If beers are not served at the proper temperature, what should judges do?

When beers are not served at the proper temperature, judges have a responsibility to ensure that the competition is fair and that the beers can be evaluated properly. Working with the competition staff to resolve the issue is essential because serving beers at incorrect temperatures can significantly alter their flavor profiles and aromatic qualities. Proper serving temperature allows judges to assess the beer as intended by the brewer, which is crucial for accurate evaluation.

In addressing temperature discrepancies, judges can collaborate with staff to either adjust the serving temperature or find a way to indicate this issue to entrants and other judges. This proactive approach not only emphasizes the importance of serving beers at their optimal conditions but also maintains the integrity of the judging process. By resolving the temperature issue rather than ignoring it or jumping to disqualify entries, judges foster a more constructive environment for both entrants and the integrity of the competition.