If a gusher beer is encountered, what should the judge do?

If a gusher beer is encountered, the most appropriate action is to request a second bottle. A gusher is characterized by excessive carbonation causing the beer to bubble over when opened, which can affect the assessment of the beer's flavor, aroma, appearance, and other critical attributes.

By opting for a second bottle, the judge allows for a fair evaluation under normal conditions, where the beer can be poured properly without the interference of excessive foaming. This ensures that the judge can accurately assess the beer based on its intended characteristics.

In competitive beer judging, maintaining the integrity of the evaluation is paramount. While some judges might score the gusher as it is or ask for a replacement, the request for a second bottle is the standard approach to ensure that the assessment can be done correctly and consistently.