Big Batch Brew Bash
2023 BBBB entry forms link is live.
See the link at the bottom of this page.
The Next Big Batch: Sunday, June 25th, 2023
The 2023 style will follow the BJCP Style 21B, Specialty IPA
Specialty IPA is a competition entry category, not a distinct style. Beers entered here are not experimental beers; they are a collection of currently-produced types of beer that may or may not have any market longevity. This category also allows for expansion, so potential future IPA variants have a place to be entered without rewriting the style guidelines. The only common element is that they have the balance and overall impression of an IPA (typically, an American IPA) but with some minor tweak.
Overall Impression: Recognizable as an IPA by balance – a hop-forward, bitter, dryish beer – with something else present to distinguish it from the standard categories. Should have good drinkability, regardless of the form. Excessive harshness and heaviness are typically faults, as are strong flavor clashes between the hops and the other specialty ingredients.
Appearance: Color depends on specific type of Specialty IPA. Most should be clear, but a slight haze is acceptable in most styles. Darker types can be opaque, making clarity irrelevant. Good, persistent head stand with color dependent on the specific type of Specialty IPA.
Aroma: Detectable hop aroma is required; characterization of hops is dependent on the specific type of Specialty IPA. Other aromatics may be present; hop aroma is typically the strongest element.
Flavor: Variable by type, with the quality of each component dependent on the specific Specialty IPA. Hop flavor typically medium-low to high. Hop bitterness typically medium-high to very high. Malt flavor generally low to medium. Commonly has a medium-dry to dry finish. Some clean alcohol flavor can be noted in stronger versions. Various types of Specialty IPAs can show additional malt and yeast characteristics, depending on the type.
Mouthfeel: Smooth. Medium-light to medium body. Medium carbonation, generally. A background alcohol warmth can be perceived in stronger versions.
Comments: Entrants may use this category for a different strength version of an IPA defined by its own BJCP subcategory (e.g., session-strength American or English IPA) – except where an existing BJCP subcategory already exists for that style (e.g., double [American] IPA). A Session IPA is a 21B Specialty IPA with a base style of 21A American IPA with Session strength. A Double IPA is Category 22A not 21B.
Style Comparison: Currently Defined Types: Belgian IPA, Black IPA, Brown IPA, Red IPA, Rye IPA, White IPA, Brut IPA
Deadline for entry: Friday, June 16th, 2023 by 5 pm
BBBB 26 flyer.
Please note that only entries with blank bottle caps will be accepted.
Drop Off Locations
Shipping Location
BBBB
c/o Allegra Printing
15020 Mintz Lane
Houston, Texas 77014
Entry Requirements:
Each entry shall consist of 3 12 oz bottles along with a completed entry form.
Anyone (21 years of age or older) is eligible to enter.
All entries must be non-commercial, home-produced beer.
Up to two entries per brewer/team will be accepted. If a brewer enters a beer as a team entry, that will count as one of their two entries.
There is no entry fee!
Entry to BBBB/Bottle ID Forms:
Please clink on this link to fill out your official entry. After completion of the form, you will receive an email with your already-filled bottle ID forms to attach to your bottles. Each entry will require a submission - please note only two entries per brewer will be accepted. If a brewer enters a beer as a team entry then it will count as one of the two allotted entries per brewer. If you have any issues with entering your beer, please contact Katie Gentry at ministeroftabloid@thekgb.org.
Please use this link to enter the competition.