When familiar with a beer style, should you rely more on BJCP guidelines or personal expertise?

Relying solely on personal expertise can lead to a unique understanding and appreciation of beer styles that might not fully align with established guidelines. This approach allows for creativity and personal interpretation, which can enhance the enjoyment of beer and brewing. It recognizes the individuality that often characterizes brewers and drinkers, allowing one to appreciate nuances and subtleties that structured guidelines may not capture.

However, it's important to consider that personal expertise, while valuable, may be influenced by personal biases and subjective preferences. Beer styles are defined by characteristics and standards outlined in guidelines such as those from the BJCP. Integrating both personal experience and established guidelines can create a deeper understanding of the style and help maintain consistency and authenticity.

Guidelines provide a framework to ensure the qualities and expectations for each beer style are met, while personal expertise allows for a richer, more nuanced perception. Balancing both aspects can lead to a more comprehensive appreciation of beer styles, as the framework sets a baseline for comparison while personal experience adds depth and individuality to that understanding.