Courtney Conroy and other Ale Works’ employees will be on hand during the competition to make sure everyone has a good time. Photos by Jordan Clary
Although known for its beer, Lassen Ale Works also keeps a good supply of wine available. Bartender Jessie Lawson holds a bottle of sauvignon blanc.
Home brewers more than 21 years of age from Lassen and Plumas counties are eligible to enter their best home brew. Photo submitted

Oct. 16, 2012 — Home brewers of Lassen and Plumas counties take note: Lassen Ale Works at the Pioneer Saloon will be holding its first annual home brewers competition beginning at 5 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 30.

The folks at the Ale Works are inviting home brewers to enter their finest homemade brew, whether it’s a bock, bitter, blonde, Belgian, stout, steam beer, schwartzbier, hefeweizen, IPA, lager, lambic or kolsch.

Their panel will taste and judge all entries.

The winner will brew their own recipe on Lassen Ale Work’s very nice half-barrel system alongside brewmaster, Erik Jefferts. The winner will also have his or her name and special brew promoted and poured from the shiny tabs at the Pioneer Saloon. Plus, you will receive two custom tap handles that will be yours to keep after they have finished pouring all of the winner’s beer.

Rules for entry are: You must be a Lassen or Plumas county resident and 21 years of age or older. There is a limit of three beers per competitor. Any style is acceptable. · You must deliver a minimum of 64 ounces to the Pioneer Saloon. ·Beers can be dropped off beginning at 11 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 25 through 7 p.m., Oct. 29. Early or late entries will not be accepted. ·Beer must be delivered in sealed and labeled container(s). Glass growlers or bottles of any size are also okay. Smaller bottles will be combined in one pitcher for tasting. ·Each beer container must be labeled. Labels must include a clearly legible brewer’s name and contact information, the beer’s name, beer style and the approximate alcohol content.

The beers will be judged by a panel of six to eight judges, each of whom will taste every beer. The beers will be kept chilled until 30 minutes before tasting and will be tasted from lightest to darkest. Ties will be decided by brewmaster Erik Jefferts.

The entries will be judged based on appearance, aroma, taste and overall qualities.

Other contestants will be able to get the glory of having their beer named as most unusual beer, best beer name or truest to style. Other categories will be announced before the day of the competition.

To pick up an entry form, contact Lassen Ale Works at 724 Main Street, Susanville or call them at 257-7666. You can also email them at info@lassenaleworks.com.