• 21. FRUIT BEER

    Aroma:

    The character of the particular fruit(s) should be distinctive in the aroma. Overall the aroma should be a balanced combination of malt, hops and the featured fruit(s) as appropriate to the specific type of beer being presented. If the base beer is an ale then general fruitiness and other fermentation byproducts such as diacetyl may be present as appropriate for the warmer fermentation. If the base beer is a lager, then overall less fermentation byproducts would be appropriate. Some malt aroma preferable, especially in dark styles; hop aroma absent or balanced with fruit, depending on the style. The overall aroma should be balanced and harmonious.

    Appearance:

    Appearance should be appropriate to the base beer being presented and will vary depending on the base beer. For lighter beers with fruits that exhibit distinctive colors, the color should be noticeable.

    Flavor:

    The character of the particular fruit(s) should be distinctive in the flavor profile. Hop bitterness, flavor, malt flavors, alcohol content and fermentation byproducts, such as diacetyl, should be appropriate to the base beer and harmonious and balanced with the distinctive fruit flavors present.

    Mouthfeel:

    Mouthfeel may vary depending on the base beer selected and as appropriate to that base beer. Body and carbonation levels should be appropriate to the base beer style being presented.

    Overall Impression:

    A harmonious marriage of fruit and beer.

    Comments:

    Overall balance is the key to presenting a well-made fruit beer. The fruit should complement the original style and not overwhelm it. The brewer should recognize that some combinations of base beer styles and fruits work well together while others do not make for harmonious combinations. The entrant must specify the underlying beer style as well as the type of fruit(s) used. If the base beer is a classic style, the original style should come through in aroma and flavor. Judges should remember that many fruits dry out classic styles.

    Vital Statistics:

    OG, FG, IBUs, SRM and ABV will vary depending on the underlying base beer.

    Commercial Examples:

    Oxford Raspberry Wheat, Oregon Blackberry Porter, Pyramid Apricot Ale, Rogue 'n' Berry, Brimstone Blueberry Wheat, Oaken Barrel Raspberry Wheat.