For the September 2024 meeting; we have selected a single category, Experimental Beer. This catch-all style has relatively no guidance and is open to wide interpretation and creativity, which is why we left it stand on its own. Hopefully we see some creative recipes that perhaps challenge our palates on what we expect in beer – while also being pleasing to drink (hopefully).

34C. Experimental Beer

This is explicitly a catch-all category for any beer that does not fit into an Existing Style description. No beer is ever “out of style” in this style, unless it can be entered in another beer style first. This is the last resort for any beer entered into a competition. With the broad definition for previous styles, this style should be rarely used.

Overall Impression

Varies, but should be a unique experience.

Aroma / Appearance / Flavor / Mouthfeel

Varies.

Comments

This style cannot represent a well-known commercial beer (otherwise it would be a Commercial Specialty Beer) and cannot fit into any other existing Specialty-Type Beer style (including those within this major category).

Entry Instructions

The entrant must specify the special nature of the experimental beer, including the special ingredients or processes that make it not fit elsewhere in the guidelines. The entrant must provide vital statistics for the beer, and either a brief sensory description or a list of ingredients used in making the beer. Without this information, judges will have no basis for evaluation.

Vital Statistics

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

BJCP 2021 Style Guide