Developing a better understanding of beer styles allows brewers to be better competitors and judges.  This doesn't necessarily make you a better brewer, but in the field of competitive brewing, beers are judged to style.  A sound understanding of the profiles and ingredients which define a style greatly increases your chances of making (or judging) a beer better.

The Beer Judge Certification Program has created the BJCP Style Guidelines which are used in virtually all homebrewing competitions as the standard for styles.  These guidelines can be found here. 

The Brewing Network has compiled an excellent series of podcasts led by Jamil Zainasheff covering details of each of the BJCP beer styles and how to brew them.  These podcasts are an excellent resource for brewers looking to brew a particularl style and are also a great way for judges to freshen up on what defines a certain beer style profile and how it is built up.  We strongly encourage listening to these podcasts to get ready for your next brew day, judging session, or BJCP exam.

Note: As additional podcasts become available, the links will be updated.  Last updated 24 November 2008.

Recommend right clicking on style and selecting "Save Target As"