Behind the Scenes on the 2026 National Homebrew Competition

February 18, 2026

AHA’s National Homebrew Competition is the world’s largest, longest running and most competitive beer, mead and cider competition. 2026 will be NHC’s 47th year and it is comprised of 11 different events: 9 First Round judging locations, Final Round judging, and the Awards Ceremony on June 20 during Homebrew Con in Asheville, NC.  Hang with Charlie Harr and Jen Pereira, the NHC Competition Chairs, with AHA Vice Chair and moderator, Drew Beechum, as we dig into what it’s like to run the NHC, what’s new for 2026, and how to enter for a chance to win and have Charlie and Jen announce your name on the main stage in Asheville.

Event Details

  • Date: February 18, 2026
  • Time: 5:30 PM MT - 6:30 PM MT

This is a member exclusive event. To register for this event please Log in or Join.

About the Speakers

Charlie Harr

Charlie Harr, National Homebrew Competition Chair

GRiST

Charlie Harr is an experienced competition organizer and passionate homebrewer with seven years managing large-scale beer competitions and multiple years of comprehensive event planning. As a National Homebrew Competition entrant who understands the excitement and dedication competitors bring to their craft, he is committed to executing an exceptional 2026 NHC while enhancing the value the American Homebrewers Association delivers to its members.

Jen Pereira

Jen Pereira, National Homebrew Competition Deputy Chair

Jen Pereira has 30 years in the beverage industry, including 22 years teaching, and 15 years of judging and competition organization. She has won dozens or awards and medals and has advanced certifications in beer judging, wine, spirits, cider, mead and more. She continues to judge at competitions of all types across the country and internationally and is the organizer for both the Rhode Worthy Cup and the Ocean State Homebrew Competition.

Drew Beechum

Drew Beechum

Maltose Falcons

Drew Beechum has been a part of the AHA since 2001, starting by helping organize the Los Angeles Homebrew Conference with his club, The Maltose Falcons. He has written for Zymurgy®️ and other beer publications, served as a club officer for 25 years, and spent nearly a decade on the AHA Governing Committee. Drew is the author of seven books on home fermentation and hosts the podcast Experimental Brewing. In 2023, he received the AHA Governing Committee Recognition Award. He lives in Pasadena, CA, with his wife and a small pack of dogs and cats, and currently serves on the AHA Founding Board