2.1 The procedures recommended in this guide can be used for the sensory evaluation of alcoholic beverages.

2.2 This guide provides practical suggestions to maximize panelist safety and to minimize the risks and liabilities of the person or corporation responsible for administering the sensory evaluation of alcoholic beverages.

2.3 This guide also provides practical suggestions when dealing with various government agencies that are involved in distributing alcoholic beverage test products.

2.4 This guide uses a research example (Appendix X1) to frame the safety and regulatory considerations when conducting sensory evaluations of alcoholic beverage products.

Note 1: See also Appendix X1 and STP 913 (3).

1.1 This guide provides guidelines specific to the sensory and consumer evaluation of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, coolers, cocktails, ready to drinks, liqueurs, hard ciders, and distilled spirits.

1.2 This guide addresses safety, legal, panel selection, sample preparation, test procedures, and code of conduct specific to alcoholic beverages.

1.3 This guide does not recommend a specific test method.

1.4 The guide does not purport to address all of the nuances of testing throughout the world. Different countries have different guidelines while some countries do not have their own guidelines. The definition of a standard drink (or unit of alcohol) also differs from country to country. This guide is generally focused on testing within the US (and to an extent Canada); and even within these regions, laws could change over time. This guide covers what is generally in place currently in these areas and is suggested for countries that generally have no guidelines of their own. It is the responsibility of the user to be aware of their local laws and regulations, corporate policies and procedures, and apply them as needed. Some useful resources are also cited in this guide (1, 2)2.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.