The BJCP Holds Its First Beer-Judging Exam

On May 31, 1985, the Beer Judge Certification Program held its first examination during the American Homebrewers Association conference in Estes Park, Colorado. The BJCP had been established as a joint initiative of the American Homebrewers Association and the Home Wine and Beer Trade Association. Pat Baker was the driving force behind the program, with support from Charlie Papazian. Fifty-one people took the inaugural examination. The BJCP developed a structured system for examining, certifying, and ranking beer judges while promoting more consistent evaluation in homebrew competitions. It also became widely known for its detailed beer-style guidelines, which serve judges, competition organizers, and brewers. Revised beer style guidelines were released in December 2021, replacing the 2015 edition.