BEER JUDGING TERMS and DEFINITIONS

ABV (Alcohol by Volume) A measurement of the alcohol content of a solution in terms of the percentage volume of alcohol per volume of beer. To approximately calculate the volumetric alcohol content, subtract the terminal gravity from the original gravity and divide the result by 8.

Bitterness In beer, the bitter flavor and aroma are caused by the tannins and the acids in hops. When tasting beer a distinction is made between the first bitterness, when the liquid touches the tastebuds, and the post-bitterness felt at the back of the mouth when the beer is swallowed. The degree of bitterness will be as expected in the particular style of beer.

EBU (European Bittering Units) Used for determining the bitterness in beers. To calulate the quantity of hops required to achieve the desired EBU, use the following formula:

EBU Required x Volume (litres)

---------------------------------- = Weight of hops in grammes

Alpha Acid % x 2 (utilisation)