A few weeks back, I entered the Wil Wheat beer in a local competition. I knew that it was off-style when I created the recipe, but was interested in some feedback. Surprisingly it took “runner up”. The judging notes (below) reflect that it was a very well made brew – just too hoppy for a traditional American Wheat:

Judge 1: 37/50 very good

Aroma 10/12

Nice citrus aroma. Super clean.

Appearance 3/3

Excellent. Super clear. Within style.

Flavor 14/20

Slightly bitter for style by like 15 IBUs. Clean Fermentation characteristics. Solid hop aroma.

Mouthfeel 3/5

Bitterness is working against you here.

Overall Impression 7/10

Solid effort. Just a bit too bitter/astringent from the hopping. Try using low cohumulone hops, in lower quantity for bittering addition.

Judge 2: 34/50 very good

Aroma 8/12

Low malt aroma behind hop aroma. Decent ester aroma. Spicy aroma of hops. No diacetal.

Appearance 3/3

Yellow, good clarity, decent head retention.

Flavor 10/20

Wow that’s bitter! Good hop bill, decent balance though way too hoppy. Good ester flavors – strawberry.

Mouthfeel 5/5

Medium body, moderate carbonation, light alcohol warmth.

Overall Impression 8/10

Way too bitter. Like a wheat IPA. Pretty good beer though. I like it but it is stylistically off due to bitterness.