Beer Style Definitions

[Bowhunter]

Hi Beer Brewers:

I am interested in locating a source that will define the different categories of beers ie. What defines an Ale, a Stout, a Pilsner, a Porter, a lager etc. I really would like to know what I am drinking when someone hands me a glass of beer.

Thanks

Tom

[BillyBock]

Tom:

You can find everything you need to know about styles from the BJCP (Beer Judge Certification Program) site. These are the guidelines judges use to rate beer in homebrew competitions.

http://www.bjcp.org/style-index.html

v/r
Bill

[fitz]

Billy, you forgot another obvious place, right here in the recipe files, and calculator. We have style definitions for all of the styles here.

[Bowhunter]

Thanks for your help.

[BillyBock]

You're right, Fitz. I completely spaced that one. Shame on me, will the brewing gods forgive me?

[fitz]

I think they will understand.
Just incase though as your penance, send me a case of your finest Ale.
Ha

[Smiley Dan]

Is it just me? It appears the style comparison in beer tools does not match the 2008 BJCP guidelines? I was looking at the belgian dark strong ales and some other beglians. Is it suppose to match?
Thanks for any replies and help.

[jeff]

Is it just me? It appears the style comparison in beer tools does not match the 2008 BJCP guidelines? I was looking at the belgian dark strong ales and some other beglians. Is it suppose to match?
Thanks for any replies and help.

The site is still using the 2004 guidelines. The latest version of the BeerTools Pro beta has the 2008 guidelines installed and the site will be updated with them as well. Thanks for your patience.