In my inaugural Zymurgy Director’s Cut column, published in the May/June 2022 issue, I shared a personal anecdote that has profoundly shaped my journey within the homebrewing community. It was in the 1990s, a pivotal period for craft beverages, that a serendipitous event occurred. The stars seemed to align, the universe offered a clear directive, and Charlie Papazian, the esteemed co-founder of the American Homebrewers Association (AHA), drew my name from a top hat, bestowing upon me an AHA membership. This moment marked the beginning of an unwavering commitment; I have remained an active member of the AHA ever since, a testament to the organization’s enduring impact.
Prior to this transformative experience, my immersion in the world of beer judging was nascent and somewhat clandestine. At a beer festival in Beaver Creek, Colorado, I found myself drawn to the hushed intensity of the competition area. While stewards meticulously poured samples and judges, with discerning palates and keen senses, evaluated them, I was an eager observer, hovering near the periphery. My desire was simple yet fervent: to glean any insight that would propel me towards becoming a certified beer judge. This discreet observation fueled a trajectory that has since manifested in ways I could only have dreamed of, solidifying my passion and commitment to the craft.
The ensuing years have been marked by a series of significant milestones, each woven into the rich tapestry of my homebrewing endeavors. These include countless brews, immersive brewery tours, attendance at numerous beer festivals, and the cultivation of deep friendships with fellow enthusiasts who have become akin to family. Professionally, I have achieved Advanced Cicerone certification, a rigorous program designed to set the highest standards for beer professionals. Furthermore, my dedication to the art of beer evaluation has been recognized through earning 145 combined points in the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP). A personal highlight was achieving a silver medal in the 2003 National Homebrew Competition for an old ale, a collaborative effort with my husband. Throughout each of these accomplishments, my membership in the AHA has served as a consistent source of support and invaluable resources. It is undeniable that my confidence as a brewer, my consistency in execution, and my credibility as a beer judge have been significantly enhanced by my affiliation with the AHA, a sentiment I suspect is shared by many within our vibrant community.
The Philosophy of Beer: More Than Just a Beverage
My core philosophy centers on the belief that beer, and indeed all crafted beverages, are not merely consumables but integral components of the daily human experience and vital expressions within the gastronomic world of art. We, as dedicated beer lovers, transcend the basic need for caloric intake; our pursuit of beer is driven by a desire to quench a higher, more profound thirst. The act of brewing and savoring beer is inherently satisfying, offering a pathway to relaxation, a sense of accomplishment, and a stimulating intellectual challenge. This multifaceted hobby provides an unparalleled avenue for delving into a diverse array of disciplines. It allows for exploration into the intricate sciences of chemistry and physics, the precision of engineering, the nuances of agriculture and geography, the rich narratives of history and herstory, and, perhaps most importantly, a deeper understanding of ourselves and our fellow human beings.
The Personal and Human Element of Homebrewing
This philosophical outlook is intrinsically linked to the tangible practice of homebrewing. It encompasses the act of shopping at local supply stores, the hands-on process of brewing on a stovetop or within the garage, the captivating visual spectacle of high kraeusen developing in the carboy, and the profound joy of sharing the finished product with neighbors, family, and friends. These shared moments span the spectrum of human emotion, from joyous celebrations to somber commiserations. Homebrewing is a deeply personal, visceral, and fundamentally human pursuit. As brewers, fermenters, and occasionally even home distillers, we actively nurture and expand the foundational roots of who engages in brewing and the myriad ways in which these beverages are enjoyed.
For many years, I have proudly worn a hose clamp as a ring on my right hand, a deliberate and visible declaration of my identity: "I am a homebrewer." This simple adornment symbolizes a profound connection to the world of beer, mead, and cider. We, as homebrewers, represent a segment of the most loyal fans and ardent advocates for these beverages. We serve as a direct conduit for innovation and education, bridging the gap between the passionate amateur and the evolving craft industry. Throughout this journey, the AHA has consistently been an indispensable partner. It stands as the most authoritative, one-stop resource, providing an unparalleled array of compelling reasons, meticulously crafted recipes, essential resources, and rewarding opportunities for homebrewers at every level of experience.
Cultivating a Thriving Community: The AHA’s Vision
Today, we stand at a crucial juncture, presented with the opportunity to cultivate a more informed, passionate, and innovative community. This vision is realized one brew day at a time, one issue of Zymurgy magazine at a time, one recipe published on HomebrewersAssociation.org at a time, and one member, sponsor, advertiser, and donor to the AHA’s new A-Ha Foundation at a time. I am profoundly honored and deeply appreciative to be able to contribute to and advance the cause of homebrewing and the national association alongside each and every one of you.
Our collective goal is to ensure that this remarkable endeavor continues to flourish for generations to come. The fundamental truth is this: when we elevate homebrewing, we simultaneously elevate the quality and appreciation of beer and, by extension, ourselves. Embedded within the very DNA of this extraordinary community are all the homebrewers who have been members throughout its history, myself included. The gift and the joy derived from this shared passion are immeasurable.
The American Homebrewers Association’s enduring vision is clear and ambitious: "A homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community." This aspirational goal underscores the AHA’s commitment to fostering widespread accessibility and engagement with the art and science of homebrewing, ensuring its continued growth and cultural significance.
Julia Herz is the Executive Director of the American Homebrewers Association. Her extensive qualifications include being an Advanced Cicerone®, a Certified BJCP Judge, and a Certified Association Executive (CAE). She is also a published author and an accomplished homebrewer. Her personal homebrewing journey and insights can be followed on Instagram at @ImmaculateFermentation.
