Update: For all of you with your panties in a bunch, please note that I just got a call from the Onion and you’ll be happy to note that you only need to submit two beers and it’ll be BJCP sanctioned. Adam Stern is involved with the judging. They’ll also be having a corresponding event at Town Hall on Tues., Dec. 18th at 7:00pm.

Details:
Bring a home brewed six pack by December 18th to the Onion, 212 3rd Ave. North, #334, Minneapolis, MN 55401.

Prizes?
-An autographed copy of Land of Amber Waters: The History of Brewing in Minnesota by Doug Hoverson.

-10 cases of beer from Minnesota breweries including: Summit, Gluek’s Schell’s, Grain Belt, Brau Brothers, Town Hall, Great Waters, The herkimer, Flat Earth and Surly.

-$50 gift certificate to Northern Brewer.

Commentary:
There’s been a bit of talk about this one among local homebrewers, both with enthusiasm and a healthy dose of skepticism. It sounds like fun and the prizes are certainly good, however a six pack is a lot of precious homebrew to give up for a contest. I’m not sure if the Onion staff knows what their up for, given the size of Minnesota’s homebrewing community. Six beers per entry is a lot of beer, and no doubt the judges will be drunk and tired by the time they’re finished.

There’s also a bit of curiosity among brewers as to what will constitute a winner. I’m assuming it’s just “best beer,” sort of a “best of show.” It doesn’t sound like an easy task, though that opinion comes from a beer nerd. From what I understand, local BJCP judges haven’t been asked to take part, either.

And then, of course, the prizes. 10 cases of local beer sounds great and that certainly makes sense for the breweries, but what about the brewpubs? A case of growlers perhaps? Count me in.

Perhaps the Onion needs some “celebrity” local beer nerds as judges? I know five local beer bloggers that consume their fair share of local beer! Ahem.