I swore off competitions after getting my scoresheets back from the AHA competition and the judges dinging me for qualities in the beer that were clearly stated in the BJCP as being part of the style. Pissed me off.
I've met a few, let's call them "cocky", judges that refuse to give a beer that is within style a good score if it is not within their "personal idea" of the style. For example: if a dopplebock was light in color, he
specifically stated he would give it a 13. Dopplebocks actually have two versions: light and dark. Both are discussed in the BJCP. The light version should not receive a 13 based on color alone.
Sh*t like that really pisses me off, especially from "high ranking" judges. I studied very hard for my BJCP exam, nearly got a Master score on the first try, I review the guidelines and keep an open mind when judging. I am often looked down upon by these same "cocky" judges just because I'm new to the ranks.
When I judge a beer, I always keep in mind how I would feel if I got this score sheet back. It is always completely filled out. The scores generally match the comments. The Overall Impression score is usually an average of the other scores. I never assume what ingredients or processes were used in the beer, but I can say, "If xxx was used, try this..." I won't ever just say, "Too much Pilsner". That is unfair to the entrant who paid good money to enter and most likely ship their entries to the competition.
That being said, I would email the judge directly. I've done that several times, especially when the Flavor section ended in "Alcohol warmth is...". YIKES.
