A battle for the best IPA in Japan? That sounds like the kind of excitement we need right now.
The Alpha Championship 2021 is open for submissions, offering breweries in Japan a chance to battle for the IPA crown.

The deadline for entry registration is February 15th, and more than half the spots of a total of forty are already filled. Following registration, beers should be submitted between February 17th and 24th. If you’re a brewer in Japan proud of your IPA, this is a contest you should definitely consider entering. There are prizes and, of course, there is glory. You’ll also receive feedback from judges.

“This contest is a great opportunity for brewers large and small to showcase their hoppy beers,” says Jason Koehler, one of the organizers. “The blind format allows for tasting to take place without brand expectations to get in the way, and the open format allows for a lot of variation and fun!”

The competition is organized by EverGreen Imports, a veteran importer of fine craft beer from Washington state as well as hops from Yakima Chief. Watering Hole, Japan Beer Times, Transporter, and Yakima Chief Hops itself are supporters of the competition. Judging will be conducted by craft beer industry professionals and will take place at Watering Hole in Tokyo. Results will be announced March 14th, and will include first through third prizes, as well as a people’s choice award.

For more details in both English and Japanese, please visit the official website.
https://plusalphachampion.com