The Competitions are structured to broadly reflect the global market for beer in broad categories that would be understood by the majority of consumers.

The information below reflects the competition struction as per the 2005 competition, although the Judging Panel are currently considering the categories with the probability that they will be recommending changes to reflect a more international perspective. 

9 categories/competitions comprising 27 classes in total, offering a total of 81 Awards

Gold Award winners in each category are re-judged by the entire panel to select the Champion Beer (and trophy winner) for that category. No supreme champion is determined.

Virtually every beer brewed commercially should be able to find a place in one of the classes. If in doubt, view the style guide from the button the left. If you are still uncertain, contact the Chairman of Judges at +44(0) 1902 422303 or e-mail chairman@brewingawards.org

2011 Categories & Classes - Closing date for entries to be announced

 Classes below show ABV% bands or alternative definition 

draught & packaged beers (smallpack) beers

• The International Speciality Beers Competition - 3 classes (all up to 11.5%)

1. Wheat

2.Fruit

3. Other special ingredients

Trophy previously sponsored by The British Guild of Beer Writers The International Lager Competition - 4 classes (up to 6.9%) 1. 2.5 - 4.4    2.  4.5 - 5.5    3.  5.6 - 6.9    4. Organic 2.5 - 6.9 Trophy previously sponsored by Brewers' Guardian Magazine  The International Ale Competition - 4 classes (up to 6.9%) 1.  2.5 - 4.3 2.  4.4 - 5.1   3.  5.2 - 6.9 4.  Organic 2.5 - 6.9 Trophy previously sponsored by Brewing & Distilling International Magazine

• The International Strong Beer Competition - 3 classes (all 7.0% or above)

1. Lager

2. Ale

3. Dark

Trophy previously sponsored by ‘Brauwelt International’ magazine

• The International Dark Milds, Stouts & Porters Competition - 4 classes

1. Cask & Keg 2.5 - 4.1

2. Cask & Keg 4.2 - 6.9

3. Smallpack 2.5 - 4.8

4. Smallpack 4.9 - 6.9

Trophy previously sponsored by ‘The Brewer & Distiller’ magazine

• The International Non-Alcoholic & Low-Alcohol Beers Competition - 2 classes

1. Non (up to 1.1%)

2. Low 1.2 - 2.4

Trophy previously sponsored by The UK All Party Parliamentary Beer Group

draught beers
• The International Lager Competition - 2 classes
1. 2.5 - 4.5										2. 4.6 - 6.9
Trophy sponsored by The Brewing Food & Beverage Industry Suppliers’ Association (BFBi)
• The International Keg Ales Competition - 2 classes
1. 2.5 - 3.8										2. 3.9 - 6.9
Trophy previously sponsored by Drinktec, Munich
• The International Cask Conditioned Ale Competition - 3 classes
1. 2.5 - 3.8										2. 3.9 - 4.5	3. 4.6 - 6.9
Trophy previously sponsored by ‘The Morning Advertiser’ newspaper

Any questions on how to enter? E-mail: chairman@brewingawards.org