It was the Greek philosopher Aristotle who once professed: “Quality is not an act, it is a habit.”
We’re not sure if Aristotle ever brewed a batch of beer, but if he had, there’s a good chance Brewers Association director Paul Gatza would have enjoyed it. Last year, Gatza urged Craft Brewers Conference attendees to pay closer attention to the quality of their finished products, pleading with them by saying, “don’t f*ck it up!”
Following his rallying cry, the discussion of “quality beer” was had at various industry events and atop many bartstools across the country. Now the BA, via its “Quality Subcommittee,” has introduced an official definition:
“A beer that is responsibly produced using wholesome ingredients, consistent brewing techniques and good manufacturing practices, which exhibits flavor characteristics that are consistently aligned with both the brewer’s and beer drinker’s expectations.”
Gatza, for his part, believes quality is an “abstract concept” and said that some parts of the definition will mean something different to those reading. Regarding the decision to use the word “wholesome” when describing ingredients, Gatza said, “I think that is one that is left for the interpretation of the reader.” CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL STORY AT BREWBOUND.COM
