BJCP 2021 / 34C
Experimental Beer
A beer that offers a unique experience and fits no other style.
- Drink fresh
- specialty beer
Serve: As the brewer intends, Suited to the beer
The BJCP gives no numbers. The brewer declares the beer and its vital statistics.
Taste it in order
Aroma
12 pts- Varies with the declared beer
- Special ingredients or processes show
- Aroma reflects the concept
- Vague
- Weird
- Better
- Distinct from other styles
- Best
- Aroma reflects the declared ingredients and process in a way no other style would
Appearance
3 pts- Varies with the declared beer
- Color and clarity reflect the ingredients
- Head to suit
- Vague
- Odd
- Better
- Reflects the concept
- Best
- Appearance consistent with what the brewer declares
Flavor
20 pts- Varies with the declared beer
- Delivers a unique experience
- Concept executed well
- Vague
- Unusual
- Better
- Delivers the concept
- Best
- Flavor shows the special ingredient or process clearly and pleasantly
Mouthfeel
5 pts- Varies with the declared beer
- Texture reflects the ingredients
- Pleasant
- Vague
- Odd
- Better
- Fits the concept
- Best
- Body and carbonation that suit the declared ingredients
Overall Impression
10 ptsLifts it
- Concept that is clear and well done
Drops it
- A beer that belongs in another style
Writing tip
Judge it on its own terms. Example: 'Clear sourdough note over a pale base, dry and bready. The concept shows.'
Pour these
No examples chosen yet.
Often confused with
- 34B Mixed-Style BeerMixed-Style Beer names real base styles
- 30A Spice, Herb, or Vegetable BeerSpice, Herb, or Vegetable Beer covers added ingredients with a base style
Ruinous here
- Diacetyl: Butter
- Oxidized: Stale
- Yeasty: Raw, unfinished
Style names, numbers and vital statistics follow the BJCP 2021 beer guidelines. Descriptions and example choices are our own. Check a beer is still made before you hunt for it.