Becoming a Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) judge is an exciting journey for beer enthusiasts who are passionate about evaluating and critiquing different beer styles. It not only provides a deeper understanding of beer but also offers opportunities to participate in competitions and contribute to the brewing community. In this article, we will explore the steps you need to take to become a BJCP judge.
Step 1: Study and Learn
The first step on your path to becoming a BJCP judge is to immerse yourself in the world of beer. Take the time to study different beer styles, their ingredients, brewing techniques, and flavor profiles. This knowledge will be invaluable when it comes to evaluating beers according to BJCP guidelines.
Step 2: Gain Experience
Once you have a solid foundation of beer knowledge, it’s time to gain hands-on experience. Attend beer festivals, tastings, and local brewery events to expand your palate and discover the nuances of various beer styles. The more exposure you have to different beers, the better equipped you’ll be to judge them accurately.
Step 3: Join the BJCP
To become a BJCP judge, you need to become a member of the organization. Visit the BJCP website and create an account. Pay the membership fee, which helps support the program, and provides you with access to study materials, exams, and other resources.
Step 4: Study the Guidelines
The BJCP provides comprehensive guidelines that outline the characteristics and expectations for every beer style. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines to understand what judges look for in each style. Study the flavor profiles, aroma, appearance, and other essential aspects of each beer category.
Step 5: Take the Exam
Once you feel confident in your knowledge and experience, it’s time to take the BJCP beer judging exam. The exam consists of a written portion and a tasting portion. The written part tests your understanding of beer styles, while the tasting portion allows you to demonstrate your ability to evaluate and describe different beers.
Step 6: Earn Certification
After successfully passing the BJCP exam, you will receive a score and be awarded one of several certification levels based on your exam results and experience points earned. The certifications range from Recognized beer judge, for those just starting, to Certified beer judge, for those with more advanced knowledge and experience in beer judging.
Step 7: Continue Learning and Growing
Becoming a BJCP judge is not the end of the journey; it’s just the beginning. To stay current and continue developing your skills, engage in ongoing education and participate in tasting panels, competitions, and workshops. This will help you refine your palate, expand your knowledge, and network with other beer enthusiasts and professionals.
Step 8: Give Back to the Community
As a certified BJCP judge, you have the opportunity to contribute to the brewing community by volunteering your expertise at competitions and events. Sharing your knowledge and providing constructive feedback to brewers will help foster growth and improvement in the industry.
Conclusion
Becoming a BJCP judge requires dedication, passion, and a thirst for knowledge about the wonderful world of beer. By studying, gaining experience, joining the BJCP, passing the exam, and continuing to learn and give back, you can embark on a rewarding journey as a knowledgeable and respected beer judge. Cheers to your future endeavors in the world of beer!
