Light amber to black depending on the underlying style
Clarity:
Clear to hazy beer is acceptable.
Perceived Malt Aroma and Flavor:
Medium-low to medium-high malt sweetness balanced with cocoa flavors and aromas
Perceived Hop Aroma and Flavor:
Hop aroma is not perceived to be very low. Hop flavor may be lower than is designated for the underlying style allowing chocolate to contribute to the flavor profile without becoming excessively bitter.
Fermentation Characteristics:
Typical of underlying beer style. Attributes derived from chocolate or cocoa should be apparent in all such beers, ranging from subtle to intense, and in harmony with the overall flavor profile of the beer.
Body:
Varies with underlying style
Additional Notes:
Chocolate Beers are any beers incorporating dark chocolate or cocoa in any form. Beers made with white chocolate do not typify this category. When using these guidelines as the basis for evaluating entries at competitions, brewers may be asked to provide supplemental information about entries in this category to allow for an accurate evaluation of diverse entries. Such information might include the underlying beer style upon which the entry is based, or other information unique to the entry such as type or form of chocolate used or other factors which influence perceived sensory outcomes.