What do yall think about judges that dont follow the style guidelines? It seems to me the more experience a judge has, the less likely he or she is to pay attention to the published guidelines.
As an example, My first competition entry was an American Pale Ale. I didnt use any citrus hops. A judge told me , Yeah its not required, but judges expect it. ???? I realize the guidelines are from 2008, but arent they still valid?
Its not just the pale ale C hop arms race, I could give other examples. Do styles evolve? Am I wrong to take these guidelines literally? It bums me when the winner is out of style. Is it just me, or do other people think we should use the style guidelines?
As an example, My first competition entry was an American Pale Ale. I didnt use any citrus hops. A judge told me , Yeah its not required, but judges expect it. ???? I realize the guidelines are from 2008, but arent they still valid?
Thats for 10a American Pale Ale. Maybe we should use this description:Usually a moderate to high hop flavor, often showing a citrusy American hop flavor(although other hop varieties may be used).
Oh wait, then what are we going to use for 14b, American IPA?Hop flavor is medium to high, and should reflect an American hop character with citrusy, floral, resinous, piney or fruity aspects
Sound familiar? I took that from 14c Imperial IPA. Now what are we going to use for 14c?Hop flavor is strong and complex. High to absurdly high hop bitterness, although the malt backbone will generally support the strong hop character and provide the best balance
Super insane slap your momma mule kick hop flavor. Malt flavors are considered a fault
Its not just the pale ale C hop arms race, I could give other examples. Do styles evolve? Am I wrong to take these guidelines literally? It bums me when the winner is out of style. Is it just me, or do other people think we should use the style guidelines?