European Beer Star (EBS) is one of the worldâs most prestigious beer competitions, emphasizing in particular traditional European styles of beer. Registration is currently open and being accepted until September 17thâthere is an early-bird discount until June 25th. We hope Japanese brewers will take the challenge! Japan has usually fared well at this competition, perhaps because the early years of the craft beer movement in Japan (the late 1990s) were heavily influenced by European brewing traditions.
The competition, founded in 2004, extends prizes to âhigh quality beers, which are genuine and full of characterâ. In 2021 there are 71 categories, including a new one called âFree-Style Beerâ, which recognizes that even in Europe, where traditional beer styles remain quite popular, there are brewers who want to tap into their creativity. When you think about it, many beer styles were the result of innovative brewers freestyling a little bit. This category is perhaps a glimpse of the future of beer.
Beers entered into the competition are evaluated by panels of industry professionals. While brewers that win medals can certainly benefit from the sweet glory showered on them (sales boosts are sweet, too), even participating has its merits. Brewers of course receive valuable feedback from judges. Descriptions of the categories are available in a downloadable pdf from the website, as are entries forms and other important information.
If youâre a brewer in Japan with limited English skill, donât let the category descriptions in English intimidate you. Reach out to a fellow brewer in Japan that can help, or whip out that dictionary. Make this a double challenge (though you can write to us for a little help if you really need it; we donât receive any commissions). We want to see the shelves of your brewery or taproom crowded with trophies. Good luck!
