Why might it be detrimental to judge entries in the wrong flight?

Judging entries in the wrong flight can lead to unfair evaluations due to the distinct characteristics that define specific beer styles. Each flight is curated to represent a certain category of beers that share flavor profiles, aroma, mouthfeel, and overall appearance. When beers are judged outside their appropriate context, it becomes challenging to assess them against the standards that define their respective styles.

For example, if a judge evaluates a stout alongside a pale ale, each beer's unique attributes may not be accurately appreciated due to the contrasting nature of the styles. The stout may be perceived as overly heavy and lacking in crispness compared to the pale ale's refreshing qualities. This misjudgment does not reflect the true quality of either beer within its intended category.

Thus, the fundamental purpose of having flights organized by style is to ensure that judges can provide fair and standardized evaluations based on the guidelines established for each type of beer. Such an approach promotes the integrity of the judging process and upholds the standards of the competition.