A Vienna lager has been voted Bendigo’s best home brew.About a hundred beer lovers turned out at Goldmines Hotel on Saturday to judge the finest in homemade hops.The competition was run by local ale promoters Bendigo Beer, with special guest judge The Age beer writer James Smith.Organiser Justin McPhail said the winning brew – made by Pete Martin – was “well balanced”.“It was really nice, a little bit spicy and nice and dry,” Mr McPhail said.“It was clear, like you want a good lager to be; it had good head retention; and it was easy to drink, which is really what you want.”The winner of the people’s choice award was Sam Brennan for his ginger beer with chilli.And Mr McPhail won a prize of his own – the most “out there” beer for his feijoa (a small green fruit) ale, although “it wasn’t rigged” he promised.Mr McPhail said the event had been a big success.“Everyone was just enjoying the beautiful weather,” he said.“The quality of beers was really good and people enjoyed the fact they could talk to the brewers and ask them questions.”Bendigo Beer is planning to host more events over the summer. Those interested can visit the website, www.bendigobeer.com and join the group’s mailing list.