The Rules

Teams and Team Fee

Each team will need to designate a team lead (the registrant) who is responsible for registering their team (6 people max). The team lead must be a UC Davis staff member, and each team must have at least two members. ALL team members must be UC affiliates (including CAAA members). We're happy to extend that affiliation to other nearby UC campuses, but you must plan to attend the tasting event to remain eligible. The fees collected will be used to help cover the cost of the facility and supplies (e.g. tasting glasses).

Brewers can choose to enter up to two of the three categories(?).  Each category entry will have a fee of $55, which includes two tasting event tickets.  Additional tasting event tickets can be purchased for $20 each at the time of team registration, up to a maximum of 6 total team members.  For example, a team of six people could enter two styles and purchase two extra tasting event tickets for a total of $150.

Teams should register for the competition using the registration page

Style Guidelines

Style guides for this year's selected brew styles can be found on The Brews page. More information about how to submit your entries will be shared as the date of the event nears.

Best of Show

The judging panels will include BJCP certified judges and industry professionals. They will select a Best of Show winner from the two beer categories. Mead entries are not eligible for the Best of Show prize. 

Judges Choice Awards

There will be a first place prize awarded in each style. More information about how to submit your entries will be shared as the date of the event nears. Teams must be represented by at least two members at the tasting event in order to be eligible for an award. Tasting event fees apply.

People's Choice Awards

There will be one People's Choice winner this year. Each attendee at the final event will be given instructions on how to vote. Teams must be represented by at least two members at the tasting event in order to be eligible for the award. Tasting event fees apply.

Best Label Awards

There will be a People's Choice winner for the best label. Each attendee at the final event will be given instructions on how to vote. Teams must be represented by at least two members at the tasting event in order to be eligible for the award. Tasting event fees apply.

Deadline to Enter

July 31, 2026, or once 15 teams per style is reached, whichever comes first