Wed Jul 05, 2006 7:13 am
The real benefit of these kinds of tests is to validate your processes and ingredient sources. In otherwords, if you have a set-up and consistently brew, what is going on that creates your own "house" character, good or bad? The most useful infor comes when you send in a range of beers and can see trends in the results. Of the tests listed, at least 6 are easily done at home because they are more tactile than technical.
If your process is both consistent and well documented, then these kinds of tests will help you hone your beers to phenominal quality. Perfect for competition, but not necessary to just enjoy. If you are not well documented, then it is a little hard to put these results to solid practical use.
It's just my opinion, but before you make that commitment you should ask yourself how a lab test will change your ingredients (or source), techniques or beers. Knowing the specs doesn't change the need for good technique, sanitation or quality ingredients.
Kev.