Tasting Exam (style differentiation)

For the style differentiation portion of the tasting exam, you will be given a sample of beer and two beer style names. You will be asked which style the sample is most representative of. There are four samples in this portion of the test.

Start preparing for this section of the test by reading the BJCP Beer Style Comparison.

Next, think about what styles of beer have similar ingredients. For example, both Germany, Belgium, France, and America all make wheat beers. Look at all wheat styles of beer to find similarities.

Think about interpretations of the same style that come from different countries. For example, both England and America make Barleywines, Pale Ales, and IPAs.

Make a Post-It note for each BJCP beer style and put them on your refrigerator. As you taste through different beer styles, group the Post-Its by flavor similarities, then refer to the BJCP Style Guide to help pinpoint the sources of similarities and differences.

Here are a few examples to think about:

Porter vs Stout

The difference between porter and stout is the source of so much debate that you are virtually guaranteed of being asked this question. 

One thing to look for is the use of roasted barley in stouts, but then, roasted barley is also used in some robust porters. 

Don't so get hung up on one aspect of a beer that you ignore other clues. Body, aroma, and color are important too.

Witbier vs American Wheat Beer

Witbier gets its name from its white, cloudy appearance. Compare how the two styles look side by side. 

Witbier, which is flavored with orange peel and coriander, is a little more floral and aromatic than American Wheat Beer.

English IPA vs American IPA

The main difference here is in the varieties and amounts of hops used. American hops have a citrus & pine scent that gives them away.

Doppelbock vs Dubel

Both are dark and malty. Doppelbocks are made with a decoction mash and Dubels use candi sugar. The giveaway is that Belgian yeast gives Dubels a very different aroma than lager yeast gives to Doppelbocks.
 
Pilsner vs Kölsch vs Cream Ale vs Blonde Ale

Pilsner will be cleaner tasting than kölsch, which will have higher carbonation and fruity esters when compared to a pilsner.

Cream ale will have high carbonation, but will have a corn aroma instead of a hop aroma.

Blonde ale will be the most malt focused of the bunch, with light malt & biscuit aromas and flavors, with an absence of corn aroma.