color. Clarity is very good. Creamy, rocky, white head often fades more quickly
than other Belgian beers.
Flavor: Fruity and lightly to moderately spicy with a soft, smooth malt and relatively light hop character and low to
very low phenols. May have an orange- or pear-like fruitiness, though not as fruity/citrusy as many other Belgian ales.
Has an initial soft, malty sweetness with a toasty, biscuity, nutty malt flavor. The hop flavor is low to none. The hop
bitterness is medium to low, and is optionally complemented by low amounts of peppery phenols. There is a
moderately dry to moderately sweet finish, with hops becoming more pronounced in those with a drier finish.
Mouthfeel: Medium to medium-light body. Alcohol level is restrained, and any warming character should be low if
present. No hot alcohol or solventy character. Medium carbonation.
Overall Impression: A fruity, moderately malty, somewhat spicy, easy-drinking, copper-colored ale.
History: Produced by breweries with roots as far back as the mid- 1700s, the most well-known examples were
perfected after the Second World War with some influence from Britain, including hops and yeast strains
Ingredients:
• Water:
• Malt: Pilsner or pale ale malt and Vienna and Munich malts
• Hops: Noble hops, Styrian Goldings, East Kent Goldings or Fuggles
• Yeast: Yeasts prone to moderate production of phenols
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Saison

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Bière de
Garde
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 16C. Saison
Category 16. BELGIAN AND FRENCH ALE
OG: 1.048 – 1.080 FG: 1.010 – 1.016 ABV: 5 – 8.5%
IBU: 25 – 45 SRM: 5 – 12
Commercial Examples: Saison Dupont, Foret and Moinette Blonde; Fantome Saison(s); Saison de Pipaix and La
Folie; Saison Silly; Saison Regal; Saison Voisin; Lefebvre Saison 1900; Ellezelloise Saison 2000; Brooklyn Saison
Aroma: High fruitiness with low to moderate hop aroma and moderate to no herb, spice and alcohol aroma. Fruity
esters dominate the aroma and are often reminiscent of citrus fruits. A low to medium spicy or floral hop aroma is
usually present. A moderate spice aroma complements the other aromatics. When phenolics are present they tend to be
peppery rather than clove-like. A low to moderate sourness or acidity may be present, but should not overwhelm. Spice,
hop and sour aromatics typically increase with the strength of the beer. Alcohols are soft, spicy and low in intensity,
and should not be hot or solventy. The malt character is light. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Often a distinctive pale orange- may be golden or amber in color. There is no correlation between
strength and color. Long-lasting, dense, rocky white head resulting in characteristic “Belgian lace” on the glass as it
fades. Clarity is poor to good though haze is not unexpected in this type of unfiltered farmhouse beer. Effervescent.
Flavor: Combination of fruity and spicy flavors supported by a soft malt character, a low to moderate alcohol presence
and tart sourness. The fruitiness is frequently orange- or lemon-like. The addition of spices serve to add complexity.
Low peppery yeast-derived phenols may be present instead of or in addition to spice additions. Hop flavor is low to
moderate, and is generally spicy. Hop bitterness may be moderate to high, but should not overwhelm fruity esters,
spices, and malt. Malt character is light but provides a sufficient background for the other flavors. A low to moderate
tart sourness may be present, but should not overwhelm other flavors. Spices, hop bitterness and flavor, and sourness
commonly increase with the strength of the beer while sweetness decreases. No hot alcohol or solventy character.
Substantial carbonation and bitterness give a dry finish with a long, bitter, sometimes spicy aftertaste. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium body. Alcohol level can be medium to medium-high, though the warming character is
low to medium. No hot alcohol or solventy character. Very high carbonation with an effervescent quality. There is
enough prickly acidity on the tongue to balance the dry finish. A low to moderate tart character may be present but
should be refreshing and not to the point of puckering.
Overall Impression: A medium to strong ale with a distinctive yelloworange color, highly carbonated, well hopped
fruity and dry with a quenching acidity.
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16D. Bière de Garde

Category: 16. BELGIAN AND FRENCH ALE
OG: 1.060 – 1.080 FG: 1.012 – 1.018 ABV: 6 – 8%
IBU: 20 – 30 SRM: 6 – 19
Commercial Examples: Jenlain (brown), St. Amand (brown), Ch’Ti Brun (brown), Ch’Ti Blond (blond), La
Choulette (all 3 versions), La Choulette Bière des Sans Culottes (blonde), Saint Sylvestre 3 Monts (blonde), Biere
Nouvelle (brown), Castelain (blonde), Jade (amber), Brasseurs Bière de Garde (amber)
Aroma: Prominent malty sweetness, often with a complex, light to moderate toasty character. Low to moderate esters.
Little to no hop aroma (may be a bit spicy). Commercial versions will often have a 20 musty, woodsy, cellar-like
character that is difficult to achieve in homebrew. Paler versions will still be malty but will lack richer, deeper
aromatics and may have a bit more hops. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Three main variations exist (blond, amber and brown), so color can range from golden blonde to
reddish-bronze to chestnut brown. Clarity is good to poor, although haze is not unexpected in this type of often
unfiltered beer. Well-formed head, generally white to offwhite (varies by beer color), supported by high carbonation.
Flavor: Medium to high malt flavor often with a toasty, toffee-like or caramel sweetness. Malt flavors and complexity
tend to increase as beer color darkens. Low to moderate esters and alcohol flavors. Medium-low hop bitterness provides
some support, but the balance is always tilted toward the malt. The finish is mediu m-dry and malty. Alcohol can
provide some additional dryness in the finish. Low to no hop flavor, although paler versions can have slightly higher
levels of spicy hop flavor (which can also come from the yeast). Smooth, welllagered character. No diacetyl
Mouthfeel: Medium to medium-full body, often with a smooth, silky character. Moderate to high carbonation.
Moderate alcohol, but should be very smooth and never hot.
Overall Impression: A fairly strong, malty, lagered artisanal farmhouse ale.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Base malts vary by beer color, but usually include pale, Vienna and Munich types. Darker versions
will have richer malt complexity and sweetness from crystal type malts
• Hops: Floral or spicy continental hops.
• Yeast: Lager or ale yeast fermented
• Water: Soft water
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Belgian
Specialty
Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Berliner
Weisse
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 16E. Belgian Specialty Ale
Category 16: BELGI AN AND FRENCH ALE
OG: varies FG: varies ABV: varies
IBU: varies SRM: varies
Commercial Examples: Orval; De Dolle’s Arabier, Oerbier, Boskeun and Still Nacht; La Chouffe, McChouffe,
Chouffe Bok and N’ice Chouffe; Ellezelloise Hercule Stout and Quintine Amber; Unibroue Ephemere, Maudite, Don
de Dieu, etc.; Minty; Zatte Bie; Caracole Amber, Saxo and Nostradomus; Silenrieu Sara and Joseph; Fantôme Black
Ghost and Speciale Noël; St. Fullien Noël; Gouden Carolus Noël; Affligem Nöel; Guldenburg and Pere Noël; De
Ranke XX Bitter; Bush (Scaldis); Grottenbier; La Trappe Quadrupel; Weyerbacher QUAD; and many more
History/Comments: Unique beers of small, independent Belgian breweries that have come to enjoy local popularity
but may be far less well-known outside of their own regions. Many have attained “cult status” in the U.S and now owe
a significant portion of their sales to export. THE BREWER MUST SPECIFY EITHER THE BEER BEING CLONED,
THE NEW STYLE BEING PRODUCED OR THE SPECIAL INGREDIENTS OR PROCESSES USED. This is a
catch-all category for any Belgian-style beer not fitting any other Belgian style.
Aroma: Variable. Most exhibit varying amounts of fruity esters, spicy phenols and/or yeast-borne aromatics. Aromas
from actual spice additions may be present. Hop aroma may be none to high, and may include a dry-hopped character.
Malt aroma may be low to high, and may include character of non-barley grains such as wheat or rye. Some may
include aromas of Belgian microbiota, most commonly Brettanomyces and/or Lactobacillus. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Variable. Color varies considerably from pale gold to very dark. Clarity may be hazy to clear. Head
retention is usually good. Generally moderate to high carbonation.
Flavor: Variable. A great variety of flavors are found in these beers. Maltiness may be light to quite rich. Hop flavor
and bitterness may be low to high. Spicy flavors may be imparted by yeast (phenolics) and/or actual spice additions.
May include characteristics of grains other than barley, such as wheat or rye. May include flavors produced by Belgian
microbiota such as Brettanomyces or Lactobacillus. May include flavors from adjuncts such as candi sugar or honey.
Mouthfeel: Variable. Some are well-attenuated, thus fairly lightbodied for their original gravity, while others are thick
and rich. Most are moderately to highly carbonated. A warming sensation from alcohol may be present in stronger
examples. A “mouth puckering” sensation may be present from acidity.
Overall Impression: Variable. This category encompasses a wide range of Belgian ales produced by truly artisanal
brewers more concerned with creating unique products than in increasing sales.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

17A. Berliner Weisse

Category: 17. SOUR ALE

OG: 1.028 – 1.032 FG: 1.004 – 1.006 ABV: 2.8 – 3.6%

IBU: 3– 8 SRM: 2 – 3
Commercial Examples: Schultheiss Berliner Weisse, Berliner Kindl Weisse, Nodding Head Berliner Weisse
History: A regional specialty of Berlin; referred to by Napoleon's troops in 1809 as "the Champagne of the North" due
to its lively and elegant character. Only two traditional breweries still produce the product. In Germany, it is classified
as a Schankbier denoting a small beer of starting gravity in the range 7-8°P. Often served with the addition of a shot of
sugar syrups (‘mit schuss’) flavored with raspberry (‘himbeer’) or woodruff (‘waldmeister’) or even mixed with Pils to
counter the substantial sourness. Has been described by some as the most purely refreshing beer in the world.
Aroma: A sharply sour, somewhat acidic character is dominant. Can have up to a moderately fruity character. The
fruitiness may increase with age and a flowery character may develop. A mild Brettanomyces aroma may be present.
No hop aroma, diacetyl, or DMS.
Appearance: Very pale straw in color. Clarity ranges from clear to somewhat hazy. Large, dense, white head. Always
effervescent.
Flavor: Clean lactic sourness dominates and can be quite strong, although not so acidic as a lambic. Some
complementary bready or 21 grainy wheat flavor is generally noticeable. Hop bitterness is very low. A mild
Brettanomyces character may be detected, as may a restrained fruitiness (both are optional). No hop flavor. No diacetyl
or DMS.
Mouthfeel: Light body. Very dry finish. High carbonation. No sensation of alcohol.
Overall Impression: A very pale, sour, refreshing, low-alcohol wheat ale.

Ingredients:
• Malt: Wheat malt content is typically well under 50% of the grist (generally 30%) with the remainder being
Pilsner malt
• Yeast: top-fermenting yeast and Lactobacillus delbruckii provides the sharp sourness
• Other: A turbid mash is traditional, although some homebrewers use a sour mash
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Flanders
Red Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Flanders
Brown Ale/
Oud Bruin
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 17B: Flanders Red Ale
Category 17: SOUR ALE
OG: 1.046 – 1.054 FG: 1.008 – 1.016 ABV: 5 – 5.5%
IBU: 15 – 25 SRM: 10 – 16
Commercial Examples: Rodenbach Klassiek, Rodenbach Grand Cru, Bellegems Bruin, Duchesse de Bourgogne,
New Belgium La Folie, Petrus Oud Bruin, Southampton Public k House Flanders Red Ale, Verhaege Vichtenaar
History/Comments: The indigenous beer of West Flanders, typified by the products of the Rodenbach brewery,
established in 1820 in West Flanders but reflective of earlier brewing traditions. The beer is aged for up to two years,
often in huge oaken barrels which contain the resident bacteria necessary to sour the beer. It was once common in
Belgium and England to blend old beer with young to balance the sourness and acidity found in aged beer.
Aroma: Complex fruitiness with complementary malt. Fruitiness is high, and reminiscent of black cherries, oranges,
plums or red currants. There is often some vanilla and/or chocolate notes. Spicy phenols can be present in low amounts
for complexity. The sour, acidic aroma ranges from complementary to intense. No hop aroma. Diacetyl is perceived
only in very minor quantities, if at all, as a complementary aroma.
Appearance: Deep red, burgundy to reddish-brown in color. Good clarity. Average to good head retention.
Flavor: Intense fruitiness commonly includes plum, orange, black cherry or red currant flavors. A mild vanilla and/or
chocolate character is often present. Spicy phenols can be present in low amounts for complexity. Sour, acidic character
ranges from complementary to intense. Rich, sweet flavors range from complementary to prominent. Generally as the
sour character increases, the sweet character blends to more of a background flavor (and vice versa). No hop flavor.
Restrained hop bitterness. An acidic, tannic bitterness is often present in low to moderate amounts, and adds a red wine-
like character. Diacetyl is perceived only in very minor quantities, if at all, as a complementary flavor.
Mouthfeel: Medium bodied. Low to medium carbonation. Low to medium astringency, like a well-aged red wine,
often with a prickly acidity. Deceivingly light and crisp on the palate a somewhat sweet finish is not uncommon.
Overall Impression: A complex, sour, red wine-like Belgian-style ale.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Vienna and/or Munich malts and a small amount of Special B with up to 20% flaked corn or corn grits
• Hops: Low alpha acid continental or British hops
• Others: Saccharomyces, Lactobacillus and Brettanomyces (and acetobacters)
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

17C. Flanders Brown Ale/Oud Bruin

Category: 17. SOUR ALE

OG: 1.043 – 1.077 FG: 1.012 – 1.016 ABV: 4 – 8%

IBU: 15 – 25 SRM: 15 – 20
Commercial Examples: Liefman’s Goudenband, Liefman’s Odnar, Liefman’s Oud Bruin, Ichtegem Old Brown
Aroma: Complex combination of fruity esters and rich malt character. Esters commonly reminiscent of raisins, plums,
figs, dates, black cherries or prunes. A malt character of caramel, toffee, orange, treacle or chocolate is also common.
Spicy phenols can be present in low amounts for complexity. A sherry-like character may be present and generally
denotes an aged example. A low sour aroma may be present, and can modestly increase with age but should not grow to
a noticeable acetic/vinegary character. Hop aroma absent. Diacetyl is perceived only in very minor quantities, if at all,
as a complementary aroma.
Appearance: Dark reddish-brown to brown in color. Good clarity. Average to good head retention.
Flavor: Malty with fruity complexity and some caramelization character. Fruitiness commonly includes dark fruits
such as raisins, plums, figs, dates, black cherries or prunes. A malt character of caramel, toffee, orange, treacle or
chocolate is also common. Spicy phenols can be present in low amounts for complexity. A slight sourness often
becomes more pronounced in well-aged e xamples, along with some sherry-like character, producing a “sweet-and-
sour” profile. The sourness should not grow to a notable acetic/vinegary character. Hop flavor absent. Restrained hop
bitterness. Low oxidation is appropriate as a point of complexity. Diacetyl is perceived only in very minor quantities, if
at all, as a complementary flavor.
Mouthfeel: Medium to medium-full body. Low to moderate carbonation. No astringency with a sweet and tart finish.
Overall Impression: A malty, fruity, aged, somewhat sour Belgianstyle brown ale.
Ingredients:
• Malt: base of Pils malt with judicious amounts of crystal-type malts (CaraMunich and CaraVienne,
typically) and sometimes a tiny bit of black or roast malt.
• Hops: Low alpha acid continental or British hops
• Water: high in carbonates Magnesium in the water accentuates the sourness.
• Other: flaked maize, sugar, Saccharomyces and Lactobacillus (and acetobacters)
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Straight
(Unblended)
Lambic
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Gueuze

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

 17D. Straight (Unblended) Lambic
Category 17: SOUR ALE
OG: 1.040 – 1.054 FG: 1.000 – 1.010 ABV: 5 – 6.5%
IBU: up to 10 (approx) SRM: 3 – 7
Commercial Examples: The only bottled version readily available is Cantillon Grand Cru Bruocsella
Aroma: A decidedly sour/acidic aroma is often dominant in young examples, but may be more subdued with age as it
blends with aromas described as barnyard, earthy, goaty, hay, horsey, and horse blanket. A mild oak and/or citrus
aroma is considered favorable. An enteric, smoky, cigar-like, or cheesy aroma is unfavorable. Older versions are
commonly fruity with aromas of apples or even honey. No hop aroma. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Pale yellow to deep golden in color. Age tends to darken the beer. Clarity is hazy to good. Younger
versions are often cloudy, while older ones are generally clear. Head retention is generally poor.
Flavor: Young examples are often noticeably sour and/or lactic, but aging can bring this character more in balance
with the malt, wheat and barnyard characteristics. Fruity flavors are simpler in young lambics and more complex in the
older examples, where they are reminiscent of apples or other light fruits, rhubarb, or honey. Some oak or citrus flavor
(often grapefruit) is occasionally noticeable. An enteric, smoky or cigar-like character is undesirable. Hop bitterness is
low to none. No hop flavor. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium-light body. In spite of the low finishing gravity, the many mouth-filling flavors prevent
the beer from tasting like water. Lambics dry with age, which makes dryness a reasonable indicator of age. Has a
medium to high tart, puckering quality without being sharply astringent. Virtually to completely uncarbonated.
Overall Impression: Complex, sour/acidic, pale, wheat-based ale fermented by a variety of Belgian microbiota.
History/Comments: Spontaneously fermented sour ales from the area in and around Brussels (the Senne Valley)
stem from a farmhouse brewing tradition several centuries old. Their numbers are constantly dwindling.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Unma lted wheat (30-40%), pilsner malt
• Hops: aged hops
• Yeast: Saccharomyces, Brettanomyces, Pediococcus and Lactobacillus
• Others: attempt to recreate the effects of the dominant microbiota of Brussels and the surrounding countryside
of the Senne River valley
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17E. Gueuze
Category: 17. SOUR ALE
OG: 1.040 – 1.060 FG: 1.000 – 1.006 ABV: 5-8%
IBU: up to 10 (approx) SRM: 3 – 7
Commercial Examples: Boon Oude Gueuze, Boon Oude Gueuze Marriage Parfait, De Cam Gueuze, De Cam/Drei
Fonteinen Millennium Gueuze, Drei Fonteinen Oud Gueuze, Cantillon Gueuze, Hanssens Gueuze, Lindemans Gueuze
Cuvée René, Girardin Gueuze (Black Label), Mort Subite (Unfiltered) Gueuze, Oud Beersel Oude Gueuze
Aroma: A moderately sour/acidic aroma blends with aromas described as barnyard, earthy, goaty, hay, horsey, and
horse blanket. While some may be more dominantly sour/acidic, balance is the key and denotes a better gueuze.
Commonly fruity with aromas of citrus fruits (grapefruit), apples or other light fruits, rhubarb, or honey. A very mild
oak aroma is favorable. An enteric, smoky, cigar-like, or cheesy aroma is unfavorable. No hop aroma. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Golden in color. Clarity is excellent (unless the bottle was shaken). A thick rocky, mousse-like, white
head seems to last forever. Always effervescent.
Flavor: A moderately sour/acidic character is classically in balance with the malt, wheat and barnyard characteristics.
A low, complementary sweetness may be present but higher levels are uncharacteristic. While some may be more
dominantly sour, balance is the key and denotes a better gueuze. A varied fruit flavor is common, and can have a
honey-like character. A mild vanilla and/or oak flavor is occasionally noticeable. An enteric, smoky or cigar-like
character is undesirable. Hop bitterness is generally absent but a very low hop bitterness may occasionally be
perceived. No hop flavor. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium-light body. In spite of the low finishing gravity, the many mouth-filling flavors prevent
the beer from tasting like water. Has a low to high tart, puckering quality without being sharply astringent. Some
versions have a low warming character. Highly carbonated.
Overall Impression: Complex, pleasantly sour/acidic, balanced, pale, wheat-based ale fermented by microbiota.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Unmalted wheat (30-40%), pilsner malt
• Hops: (surannes) hops (aged 3 years)
• Yeast: Pure cultures of Saccharomyces, Brettanomyces, Pediococcus and Lactobacillus
• Other: Cultures taken from bottles
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Fruit
Lambic
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Belgian
Blond Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 17F. Fruit Lambic
Category 17: SOUR ALE
OG: 1.040 – 1.060 FG: 1.000 – 1.010 ABV: 5 – 7%
IBU: up to 10 (approx) SRM: 3 – 7 (varies w/ fruit)
Commercial Examples: Boon Framboise Marriage Parfait, Boon Kriek Marriage Parfait, Boon Oude Kriek,
Cantillon Fou Fonne (apricot), Cantillon Kriek, Cantillon Lou Pepe Kriek, Cantillon Lou Pepe Framboise, Cantillon
Rose de Gambrinus, Cantillon St. Lamvinus (merlot grape), Cantillon Vigneronne (Muscat grape), De Cam Oude Kriek
Aroma: The fruit which has been added to the beer should be the dominant aroma. A low to moderately sour/acidic
character blends with aromas described as barnyard, earthy, goaty, hay, horsey, and horse blanket (and thus should be
recognizable as a lambic). The fruit aroma commonly blends with the other aromas. An enteric, smoky, cigar-like, or
cheesy aroma is unfavorable. No hop aroma. No diacetyl.
Appearance: The variety of fruit generally determines the color though lighter-colored fruit may have little effect on
the color. The color intensity may fade with age. Clarity is often good, although some fruit will not drop bright. A thick
rocky, mousse-like head, sometimes a shade of fruit, is generally long-lasting. Always effervescent.
Flavor: The fruit added should be evident. A low to moderate sour and more commonly acidic character is present.
The classic barnyard characteristics may be low to high. When young, the beer will present its full fruity taste. As it
ages, the lambic taste will become dominant at the expense of the fruit character. A low, complementary sweetness may
be present, but higher levels are uncharacteristic. A mild vanilla and/or oak flavor is occasionally noticeable. An
enteric, smoky or cigar-like character is undesirable. Hop bitterness generally absent. No hop flavor. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium-light body. In spite of the low finishing gravity, the many mouth-filling flavors prevent
the beer from tasting like water. Has a low to high tart, puckering quality without being sharply astringent. Some
versions have a low warming character. Highly carbonated.
Overall Impression: Complex, fruity, pleasantly sour/acidic, balanced, pale, wheat-based ale fermented by a variety
of Belgian microbiota. A lambic with fruit, not just a fruit beer.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Unmalted wheat (30-40%), pilsner malt
• Hops: (surannes) hops (aged 3 years)
• Yeast: pure cultures including Saccharomyces,Brettanomyces, Pediococcus and Lactobacillus
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

18A. Belgian Blond Ale

Category: 18. BELGIAN STRONG ALE

OG: 1.062 – 1.075 FG: 1.008 – 1.016 ABV: 6 – 7.5% (6.5 – 7% is typical)
IBU: 20 – 30 SRM: 4– 6

Commercial Examples: Leffe Blond, Affligem Blond, La Trappe (Koningshoeven) Blond, Grimbergen Blond, Val-
Dieu Blond, Straffe Hendrik Blonde, Paten Lieven Blond Abbey Ale
History: Relatively recent development to further appeal to European Pils drinkers, becoming more popular as it is
widely marketed and distributed.
Aroma: Light earthy or spicy hop nose, along with a lightly sweet pils malt character. Shows a subtle yeast character
that may include spicy phenolics, perfumy or honey-like alcohol, or yeasty, fruity esters (commonly orange-like or
lemony). Light sweetness that may have a candi sugar-like character. Subtle yet complex.
Appearance: :Light to deep gold color. Generally very clear. Large, dense, and creamy white to off-white head. Good
head retention with Belgian lace.
Flavor: Smooth, light to moderate pils malt sweetness initially, but finishes medium-dry to dry with some smooth
alcohol becoming evident in the aftertaste. Medium hop and alcohol bitterness to balance. Light hop flavor, can be
spicy or earthy. Very soft yeast character (esters and alcohols, which are sometimes perfumy or orange/lemonlike).
Light spicy phenolics optional. Some candi sugar or honey-like sweetness on palate.
Mouthfeel: Medium-high to high carbonation, can give mouth-filling bubbly sensation. Medium body. Light to
moderate alcohol warmth, but smooth. Can be somewhat creamy.
Overall Impression: Moderate-strength golden ale that has a subtle Belgian complexity, slightly sweet flavor, and
dry finish.
Ingredients:
• Malt: pils malt, aromatic malts
• Hops: noble, Styrian Goldings or East Kent Goldings
• Yeast: Belgian yeast strains
• Other: candi sugar or sucrose
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Belgian
Dubbel
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Belgian
Tripel
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 18B. Belgian Dubbel
Category 18: BELGIAN STRONG ALE
OG: 1.062 – 1.075 FG: 1.010 – 1.018 ABV: 6 – 7.5% (6.5 – 7% is most typical)
IBU: 15 – 25 SRM: 10 – 14
Commercial Examples: Westmalle Dubbel, La Trappe Dubbel, Corsendonk Abbey Brown Ale, Grimbergen
Double, Affligem Dubbel, Chimay Premiere (Red), Duinen Dubbel, St. Feuillien Brune, New Belgium Abbey Belgian
Style Ale, Stoudts Abbey Double Ale
Aroma: Complex, rich malty sweetness; malt may have hints of chocolate, caramel and/or toast (but never roasted or
burnt aromas). Moderate fruity esters (including raisins and plums, also dried cherries). Rarely esters will include
banana or apple. Spicy phenols and higher alcohols are common including light clove and spice, peppery, rose-like
and/or perfumy notes. Spicy qualities can be moderate to very low. Alcohol, if present, is soft and never hot or
solventy. A small number may include a low noble hop aroma, but hops are usually absent. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Dark amber to copper in color, with an attractive reddish depth. Generally clear. Large, dense, and long-
lasting creamy off-white head.
Flavor: Similar qualities as aroma. Rich, complex medium to medium-full malty sweetness on the palate yet finishes
moderately dry. Complex malt, ester, alcohol and phenol interplay (raisiny flavors common; dried fruit flavors
welcome; clove-like spiciness optional). Balance is always toward the malt. Medium-low bitterness that doesn’t persist
into the finish. Low noble hop flavor optional and not usual. No diacetyl. Should not be as malty as a bock and should
not have crystal malt-type sweetness. No spices.
Mouthfeel: Medium-full body. Medium-high carbonation, which can influence the perception of body. Low alcohol
warmth. Smooth, never hot or solventy.
Overall Impression: A deep reddish, moderately strong, malty, complex Belgian ale.
Ingredients:
• Water: Soft water
• Malt: Belgian pils or pale base malt, Munich-type for maltiness, Special B for raisin, Cara Munich for dried
fruit, other specialty grains
• Hops: Noble -type, English-type or Styrian Goldings hops
• Others: Dark candi sugar
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

18C. Belgian Tripel

Category: 18. BELGIAN STRONG ALE
OG: 1.075 – 1.085 FG: 1.010 – 1.016 ABV: 7.5 – 9%
IBU: 25 – 38 SRM: 4.5 – 6
Commercial Examples: Westmalle Tripel, Chimay Cinq Cents (White), Val-Dieu Triple, St. Bernardus Tripel,
Affligem Tripel, Grimbergen Tripel, La Trappe Tripel, Witkap Pater Tripel, Corsendonk Abbey Pale Ale, St. Feuillien
Tripel, New Belgium Trippel, Unibroue La Fin du Monde, Brooklyn Triple, Dragonmead Final Absolution
Aroma: Complex with moderate to significant spiciness, moderate fruity esters and low alcohol and hop aromas.
Generous spicy, peppery, sometimes clove-like phenols. Esters are often reminiscent of citrus fruits such as oranges,
but may sometimes have a slight banana character. A low yet distinctive spicy, floral, sometimes perfumy hop character
is usually found. Alcohols are soft, spicy and low in intensity. No hot alcohol or solventy aromas. The malt character is
light. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Deep yellow to deep gold in color. Good clarity. Effervescent. Long-lasting, creamy, rocky, white head
resulting in characteristic “Belgian lace” on the glass as it fades.
Flavor: Marriage of spicy, fruity and alcohol flavors supported by a soft malt character. Low to moderate phenols are
peppery in character. Esters are reminiscent of citrus fruit such as orange or sometimes lemon. A low to moderate spicy
hop character is usually found. Alcohols are soft, spicy, often a bit sweet and low in intensity. Bitterness is typically
medium to high from a combination of hop bitterness and yeast-produced phenolics. Substantial carbonation and
bitterness lends a dry finish with a moderately bitter aftertaste. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light to medium body, although lighter than the substantial gravity would suggest (thanks to
candi sugar and high carbonation). High alcohol content adds a pleasant creaminess but little to no obvious warming
sensation. No hot alcohol or solventy character. Always effervescent. Never astringent.
Overall Impression: Strongly resembles a Strong Golden Ale but slightly darker and somewhat fuller-bodied.
Ingredients:
• Malt: pilsner malt
• Hops: Noble hops or Styrian Goldings
• Yeast: Belgian yeast
• Other: 20% white candi sugar (sucrose)
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Belgian
Golden
Strong Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Belgian
Dark
Strong Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 18D. Belgian Golden Strong Ale
Category 18: BELGIAN STRONG ALE

OG: 1.070 – 1.095 FG: 1.010 – 1.016 ABV: 7.5 – 10%

IBU: 25 – 35 SRM: 4– 6

Commercial Examples: Duvel, Hapkin, Lucifer, Brigand, Judas, Delirium Tremens, Dulle Teve, Avery Salvation,
North Coast Pranqster, Unibroue Eau Benite
Aroma: Complex with significant fruity esters, moderate spiciness and low to moderate alcohol and hop aromas.
Esters are reminiscent of lighter fruits such as pears, oranges or apples. Moderate spicy, peppery phenols. A lot to
moderate yet distinctive perfumy, floral hop character is often present. Alcohols are soft, spicy, perfumy and low-to-
moderate in intensity. No hot alcohol or solventy aromas. The malt character is light. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Yellow to medium gold in color. Good clarity. Effervescent. Massive, long-lasting, rocky, often beady,
white head resulting in characteristic “Belgian lace” on the glass as it fades.
Flavor: Marriage of fruity, spicy and alcohol flavors supported by a soft malt character. Esters are reminiscent of
pears, oranges or apples. Low to moderate phenols are peppery in character. A low to moderate spicy hop character is
often present. Alcohols are soft, spicy, often a bit sweet and are low-to-moderate in intensity. Bitterness is typically
medium to high fro m a combination of hop bitterness and yeastproduced phenolics. Substantial carbonation and
bitterness leads to a dry finish with a low to moderately bitter aftertaste. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium body, although lighter than the substantial gravity would suggest (thanks to candi sugar
and high carbonation). Smooth but noticeable alcohol warmth. No hot alcohol or solventy character. Always
effervescent. Never astringent.
Overall Impression: A golden, complex, effervescent, strong Belgianstyle ale.
Ingredients:
• Malt: pilsner malt
• Hops: Noble hops or Styrian Goldings
• Yeast: Belgian yeast
• Others: up to 20% white candi sugar (sucrose).
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

18E. Belgian Dark Strong Ale

Category: 18. BELGIAN STRONG ALE
OG: 1.075 – 1.110+ FG: 1.010 – 1.024 ABV: 8 – 12%+
IBU: 15 – 25+ SRM: 12 – 20
Commercial Examples: Rochefort 10 (blue cap), Westvleteren 12 (yellow cap), Chimay Grande Reserve (Blue),
Rochefort 8 (green cap), St. Bernardus Abt 12, Gouden Carolus Grand Cru of the Emperor, Abbaye des Rocs Grand
Cru, Gulden Draak, Kasteelbier Bière du Chateau Donker
Aroma: Complex, with a rich malty sweetness, significant esters and alcohol, and an optional light to moderate
spiciness. Malt is rich and strong, and can have a Munich-type quality with occasional caramel, toast and/or bready
aroma. The fruity esters are strong to moderately low, and can contain raisin, plum, dried cherry, fig or prune notes.
Spicy phenols may be present, but usually have a peppery quality not clove-like. Alcohols are soft, spicy, perfumy
and/or roselike, and are low to moderate in intensity. Hops are not usually present (very low noble hop aroma
acceptable). No diacetyl. No dark/roast malt aroma. No hot alcohols or solventy aromas. No recognizable spice.
Appearance: Deep amber to deep coppery-brown in color (“dark” in this context implies “more deeply colored than
golden”). Huge, dense, moussy, persistent cream- to light tan-colored head. Can be clear to somewhat hazy.
Flavor: Similar to aroma (same malt, ester, phenol, alcohol, hop and spice comments apply to flavor as well).
Moderately malty or sweet on palate. Finish is variable depending on interpretation (Trappist versions moderately dry
to dry, Abbey versions medium-dry to sweet). Low bitterness for a beer of this strength; alcohol provides some of the
balance to the malt. Sweeter and more full-bodied beers will have a higher bitterness level to balance. Almost all
versions are malty in the balance, although a few are lightly bitter. The complex and varied flavors should blend
smoothly and harmoniously.
Mouthfeel: High carbonation but no carbonic acid “bite.” Smooth but noticeable alcohol warmth. Body can be
variable depending on interpretation (Trappist versions tend to be medium-light to medium and Abbey-style is full and
creamy).
Overall Impression: A dark, very rich, complex, very strong Belgian ale. Complex, rich, smooth and dangerous.
Ingredients:
• Malt: Belgian pils or pale base malt, Munich-type malts for maltiness, other Belgian specialty grains
• Hops: Noble-type, English-type or Styrian Goldings
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Old Ale
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

English
Barleywine
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 19A. Old Ale
Category 19: STRONG ALE
OG: 1.060 – 1.090+ FG: 1.015 – 1.022+ ABV: 6 – 9+%
IBU: 30 – 60+ SRM: 10 – 22+
Commercial Examples: Gale’s Prize Old Ale, Burton Bridge Olde Expensive, Marston Owd Roger, J.W. Lees
Moonraker, Harviestoun Old Engine Oil, Fuller’s Vintage Ale, Harvey’s Elizabethan Ale, Theakston Old Peculier
(peculiar at OG 1.057), Young's Winter Warmer, Sarah Hughes Dark Ruby Mild, Samuel Smith’s Winter Welcome,
Fuller’s 1845, Fuller’s Old Winter Ale, Great Divide Hibernation Ale, Hudson Valley Old Man Ale
Aroma: Malty-sweet with fruity esters, often with a complex blend of dried-fruit, vinous, caramelly, molasses, nutty,
toffee, treacle, and/or other specialty malt aromas. Some alcohol and oxidative notes are acceptable, akin to those found
in Sherry or Port. Hop aro mas not usually present due to extended aging.
Appearance: Light amber to very dark reddish-brown color (most are fairly dark). Age and oxidation may darken the
beer further. May be almost opaque (if not, should be clear). Moderate to low head; may be adversely affected by
alcohol and age.
Flavor: Medium to high malt character with a luscious malt complexity, often with nutty, caramelly and/or molasses -
like flavors. Light chocolate or roasted malt flavors are optional, but should never be prominent. Balance is often
malty-sweet, but may be well hopped (the impression of bitterness often depends on amount of aging). Moderate to
high fruity esters are common, and may take on a driedfruit or vinous character. The finish may vary from dry to
somewhat sweet. Extended aging may contribute oxidative flavors similar to a fine old Sherry, Port or Madeira.
Alcoholic strength should be evident, though not overwhelming. Diacetyl low to none. Some wood-aged or blended
versions may have a lactic or Brettanomyces character; but this is optional and should not be too strong (enter as a
specialty beer if it is).
Mouthfeel: Medium to full, chewy body, although older examples may be lower in body due to continued attenuation
during conditioning. Alcohol warmth is often evident and always welcome. Low to moderate carbonation, depending
on age and conditioning
Overall Impression: An ale of significant alcoholic strength, bigger than strong bitters and brown porters, though
usually not as strong or rich as barleywine. Usually tilted toward a sweeter, maltier balance. “It should be a warming
beer of the type that is best drunk in half pints by a warm fire on a cold winter’s night” – Michael Jackson.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

19B. English Barleywine

Category: 19. STRONG ALE
OG: 1.080 – 1.120+ FG: 1.018 – 1.030+ ABV: 8-12+%
IBU: 35 – 70 SRM: 8 – 22
Commercial Examples: Thomas Hardy’s Ale, Burton Bridge Thomas Sykes Old Ale, Robinson’s Old Tom, J.W.
Lee’s Vintage Harvest Ale, Fuller’s Golden Pride, Young’s Old Nick (unusual in its 7.2% ABV), Whitbread Gold
Label, Lakefront Beer Line, Heavyweight Old Salty
Aroma: Very rich and strongly malty, often with a caramel-like aroma. May have moderate to strong fruitiness, often
with a dried-fruit character. English hop aroma may range from mild to assertive. Alcohol aromatics may be low to
moderate. The intensity of these aromatics often subsides with age. The aroma may have a rich character including
bready, toasty, toffee, molasses, and/or treacle notes. Aged versions may have a sherry-like quality, possibly vinous or
port-like aromatics, and generally more muted malt aromas. Low to no diacetyl.
Appearance: Color ranges from rich gold to very dark amber or even dark brown. Often has ruby highlights, but not
opaque. Low to moderate off-white head; may have low head retention. May be cloudy with chill haze at cooler
temperatures, but generally clears to good to brilliant clarity as it warms. The color may appear to have great depth, as
if viewed through a thick glass lens. High alcohol and viscosity may be visible in “legs” when beer is swirled in a glass.
Flavor: Strong, intense, complex, multi-layered malt flavors ranging from bready and biscuity through nutty, deep
toast, dark caramel, toffee, and/or molasses. Moderate to high malty sweetness on the palate, although the finish may be
moderately sweet to moderately dry (depending on aging). Some oxidative or vinous flavors may be present, and often
complex alcohol flavors should be evident. Moderate to fairly high fruitiness, often with a dried-fruit character. Hop
bitterness may range from just enough for balance to a firm presence; balance therefore ranges from malty to somewhat
bitter. Low to moderately high hop flavor (usually UK varieties). Low to no diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Full-bodied and chewy, with a velvety, luscious texture (although the body may decline with long
conditioning). A smooth warmth from aged alcohol should be present. Carbonation may be low to moderate, depending
on age and conditioning.
Overall Impression: The richest and strongest of the English Ales. A showcase of malty richness and complex,
intense flavors. The character of these ales can change significantly over time; both young and old versions should be
appreciated for what they are. The malt profile can vary widely; not all examples will have all possible flavors or
aromas.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

American
Barleywine
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Classic
Rauchbier
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 19C. American Barleywine
Category 19: STRONG ALE
OG: 1.080 – 1.120+ FG: 1.016 – 1.030+ ABV: 8 – 12+%
IBU: 50 – 120+ SRM: 10 – 19
Commercial Examples: Sierra Nevada Bigfoot, Rogue Old Crustacean, Anchor Old Foghorn, Victory Old
Horizontal, Brooklyn Monster Ale, Avery Hog Heaven Barleywine, Bell’s Third Coast Old Ale, Weyerbacher
Blithering Idiot, Three Floyds Behemoth, Old Dominion Millennium, Stone Old Guardian
Aroma: Very rich and intense maltiness. Hop character moderate to assertive and often showcases citrusy or resiny
American varieties (although other varieties, such as floral, earthy or spicy English varieties or a blend of varieties, may
be used). Low to moderately strong fruity esters and alcohol aromatics. Malt character may be sweet, caramelly,
bready, or fairly neutral. However, the intensity of aromatics often subsides with age. No diacetyl.
Appearance: Color may range from light amber to medium copper; rarely as dark as light brown. Often has ruby
highlights. Moderately-low to large off-white to light tan head; may have low head retention. May be cloudy with chill
haze at cooler temperatures, but generally clears to good to brilliant clarity as it warms. The color may appear to have
great depth, as if viewed through a thick glass lens. High alcohol and viscosity may be visible in “legs” when beer is
swirled in a glass.
Flavor: Strong, intense malt flavor with noticeable bitterness. Moderately low to moderately high malty sweetness on
the palate, although the finish may be somewhat sweet to quite dry. Hop bitterness may range from moderately strong
to aggressive. Strongly malty, yet the balance should always seem bitter. Moderate to high hop flavor. Low to moderate
fruity esters. Noticeable alcohol presence, but sharp or solventy alcohol flavors undesirable. Flavors will smooth out
and decline over time, but any oxidized character should be muted (masked by the hop character). May have some
bready or caramelly malt flavors, but should not be high. Roasted or burnt malt flavors inappropriate. No diacetyl.
Mouthfeel: Full-bodied and chewy, with a velvety, luscious texture (although the body may decline with long
conditioning). Alcohol warmth should be present, but not be excessively hot. Should not be syrupy and under-
attenuated. Carbonation may be low to moderate, depending on age and conditioning.
Overall Impression: A well-hopped American interpretation of the richest and strongest of the English ales. The hop
character should be evident throughout, but does not have to be unbalanced. The alcohol strength and hop bitterness
often combine to leave a very long finish.
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.

22A. Classic Rauchbier

Category: 22. SMOKE-FLAVORED AND WOOD-AGED BEER
OG: 1.050 – 1.056 FG: 1.012 – 1.016 ABV: 4.8 – 6%
IBU: 20 – 30 SRM: 14 – 22+
Commercial Examples: Schlenkerla Rauchbier Märzen, Kaiserdom Rauchbier
Aroma: Blend of smoke and malt, with a varying balance and intensity. The beechwood smoke character can range
from subtle to fairly strong, and can seem smoky, bacon-like, woody, or rarely almost greasy. The malt character can be
low to moderate, and be somewhat sweet, toasty, or malty. The malt and smoke components are often inversely
proportional (i.e. when smoke increases, malt decreases, and vice versa). Hop aroma may be very low to none. Clean,
lager character with no fruity esters, diacetyl or DMS.
Appearance: This should be a very clear beer, with a large, creamy, rich, tan- to cream-colored head. Deep
amber/light copper to dark brown color.
Flavor: Generally follows the aroma profile, with a blend of smoke and malt in varying balance and intensity, yet
always complementary. Märzen-like qualities should be noticeable, particularly a malty, toasty richness, but the
beechwood smoke flavor can be low to high. The palate can be somewhat malty and sweet, yet the finish can reflect
both malt and smoke. Moderate, balanced, hop bitterness, with a mediumdry to dry finish (the smoke character
enhances the dryness of the finish). Noble hop flavor moderate to none. Clean lager character with no fruity esters,
diacetyl or DMS. Harsh, bitter, burnt, charred, rubbery, sulfury or phenolic smoky characteristics are inappropriate.
Mouthfeel: Medium body. Medium to medium-high carbonation. Smooth lager character. Significant astringent,
phenolic harshness is inappropriate
Overall Impression: Märzen/Oktoberfest-style (see Oktoberfest) beer with a sweet, smoky aroma and flavor and a
somewhat darker color.
Ingredients:
• Malt: German Rauchmalz (beechwood-smoked Vienna-type malt) typically makes up 20-100% of the grain
bill, with the remainder being German malts typically used in a Märzen. Some breweries adjust the color
slightly with a bit of roasted malt.
• Hops: German or Czech hops
• Yeast: German lager yeast
Copyright © 2004, BJCP, Inc. All rights reserved.
A

Spice, Herb,
or Vegetable
Beer
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Christmas/
Winter
Specialty
Spiced Beer
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 21A. Spice, Herb,or Vegetable Beer
Category 21: SPICE, HERB, OR VEGETABLE BEER
OG, FG, IBUs, SRM and ABV will vary depending on the underlying base beer.
Commercial Examples: Cave Creek Chili Beer, Buffalo Bill's Pumpkin Ale, Stoney Creek Vanilla Porter, Redhook
Double Black Stout, Young’s Double Chocolate Stout, Traquair Jacobite Ale, Bell’s Java Stout, Left Hand JuJu Ginger
Beer, Dogfish Head Chicory Stout, Fraoch Heather Ale, Dogfish Head Punkin Ale & Midas Touch, Christian Moerlein
Honey Almond, Rogue Chocolate Porter, Mexicali Rogue, Rogue Hazelnut Nectar, Rogue Chocolate Stout.
Aroma: The character of the spices, herbs and/or vegetables (SHV) should be noticeable in the aroma and should be
pleasant and supportive, not artificial and overpowering; Some SHV have stronger aromas and are more distinctive
than others —allow for a range of SHV character and intensity. Aroma hops, yeast by-products and malt components of
the underlying style may not be as noticeable. If the base beer is an ale then a non-specific fruitiness and/or other
fermentation by-products may be present. If the base beer is a lager, then less fermentation byproducts may be present.
Some malt aroma is preferable, especially in dark styles. Hop aroma may be absent or balanced with SHV, depending
on the style.
Appearance: Appearance should be appropriate to the base beer being presented and will vary depending on the base
beer. For lighter colored beers with spices, herbs or vegetables that exhibit distinctive colors, the colors may be
noticeable in the beer and possibly the head. May have some haze or be clear. Head formation may be adversely
affected by some ingredients, such as chocolate.
Flavor: As with aroma, the distinctive flavor character associated with the particular SHV(s) should be noticeable, and
may range in intensity. The balance of SHV with the underlying beer is vital and the SHV character should not be so
artificial and/or overpowering. Hop bitterness, flavor, malt flavors, alcohol content, and fermentation byproducts should
be appropriate to the base beer and be harmonious and balanced with the distinctive SHV flavors present. These
components (especially hops) may be intentionally subdued to allow the SHV character to come through. Some SHV(s)
are inherently bitter and may result in a beer more bitter than the declared base style.
Mouthfeel: May vary depending on the base beer selected. Body and carbonation levels should be appropriate to the
base beer style. Some SHV(s) may add additional body and/or slickness, although fermentable additions may thin out
the beer. Some SHV(s) may add a bit of astringency, although a “raw” spice character is undesirable.
Overall Impression: A harmonious marriage of spices, herbs and/or vegetables and beer. Judge the beer based on the
pleasantness and balance of the resulting combination.
Comment: THE ENTRANT MUST SPECIFY THE UNDERLYING BEER STYLE AND SHV’S USED.

21B. Christmas/ Winter Specialty Spice Beer

Category 21: SPICE, HERB, OR VEGETABLE BEER
OG, FG, IBUs, SRM and ABV will vary depending on the underlying base beer.
Commercial Examples: Anchor Our Special Ale, Harpoon Winter Warmer, Weyerbacher Winter Ale, Goose Island
Christmas Ale, North Coast Wintertime Ale, Great Lakes Christmas Ale, Samuel Adams Winter Lager
Aroma: A wide range of aromatics is possible, although many examples are reminiscent of Christmas cookies,
gingerbread, Englishtype Christmas pudding, spruce trees, or mulling spices. Any combination of aromatics that
suggests the holiday season is welcome. The base beer style often has a malty profile that supports the balanced
presentation of the aromatics from spices and possibly other special ingredients. Additional fermentables (e.g., honey,
molasses, maple syrup, etc.) may lend their own unique aromatics. Hop aromatics are often absent, subdued, or slightly
spicy. Some fruit character (often of dried citrus peel, or dried fruit such as raisins or plums) is optional but
acceptable. Alcohol aromatics may be found in some examples, but this character should be restrained. The overall
aroma should be balanced and harmonious, and is often fairly complex and inviting.
Appearance: Medium amber to very dark brown (darker versions are more common). Usually clear, although darker
versions may be opaque. Some chill haze is acceptable. Generally has a well-formed head that is often off-white to tan.
Flavor: Many interpretations are possible; allow for brewer creativity as long as the resulting product is balanced and
provides some spice presentation. Spices associated with the holiday season are typical. The spices and optional
fermentables should be supportive and blend well with the base beer style. Rich, malty and/or sweet malt-based flavors
are common, and may include caramel, toast, nutty, or chocolate flavors. May include some dried fruit or dried fruit
peel flavors such as raisin, plum, fig, orange peel or lemon peel. May include distinctive flavors from specific
fermentables (molasses, honey, brown sugar, etc.), although these elements are not required. A light spruce or other
evergreen tree character is optional but found in some examples. The wide range of special ingredients should be
supportive and balanced, not so prominent as to overshadow the base beer. Bitterness and hop flavor are generally
restrained so as to not interfere with the spices and special ingredients. Generally finishes rather full and satisfying, and
often has some alcohol flavor. Roasted malt characteristics are rare, and not usually stronger than chocolate.
Mouthfeel: Body is generally medium to full, and a certain malty chewiness is often present. Moderately low to
moderately high carbonation is typical. Many examples will show some well-aged, warming alcohol content, but
without being overly hot. The beers do not have to be overly strong to show some warming effects.
Overall Impression: A stronger, darker, spiced beer that often has a rich body and warming finish suggesting a good
accompaniment for the cold winter season.
A

Other
Smoked Beer
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Wood-aged
Beer
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 22B. Other Smoked Beer
Category 22: SMOKED-FLAVORED OR WOOD-AGED BEER

OG, FG, IBUs, SRM and ABV will vary depending on the underlying base beer.

Commercial Examples: Alaskan Smoked Porter, Spezial Rauchbier, Stone Smoked Porter, Schlenkerla Weizen
Rauchbier, Schlenkerla Ur- Bock Rauchbier, Rogue Smoke, Arcadia London Porter, DeGroen’s Rauchbock
Aroma: The aroma should be a pleasant balance between the expected aroma of the base beer (e.g., robust porter) and
the smokiness imparted by the use of smoked malts. The intensity and character of the smoke and base beer style can
vary, with either being prominent in the balance. Smokiness may vary from low to assertive; however, balance in the
overall presentation is the key to well-made examples. The quality and secondary characteristics of the smoke are
reflective of the source of the smoke (e.g., peat, alder, oak, beechwood). Sharp, phenolic, harsh, rubbery, or burnt
smoke-derived aromatics are inappropriate.
Appearance: Variable. The appearance should reflect the base beer style, although the color of the beer is often a bit
darker than the plain base style.
Flavor: As with aroma, there should be a balance between smokiness and the expected flavor characteristics of the
base beer style. Smokiness may vary from low to assertive. Smoky flavors may range from woody to somewhat bacon-
like depending on the type of malts used. Peat-smoked malt can add an earthiness. The balance of underlying beer
characteristics and smoke can vary, although the resulting blend should be somewhat balanced and enjoyable. Smoke
can add some dryness to the finish. Harsh, bitter, burnt, charred, rubbery, sulfury or phenolic smoky characteristics are
generally inappropriate (although some of these characteristics may be present in some base styles; however, the
smoked malt shouldn’t contribute these flavors)
Mouthfeel: Varies with the base beer style. Significant astringent, phenolic smoke-derived harshness is inappropriate.
Overall Impression: This is any beer that is exhibiting smoke as a principle flavor and aroma characteristic other
than the Bamberg-style Rauchbier (i.e. beechwood-smoked Märzen). Balance in the use of smoke, hops and malt
character is exhibited by the better examples.

22C. Wood-Aged Beer

Category 22: SMOKED-FLAVORED OR WOOD-AGED BEER
OG, FG, IBUs, SRM and ABV will vary depending on the underlying base beer.
Commercial Examples: J.W. Lees Harvest Ale in Port, Sherry, Lagavulin Whisky or Calvados Casks, Dominion
Oak Barrel Stout, New Holland Dragons Milk, Goose Island Bourbon County Stout, MacTarnahan’s Oak-Aged IPA,
Le Coq Imperial Extra Double Stout, Greene King Olde Suffolk Ale, Harviestoun Old Engine Oil Special Reserve.
Aroma: A low to moderate wood- or oak-based aroma is usually present. Fresh wood can occasionally impart raw
“green” aromatics. Other optional aromatics include a low to moderate vanilla, caramel, toffee, toast, or cocoa
character, as well as any aromatics associated with alcohol previous stored in the wood. Any alcohol character should
be smooth and balanced, not hot. Some background oxidation character is optional, and can take on a pleasant, sherry-
like character and not be papery or cardboard-like.
Appearance: Varies with base style. Often darker than the unadulterated base beer style, particularly if
toasted/charred oak and/or whiskey/bourbon barrels are used.
Flavor: Wood usually contributes a woody or oaky flavor, which can occasionally take on a raw “green” flavor if new
wood is used. Other flavors that may optionally be present include vanilla (from vanillin in the wood); caramel,
butterscotch, toasted bread or almonds (from toasted wood); coffee, chocolate, cocoa (from charred wood or bourbon
casks); and alcohol flavors from other products previously stored in the wood (if any). The wood and/or other cask-
derived flavors should be balanced, supportive and noticeable, but should not overpower the base beer style. There may
be an optional lactic or acetic tartness or Brett funkiness in the beer, but this should not be higher than a background
flavor (if present at all). Some background oxidation character is optional, although this should take on a pleasant,
sherry-like character and not be papery or cardboard-like.
Mouthfeel: Varies with base style. Often fuller than the unadulterated base beer, and may exhibit additional alcohol
warming if wood has previously been in contact with other alcoholic products. Higher alcohol levels should not result
in “hot” beers; aged, smooth flavors are most desirable. Wood can also add tannins to the beer, depending on age of the
cask. The tannins can lead to additional astringency (which should never be high), or simply a fuller mouthfeel. Tart or
acidic characteristics should be low to none.
Overall Impression: A harmonious blend of the base beer style with characteristics from aging in contact with wood.
The best examples will be smooth, flavorful, well-balanced and well-aged. Beers made using either limited wood aging
or products that only provide a subtle background character may be entered in the base beer style categories as long as
the wood character isn’t prominently featured.
A

Dry
Mead
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Semi-sweet
Mead
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 24A. Dry Mead
Category 24: TRADITIONAL MEAD

OG: hydromel: 1.035 – 1.080 ABV: hydromel: 3.5 – 7.5% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.010
standard: 1.080 – 1.120 standard: 7.5 – 14% semi-sweet: 1.010 – 1.025
sack: 1.120 – 1.140+ sack: 14 – 18% sweet: 1.025 – 1.040+

Commercial Examples: White Winter Dry Mead, Sky River Dry Mead

Aroma: Honey aroma may be subtle, although not always identifiable. Sweetness or significant honey aromatics
should not be expected. If a honey variety is declared, the variety should be distinctive (if noticeable). Different types
of honey have different intensities and characters. Standard description applies for remainder of characteristics
Appearance: The color should reflect the ingredients used (type of honey, and fruit and/or malt in some styles).
Flavor: Subtle (if any) honey character, and may feature subtle to noticeable varietal character if a varietal honey is
declared (different varieties have different intensities). No to minimal residual sweetness with a dry finish. Sulfury,
harsh or yeasty fermentation characteristics are undesirable. Standard description applies for remainder of
characteristics.
Mouthfeel: Standard description applies, although the body is generally light to medium. Note that stronger meads
will have a fuller body. Sensations of body should not be accompanied by noticeable residual sweetness.
Overall Impression: Similar in balance, body, finish and flavor intensity to a dry white wine, with a pleasant
mixture of subtle honey character, soft fruity esters, and clean alcohol. Complexity, harmony, and balance of sensory
elements are most desirable, with no inconsistencies in color, aroma, flavor or aftertaste. The proper balance of
sweetness, acidity, alcohol and honey character is the essential final measure of any mead.
Ingredients: Standard description applies. Traditional Meads feature the character of a blended honey or a blend of
honeys. Varietal meads feature the distinctive character of certain honeys. “Show meads” feature no additives, but this
distinction is usually not obvious to judges.

24B. Semi-sweet Mead

Category 24: TRADITIONAL MEAD

OG: hydromel: 1.035 – 1.080 ABV: hydromel: 3.5 – 7.5% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.010
standard: 1.080 – 1.120 standard: 7.5 – 14% semi-sweet: 1.010 – 1.025
sack: 1.120 – 1.140+ sack: 14 – 18% sweet: 1.025 – 1.040+

Commercial Examples: Lurgashall English Mead, Redstone Traditional Mountain Honey Wine, Sky River Semi-
Sweet Mead

Aroma: Honey aroma should be noticeable, and can have a light sweetness that may express the aroma of flower
nectar. If a variety of honey is declared, the aroma might have a subtle to very noticeable varietal character reflective of
the honey (different varieties have different intensities and characters). Standard description applies for remainder of
characteristics.
Appearance: The color should reflect the ingredients used (type of honey, and fruit and/or malt in some styles).
Flavor: Subtle to moderate honey character, and may feature subtle to noticeable varietal character if a varietal honey
is declared (different varieties have different intensities). Subtle to moderate residual sweetness with a medium-dry
finish. Sulfury, harsh or yeasty fermentation characteristics are undesirable. Standard description applies for remainder
of characteristics.
Mouthfeel: Standard description applies, although the body is generally medium-light to medium-full. Note that
stronger meads will have a fuller body. Sensations of body should not be accompanied by a residual sweetness that is
higher than moderate.
Overall Impression: Similar in balance, body, finish and flavor intensity to a semisweet (or medium-dry) white
wine, with a pleasant mixture of honey character, light sweetness, soft fruity esters, and clean alcohol. Complexity,
harmony, and balance of sensory elements are most desirable, with no inconsistencies in color, aroma, flavor or
aftertaste. The proper balance of sweetness, acidity, alcohol and honey character is the essential final measure of any
mead.
Ingredients: Standard description applies. Traditional Meads feature the character of a blended honey or a blend of
honeys. Varietal meads feature the distinctive character of certain honeys. “Show meads” feature no additives, but this
distinction is usually not obvious to judges.
A

Sweet
Mead
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Cyser
(Apple Melomel)

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

 24C. Sweet Mead
Category 24: TRADITIONAL MEAD

OG: hydromel: 1.035 – 1.080 ABV: hydromel: 3.5 – 7.5% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.010
standard: 1.080 – 1.120 standard: 7.5 – 14% semi-sweet: 1.010 – 1.025
sack: 1.120 – 1.140+ sack: 14 – 18% sweet: 1.025 – 1.040+

Commercial Examples: Lurgashall Christmas Mead, Chaucer’s Mead, Rabbit’s Foot Sweet Wildflower Honey
Mead
Aroma: Honey aroma should dominate, and is often moderately to strongly sweet and usually expresses the aroma of
flower nectar. If a variety of honey is declared, the aroma might have a subtle to very noticeable varietal character
reflective of the honey (different varieties have different intensities and characters).
Appearance: The color should reflect the ingredients used (type of honey, and fruit and/or malt in some styles).
Flavor: Moderate to significant honey character, and may feature moderate to prominent varietal character if a varietal
honey is declared (different varieties have different intensities). Moderate to high residual sweetness with a sweet and
full (but not cloying) finish. Sulfury, harsh or yeasty fermentation characteristics are undesirable. Standard description
applies for remainder of characteristics.
Mouthfeel: Standard description applies, although the body is generally medium-full to full. Note that stronger meads
will have a fuller body. Many seem like a dessert wine. Sensations of body should not be accompanied by cloying, raw
residual sweetness.
Overall Impression: Similar in balance, body, finish and flavor intensity to a well-made dessert wine (such as
Sauternes), with a pleasant mixture of honey character, residual sweetness, soft fruity esters, and clean alcohol.
Complexity, harmony, and balance of sensory elements are most desirable, with no inconsistencies in color,
aroma, flavor or aftertaste. The proper balance of sweetness, acidity, alcohol and honey character is the essential final
measure of any mead.
Ingredients: Standard description applies. Traditional Meads feature the character of a blended honey or a blend of
honeys. Varietal meads feature the distinctive character of certain honeys. “Show meads” feature no additives, but this
distinction is usually not obvious to judges.

25A. Cyser (Apple Melomel)

Category 25: MELOMEL (FRUIT MEAD)

OG: hydromel: 1.035 – 1.080 ABV: hydromel: 3.5 – 7.5% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.010
standard: 1.080 – 1.120 standard: 7.5 – 14% semi-sweet: 1.010 – 1.025
sack: 1.120 – 1.140+ sack: 14 – 18% sweet: 1.025 – 1.040+

Commercial Examples: White Winter Cyser

Aroma: Dry and/or hydromel versions will tend to have lower aromatics than sweet and/or sack versions. The
apple/cider character should be clean and distinctive; it can express a range of apple-based character ranging from a
subtle fruitiness to a single varietal apple character (if declared) to a complex blend of apple aromatics. Some spicy or
earthy notes may be present, as may a slightly sulfury character. The honey aroma should be noticeable, and can have a
light to significant sweetness that may express the aroma of flower nectar. If a variety of honey is declared, the aroma
might have a subtle to very noticeable varietal character reflective of the honey. The bouquet should show a pleasant
fermentation character, with clean and fresh aromatics being preferred. Stronger and/or sweeter versions will have
higher alcohol and sweetness in the nose. Slight spicy phenolics from certain apple varieties are acceptable, as is a light
diacetyl character from malolactic fermentation (both are optional).
Appearance: Standard description applies, except with regard to color. Color may range from pale straw to deep
golden amber (most are yellow to gold), depending on the variety of honey and blend of apples or ciders used.
Flavor: Subtle to moderate honey character, and may feature subtle to noticeable varietal character if a varietal honey
is declared (different varieties have different intensities). Subtle to moderate residual sweetness with a medium-dry
finish. Sulfury, harsh or yeasty fermentation characteristics are undesirable. Standard description applies for remainder
of characteristics.
Mouthfeel: Standard description applies. Often wine-like. Some natural acidity is usually present (from the blend of
apples) and helps balance the overall impression. Some apples can provide natural astringency, but this character
should not be excessive.
Ingredients: Standard description applies. Cyser is a standard mead made with the addition of apples or apple juice.
Traditionally, cysers are made by the addition of honey to apple juice without additional water. A spiced cyser, or a
cyser with other ingredients, should be entered as an Open Category Mead.
A

Pyment
(Grape Melomel)

Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Other Fruit
Melomel
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 25B. Pyment (Grape Melomel)
Category 25: MELOMEL (FRUIT MEAD)

OG: hydromel: 1.035 – 1.080 ABV: hydromel: 3.5 – 7.5% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.010
standard: 1.080 – 1.120 standard: 7.5 – 14% semi-sweet: 1.010 – 1.025
sack: 1.120 – 1.140+ sack: 14 – 18% sweet: 1.025 – 1.040+

Commercial Examples: Redstone “Pinot Noir” Mountain Honey Wine

Aroma: The grape/wine character should be clean and distinctive; it can express a range of grape-based character
ranging from a subtle fruitiness to a single varietal grape character (if declared) to a complex blend of grape or wine
aromatics. Some complex notes may be present (as in wine). The honey aroma should be noticeable, and can have a
light to significant sweetness that may express the aroma of flower nectar. If a variety of honey is declared, the aroma
might have a subtle to very noticeable varietal character. The bouquet should show a pleasant fermentation character,
with clean and fresh aromatics being preferred. Slight spicy phenolics from certain red grape varieties are acceptable, as
is a light diacetyl character from malolactic fermentation in certain white grape varieties (both are optional).
Appearance:. Standard description applies, except with regard to color. Color may range from pale straw to deep
purple-red, depending on the variety of grapes and honey used.
Flavor: The grape/wine and honey flavor intensity may vary from subtle to high; the residual sweetness may vary
from none to high; and the finish may range from dry to sweet, depending on what sweetness level has been declared
and strength level has been declared. Natural acidity and tannin in grapes may give some tartness and astringency to
balance the sweetness, honey flavor and alcohol. A pyment may have a subtle to strong honey character, and may
feature noticeable to prominent varietal character if a varietal honey is declared. Depending on the grape variety, some
fruity, spicy, grassy, buttery, earthy, minerally, and/or floral flavors may be present.
Mouthfeel: Wine-like. Some natural acidity is usually present (from grapes) and helps balance the overall impression.
Grape tannin and/or grape skins can add body as well as some astringency, although this character should not be
excessive. Longer aging can smooth out tannin-based astringency.
Overall Impression: In well-made examples of the style, the grape is both distinctively vinous and well-incorporated
into the honey-sweet-acid-tannin-alcohol balance of the mead. White and red versions can be quite different, and the
overall impression should be characteristic of the type of grapes used and suggestive of a similar variety wine.

25C. Other Fruit Melomel

Category 25: MELOMEL (FRUIT MEAD)
OG: hydromel: 1.035 – 1.080 ABV: hydromel: 3.5 – 7.5% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.010
standard: 1.080 – 1.120 standard: 7.5 – 14% semi-sweet: 1.010 – 1.025
sack: 1.120 – 1.140+ sack: 14 – 18% sweet: 1.025 – 1.040+
Commercial Examples: White Winter Blueberry, Raspberry and Strawberry Melomels, Redstone Black Raspberry
Nectar, Bees Brothers Raspberry Mead
Aroma: Depending on the sweetness and strength, a subtle to distinctly identifiable honey and pleasant character.
Some fruit (e.g., raspberries, cherries) have stronger aromas and are more distinctive than others (e.g., blueberries,
strawberries)—allow for a range of fruit character and intensity. The honey aroma should be noticeable and can have a
light to significant sweetness that may express the aroma of flower nectar. If a variety of honey is declared, the aroma
might have a subtle to very noticeable varietal character reflective of the honey. The bouquet should show a pleasant
fermentation character with clean and fresh aromatics being preferred. Some tartness may be present if naturally
occurring in the particular fruit(s), but should not be inappropriately intense.
Appearance: Color may take on a very wide range of colors, depending on the variety of fruit and/or honey used. For
lighter-colored melomels with fruits that exhibit distinctive colors, the color should be noticeable.. In meads that
produce a head, the head can take on some of the fruit color as well.
Flavor: The fruit and honey flavor intensity may vary from subtle to high; the residual sweetness may vary from none
to high; and the finish may range from dry to sweet, depending on what sweetness level and strength level has been
declared. Natural acidity and tannin in some fruit and fruit skin may give some tartness and astringency to balance the
sweetness, honey flavor and alcohol. A melomel may have a range of honey character, and may feature noticeable to
prominent varietal character if a varietal honey is declared. The distinctive flavor character associated with the
particular fruit(s) should be noticeable and may range in intensity. The balance of fruit with the underlying mead is vital
and the fruit character should not be artificial and/or inappropriately overpowering.
Mouthfeel: Most will be wine-like. Some natural acidity and/or astringency are sometimes present (from certain fruit
and/or fruit skin) and helps balance the overall impression. Fruit tannin can add body as well as some astringency. High
levels of astringency are undesirable. The acidity and astringency levels should be somewhat reflective of the fruit
used.
Overall Impression: In well-made examples of the style, the fruit is both distinctive and well-incorporated into the
honey-sweet-acid-tannin-alcohol balance of the mead.
A

Metheglin
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Braggot
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 26A. Metheglin
Category 26: OTHER MEAD
OG: hydromel: 1.035 – 1.080 ABV: hydromel: 3.5 – 7.5% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.010
standard: 1.080 – 1.120 standard: 7.5 – 14% semi-sweet: 1.010 – 1.025
sack: 1.120 – 1.140+ sack: 14 – 18% sweet: 1.025 – 1.040+
Commercial Examples: Bonair Chili Mead
Aroma: The herb/spice character should display distinctive aromatics associated with the particular herbs/spices;
however, note that some herbs/spices (e.g., ginger, cinnamon) have stronger aromas and are more distinctive than
others (e.g., chamomile, lavender)—allow for a range of herb/spice character and intensity from subtle to aggressive.
The herb/spice character should be pleasant and supportive, not artificial and inappropriately overpowering
(considering the character of the herb/spice). In a blended herb/spice metheglin, not all herbs/spices may be
individually identifiable or of equal intensity. The honey aroma should be noticeable, and can have a light to significant
sweetness. If a variety of honey is declared, the aroma might have a subtle to very noticeable varietal character
reflective of the honey . The bouquet should show a pleasant fermentation character, with clean and fresh aromatics
being preferred. Some herbs and spices may produce spicy or peppery phenolics.
Appearance: Standard description applies, except perhaps to note that the color usually won’t be affected by spices
and herbs (although flowers, petals and peppers may provide subtle colors; tea blends may provide significant colors).
Flavor: The herb/spice flavor intensity may vary .Honey flavor intensity may vary. Residual sweetness may vary.
Finish may range from dry to sweet, depending on what sweetness level and strength level has been declared. The
distinctive flavor character associated with the particular herbs/spices may range in intensity. Certain herbs and spices
might add bitter, astringent, phenolic or spicy (hot) flavors; if present, these qualities should be related to the declared
ingredients (otherwise, they are faults), and they should balance and blend with the honey, sweetness and alcohol.
Metheglins containing more than one herb/spice should have a good balance among the different herbs/spices, though
some herbs/spices will tend to dominate the flavor profile. A metheglin may feature noticeable to prominent varietal
character if a varietal honey is declared.
Mouthfeel: Some herbs or spices may contain tannins that add a bit of body and some astringency, but this character
should not be excessive.
Overall Impression: In well-made examples of the style, the herbs/spices are both distinctive and well-incorporated
into the honey sweet-acid-tannin-alcohol balance of the mead. Allow for a variation in the final product.

26B. Braggot
Category 26: OTHER MEAD
OG: hydromel: 1.035 – 1.080 ABV: hydromel: 3.5 – 7.5% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.010
standard: 1.080 – 1.120 standard: 7.5 – 14% semi-sweet: 1.010 – 1.025
sack: 1.120 – 1.140+ sack: 14 – 18% sweet: 1.025 – 1.040+
Commercial Examples: Magic Hat Braggot, Brother Adams Braggot Barleywine Ale, White Winter Traditional
Brackett
Aroma: Sweetness, strength and base style of beer, a range of identifiable honey and beer character. The honey and
beer/malt character should be complementary and balanced, although not always evenly balanced. If a base style of
beer, type of malt or variety of honey is declared, the aroma might have a wide range of character reflective of the beer
style or honey. A hop aroma is optional; if present, it should blend harmoniously with the other elements.
Appearance: Clarity may vary. A light to moderate head with some retention is expected. Color may vary. The color
should be characteristic of the declared beer style and/or honey used, if a variety is declared. Stronger versions may
show signs of body (e.g., legs).
Flavor: Displays a balanced character identifiable as both a beer and mead, intensity of flavors is greatly affected by
the sweetness, strength, base style of beer, and variety of honey used. If a beer style is declared, the braggot should
have some character traceable to the style although the flavors will be different due to the presence of honey. If a
variety of honey is declared, the braggot should feature a subtle to prominent varietal character. Stronger and/or sweeter
braggots should be expected to have a greater intensity of flavor than drier, lower gravity versions. The finish and
aftertaste will vary based on the declared level of sweetness, and may include both beer and mead components. A wide
range of malt characteristics is allowable, from plain base malts to rich caramel and toast flavors to dark chocolate and
roast flavors. Hop bitterness and flavor may be present, and may reflect any variety or intensity; however, this optional
character should always be both suggestive of the base beer style and well blended with the other flavors.
Mouthfeel: Smooth mouthfeel without astringency. Body may vary, depending on sweetness, strength, and the base
style of beer. A very thin or watery body is undesirable, as is a cloying, raw sweetness. A warming sense of well-aged
alcohol may be present in stronger examples. Carbonation will vary. A still braggot will usually have some level of
carbonation (like a cask bitter) since a completely flat beer is unappetizing. However, just as an aged barleywine may
be still, some braggots can be totally still.
Overall Impression: A harmonious blend of mead and beer, with the distinctive characteristics of both. A wide range
of results are possible, depending on the base style of beer, variety of honey and overall sweetness and strength.
A

Open Mead
Catagory
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Common
Cider
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 26C. Open Mead Catagory
Category 26: OTHER MEAD
OG: hydromel: 1.035 – 1.080 ABV: hydromel: 3.5 – 7.5% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.010
standard: 1.080 – 1.120 standard: 7.5 – 14% semi-sweet: 1.010 – 1.025
sack: 1.120 – 1.140+ sack: 14 – 18% sweet: 1.025 – 1.040+
Commercial Examples: Jadwiga, Hanssens/Lurgashall Mead the Gueuze, Rabbit’s Foot Private Reserve Pear Mead,
White Winter Cherry Bracket, Saba Tej, Mountain Meadows Agave Mead

An Open Category Mead is a honey-based beverage that either combines ingredients from two or more of the other
mead subcategories, is a historical or indigenous mead (e.g., tej, Polish meads), or is a mead that does not fit into any
other category. Any specialty or experimental mead using additional sources of fermentables (e.g.,maple syrup,
molasses, brown sugar, or agave nectar), additional ingredients (e.g., vegetables, liquors, smoke, etc.), alternative
processes (e.g., icing, oak-aging) or other unusual ingredient, process, or technique would also be appropriate in this
category. No mead can be “out of style” for this category unless it fits into another existing mead category.

Aroma, Appearance, Flavor, Mouthfeel: Generally follow the standard descriptions, yet note that all the
characteristics may vary Since a wide range of entries are possible, note that the characteristics may reflect
combinations of the respective elements of the various sub-categories used in this style. Refer to Category 25 for a
detailed description of the character of dry, semisweet and sweet mead. If the entered mead is a combination of other
existing mead categories, refer to the constituent categories for a detailed description of the character of the component
styles.
Overall Impression: This mead should exhibit the character of all of the ingredients in varying degrees, and should
show a good blending or balance between the various flavor elements. Whatever ingredients are included, the result
should be identifiable as a honey-based fermented beverage.
Comments: See standard description for entrance requirements. Entrants MUST specify carbonation level, strength,
and sweetness. Entrants MAY specify honey varieties. Entrants MUST specify the special nature of the mead, whether
it is a combination of existing styles, an experimental mead, a historical mead, or some other creation. Any special
ingredients that impart an identifiable character MAY be declared.

27A. Common Cider

Category 27: STANDARD CIDER AND PERRY

OG: 1.045 – 1.065 ABV: 5 – 8% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.002

semi-sweet: 1.002 – 1.012
sweet: 1.012+
Commercial Examples:
Aroma: Sweet or low-alcohol ciders may have apple aroma and flavor. Dry ciders will be more wine-like with some
esters. Sugar and acidity should combine to give a refreshing character, neither cloying nor too austere. Medium to high
acidity.
Appearance: Clear to brilliant, pale to medium gold in color. The lack of sparkling clarity is not a fault, but visible
particles are undesirable. In some styles a "rustic" lack of brilliance is common. Perries are notoriously difficult to
clear; as a result a slight haze is not a fault. However, a “sheen” in either cider or perry generally indicates the early
stage of lactic contamination and is a distinct fault. Carbonation may vary from entirely still to a champagne level. No
or little carbonation is termed still. A moderate carbonation level is termed petillant. Highly carbonated is termed
sparkling. At the higher levels of carbonation, the “mousse” (head) may be retained for a short time. However, gushing,
foaming, and difficult-to-manage heads are faults.
Flavor: Sweet or low-alcohol ciders may have apple aroma and flavor. Dry ciders will be more wine-like with some
esters. Sugar and acidity should combine to give a refreshing character, neither cloying nor too austere. Medium to high
acidity.
Mouthfeel: Medium body akin to a substantial white wine. Some tannin should be present for slight to moderate
astringency, but little bitterness. The body is less than that of beers. Full-sparkling ciders will be champagne-like.
Overall Impression: Variable, but should be a medium, refreshing drink. Sweet ciders must not be cloying. Dry
ciders must not be too austere. An ideal cider serves well as a "session" drink, and suitably accompanies a wide variety
of food.
Comments: Entrant MUST state if malic acid was added. Entrants MUST specify carbonation level (still, petillant, or
sparkling). Entrants MUST specify sweetness (dry, medium, sweet). Varieties: Common (Winesap, Macintosh, Golden
Delicious, Braeburn, Jonathan), multi-use (Northern Spy, Russets, Baldwin), crabapples, any suitable wildings.
A

English
Cider
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

French
Cider
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 27B. English Cider
Category 27: STANDARD CIDER AND PERRY

OG: 1.050 – 1.075 ABV: 6 – 9% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.002

Commercial Examples: (US) White Oak Traditional and Kingston Black, Westcott Bay Vintage, Farnum Hill
Farmhouse and Kingston Black; (UK) various from Hecks, Dunkerton, Burrow Hill
Aroma: No overt apple character, but various flavors and esters that suggest apples. May have "smoky (bacon)"
character, from a combination of apple varieties and MLF. Some "Farmyard nose" may be present but must not
dominate; mousiness is a serious fault. The common slight farmyard nose of an English West Country cider is the
result of lactic acid bacteria, not a Brettanomyces contamination.
Appearance: Slightly cloudy to brilliant. Medium to deep gold color.
Flavor: Same as Aroma.
Mouthfeel: Full. Moderate to high tannin apparent as astringency and some bitterness. Carbonation still to moderate,
never high or gushing.
Overall Impression: Generally dry, full-bodied, austere.
Comments: Entrants MUST specify carbonation level (still or petillant). Entrants MUST specify sweetness (dry to
medium). Entrants MAY specify variety of apple for a single varietal cider; if specified, varietal character will be
expected.

27C. French Cider

Category 27: STANDARD CIDER AND PERRY

OG: 1.050 – 1.065 ABV: 3 – 6% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.002

semi-sweet: 1.002 – 1.012
sweet: 1.012+

Commercial Examples: (US) West County (various), Rhyne Cider; (France) Eric Bordelet (various), Etienne
Dupont.

This includes Normandy styles plus ciders inspired by those styles, including ciders made by various techniques to
achieve the French flavor profile. These ciders are made with bittersweet and bitter-sharp apple varieties cultivated
specifically for cider making. Traditional French procedures use small amounts of salt and calcium compounds
(calcium chloride, calcium carbonate) to aid the process of pectin coagulation. These compounds may be used, pre-
fermentation, but in limited quantity. It is a fault if judges can detect a salty or chalky taste.

Aroma: Fruity character/aroma. This may come from slow or arrested fermentation (in the French technique of
défécation) or approximated by back sweetening with juice. Tends to a rich fullness.
Appearance: Clear to brilliant, medium to deep gold color.
Flavor: Same as Aroma.
Mouthfeel: Medium to full, mouth filling. Moderate tannin apparent mainly as astringency. Carbonation moderate to
champagne-like, but at higher levels it must not gush or foam.
Overall Impression: Medium to sweet, full-bodied, rich.
Comments: Entrants MUST specify carbonation level (petillant or full). Entrants MUST specify sweetness (medium,
sweet). Entrants MAY specify variety of apple for a single varietal cider; if specified, varietal character will be
expected.
A

Common
Perry
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Traditional
Perry
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 27D. Common Perry
Category 27: STANDARD CIDER AND PERRY

OG: 1.050 – 1.060 ABV: 5 – 7% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.002

semi-sweet: 1.002 – 1.012
sweet: 1.012+

Commercial Examples: None known in North America.

Aroma: There is a pear character, but not obviously fruity. It tends toward that of a young white wine. No bitterness.

Appearance: Slightly cloudy to clear. Generally quite pale.

Flavor: Same as Aroma.

Mouthfeel: Relatively full, low to moderate tannin apparent as astringency.

Overall Impression: Mild. Medium to medium-sweet. Still to lightly sparkling. Only very slight acetification is
acceptable. Mousiness, ropy/oily characters are serious faults.

Comments: Common perry is made from culinary/table fruit. Entrants MUST specify carbonation level (still,
petillant, or sparkling). Entrants MUST specify sweetness (medium or sweet).

27E. Traditional Perry

Category 27: STANDARD CIDER AND PERRY

OG: 1.050 – 1.070 ABV: 5 – 9% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.002

semi-sweet: 1.002 – 1.012
sweet: 1.012+

Commercial Examples: (At present, no known commercial US perries) Bordelet "Poire Authentique" and "Poire
Granit" are French perries available in the US.

Aroma: There is a pear character, but not obviously fruity. It tends toward that of a young white wine. Some slight
bitterness.

Appearance: Slightly cloudy to clear. Generally quite pale.

Flavor: Same as Aroma.

Mouthfeel:. Relatively full, moderate to high tannin apparent as astringency.

Overall Impression: Tannic. Medium to medium-sweet. Still to lightly sparkling. Only very slight acetification is
acceptable. Mousiness, ropy/oily characters are serious faults.

Comments: Traditional perry is made from pears grown specifically for that purpose rather than for eating or
cooking. (Many "perry pears" are nearly inedible.) Entrants MUST specify carbonation level (still, petillant,
or sparkling). Entrants MUST specify sweetness (medium or sweet). Variety of pear(s) used must be stated.
A

New England
Cider
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Fruit
Cider
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 28A. New England Cider
Category 28: SPECIALITY CIDER AND PERRY

OG: 1.060 – 1.100 ABV: 7 – 13% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.002

semi-sweet: 1.002 – 1.012
sweet: 1.012+

Commercial Examples: There are no known commercial examples of New England Cider.

Aroma: A dry flavorful cider with robust apple character, strong alcohol, and derivative flavors from sugar adjuncts.

Appearance: Clear to brilliant, pale to medium yellow.

Flavor: Same as Aroma.

Mouthfeel:. Substantial, alcoholic. Moderate tannin.

Overall Impression: Substantial body and character

Comments: Adjuncts may include white and brown sugars, molasses, small amounts of honey, and raisins. Adjuncts
are intended to raise OG well above that which would be achieved by apples alone. This style is sometimes barrel-aged,
in which case there will be oak character as with a barrel-aged wine. If the barrel was formerly used to age spirits,
some flavor notes from the spirit (e.g., whisky or rum) may also be present, but must be subtle. Entrants MUST specify
if the cider was barrel-fermented or aged. Entrants MUST specify carbonation level (still, petillant, or sparkling).
Entrants MUST specify sweetness (dry, medium, or sweet).

28B. Fruit Cider

Category 28: SPECIALITY CIDER AND PERRY

OG: 1.045 – 1.070 ABV: 5 – 9% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.002

semi-sweet: 1.002 – 1.012
sweet: 1.012+

Commercial Examples:

Aroma: The cider character must be present and must fit with the other fruits. It is a fault if the adjuncts completely
dominate; a judge might ask, "Would this be different if neutral spirits replaced the cider?" A fruit cider should not be
like an alco-pop. Oxidation is a fault.

Appearance: Clear to brilliant. Color appropriate to added fruit, but should not show oxidation characteristics. (For
example, berries should give red-to-purple color, not orange.)

Flavor: Same as Aroma.

Mouthfeel:. Substantial. May be significantly tannic depending on fruit added.

Overall Impression: Like a dry wine with complex flavors. The apple character must marry with the added fruit so
that neither dominates the other.

Comments: Entrants MUST specify carbonation level (still, petillant, or sparkling). Entrants MUST specify
sweetness (dry or medium). Entrants MUST specify what fruit(s) and/or fruit juice(s) were added.
A

Applewine
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004

Other
Specialty
Cider/Perry
Minnesota Home Brewers Association: Sean P. Hewitt 8/14/2004
 28C. Applewine
Category 28: SPECIALITY CIDER AND PERRY

OG: 1.070 – 1.100 ABV: 9 – 12% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.002

semi-sweet: 1.002 – 1.012
sweet: 1.012+

Commercial Examples: AeppelTreow "Appely", Irvine's Vintage Ciders.

Aroma: Comparable to a Common Cider. Cider character must be distinctive. Very dry to slightly medium.

Appearance: Clear to brilliant, pale to medium-gold. Cloudiness or hazes are inappropriate. Dark colors are not
expected unless strongly tannic varieties of fruit were used.

Flavor: Same as Aroma.

Mouthfeel:. Lighter than other ciders, because higher alcohol is derived from addition of sugar rather than juice.
Carbonation may range from still to champagne-like.

Overall Impression: Like a dry white wine, balanced, and with low astringency and bitterness.

Comments: Entrants MUST specify carbonation level (still, petillant, or sparkling). Entrants MUST specify
sweetness (dry or medium).

28D. Other Specialty Cider/Perry

Category 28: SPECIALITY CIDER AND PERRY

OG: 1.045 – 1.100 ABV: 5 – 12% FG: dry: 0.990 – 1.002

semi-sweet: 1.002 – 1.012
sweet: 1.012+

Commercial Examples:

Aroma: The cider character must always be present, and must fit with adjuncts.

Appearance: Clear to brilliant. Color should be that of a common cider unless adjuncts are expected to contribute
color.

Flavor: Same as Aroma.

Mouthfeel:. Average body, may show tannic (astringent) or heavy body as determined by adjuncts.

Overall Impression:

Comments: Entrants MUST specify all major ingredients and adjuncts. Entrants MUST specify carbonation level
(still, petillant, or sparkling). Entrants MUST specify sweetness (dry or medium).