Well, as the media stories last week showed, judging in the 21st Australian International Beer Awards was conducted last week. Now, the next step is to find out who the winners are.

Australian Brews News is very proud to announce that our very own Pete Mitcham has been asked to host the awards with the every-bit-as-lovely Julia Jenkins, of Josie Bones fame.

Pete is no stranger to regular readers and to listeners of Radio Brews News and his being asked to host the 2nd largest international beer awards presentation is another string to his well-strung bow that includes representing Australia as a tong-master at thebarbecuechampionships in the US.

Well done Pete (and Julia, of course), if we weren’t already looking to the awards dinner during Good Beer Week, we most certainly are now.

Media Release

Judging concludes for the 21st Australian International Beer Awards

After a packed week of judging an impressive 1,480 beers from around the globe, judges for the Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA) wrapped up on Friday, 12 April 2013.

The highly regarded international competition brings together the best brews competing for the prestigious Trophies and awards.

The expert panel of over 40 judges sampled more than 220 lagers, 140 IPAs, 171 Pale Ales and 272 other Ales, 87 Pilsners, 95 Wheat Beers and a range of styles in between.

AIBA Chief Judge, Brad Rogers, was impressed with this year’s entries.

“Since the AIBA launched 21 years ago entries continue to grow and improve in quality, and this year was no exception.

“Several new categories have been introduced for 2013 including recognition for the best medium sized brewery to better reflect a growing industry, as well as new Trophies for Champion Australian Beer of Show and Champion International Beer of Show,” said Rogers.

All changes were well received by the judges including the use of improved technology during the judging period. This included the use of laptops for immediate results to determine what was judged for the final taste off.

The Awards were supported by stewards from the brewing industry, reflecting increased interest and professional support behind the scenes.

The winners will be announced at the AIBA Presentation Dinner, on Thursday, 23 May 2013 at Peninsula, Docklands. Tickets can be purchased at www.rasv.com.au/beer.

The AIBA is the pre-eminent showcase for premium beer and brewing excellence in the Asia Pacific region and is presented by the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV) in conjunction with the University of Ballarat.