Beverage Testing Institute

Beverage Testing Institute

The Beverage Testing Institute (BTI) is an independent organization that provides reviews and ratings for alcoholic beverages. Founded in 1981, BTI is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. The institute is known for its rigorous and impartial evaluation process, which includes blind tastings conducted by professional tasters.

History

The Beverage Testing Institute was established in 1981 by Craig Goldwyn, a prominent figure in the beverage industry. The institute was created to provide consumers with reliable and unbiased information about the quality of various alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, and spirits.

Evaluation Process

BTI's evaluation process is known for its strict adherence to blind tasting protocols. This means that the tasters do not know the identity of the beverages they are evaluating, ensuring that their judgments are based solely on the quality of the product. The institute uses a 100-point scale to rate beverages, with scores categorized as follows:

• 96-100: Superlative
• 90-95: Exceptional
• 85-89: Highly Recommended
• 80-84: Recommended
• 70-79: Acceptable
• Below 70: Not Recommended

Categories of Beverages

BTI evaluates a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including:

• Wine
• Beer
• Spirits
• Cider
• Sake

Publications and Awards

The Beverage Testing Institute publishes its reviews and ratings in various formats, including online databases and printed guides. The institute also organizes annual competitions and awards, such as the World Beer Championships, World Wine Championships, and World Spirits Championships.

Impact on the Industry

BTI's ratings and reviews are highly regarded in the beverage industry. Many producers use BTI's scores in their marketing materials to highlight the quality of their products. Retailers and consumers also rely on BTI's evaluations to make informed purchasing decisions.

Related Pages

• Wine
• Beer
• Spirits
• Cider
• Sake
• Alcoholic beverage
• Blind tasting