Less means more at AIBA awards

Warren Pawsey’s tough job might get a little bit easier in the future.

Pawsey is the head judge for the Australian International Beer Awards and last week was a tough task, even if some brew lovers believe it is their form of utopia.

But remember, unlike wine tasters beer judges have to swallow and that means a dizzy head after consuming some of the strongest, yet best, brews on the market.

That could change if Pawsey’s crystal ball is clear.

According to the chief brewer at Little Creatures less could mean more in terms of the alcohol kick from our favourite beverages.

So it will be interesting the gauge the low alcohol category at tomorrow’s AIBA awards considering Pawsey can see a trend among brewers to investigate mid-range beers.

It is especially significant as there wasn’t a winner in the section at last year’s awards in Melbourne.

“Yes, it did surprise that no gold medal was awarded,” Pawsey said.

“The 3.5 per cent mid-strength range is the biggest selling category so there is a strong section there.
“And I suppose there is the well-being effect from those types of beers.

“But it happened in America. There was hop armageddon. Everyone wanted to make their IPAs more bitter.

“We can see that happening here with the session IPAs. There are good examples around with some craft brewers taking on the big brewers.”

Bridge Road’s Little Bling (IPA). Feral’s Watermelon Warhead (Berliner Weiss) and of course Little Creatures Rogers fit that mid-to-low alcohol range.

Queensland’s XXXX Gold is among the top two consumed beers in the country.

Pawsey was impressed with the process of this year’s AIBA awards which featured 1550 entries across a diverse range to styles.

The pleasing aspect was the judging panels increased from 38 to 58, indicating there is considerable knowledge across the country.

“This is what I’ve been waiting 28 years to enjoy,” Pawsey said.

“There is a diverse range of beers and the public want to try it, talk about it, get on social media and discuss it. They want to match it with food.

“So the awards should be a great night to talk beer.”