Meet the six new Master Cicerones, joining 22 others worldwide

The Cicerone Certification Program recently announced that six individuals — Craig Thomas, David Reese, Federico Lantschner, Jen Blair, Patrick Combs, and Shelley Smith — have earned the title of Master Cicerone, joining a group of only 22 other individuals worldwide to earn the title. Candidates earned the certification after completing two days of intense written and oral exams, testing knowledge of beer styles, draft systems, beer evaluation, brewing technology, and beer and food pairings.

“This year’s group of candidates was nothing short of outstanding, and we couldn’t be happier for the six who passed. We are thrilled for each of them to represent the Master Cicerone title,” said Chris Pisney, Program Director of the Cicerone Certification Program.

Master Cicerone is the fourth and highest level of the Cicerone Certification Program. It recognizes an exceptional understanding of brewing, beer, and pairing — combining outstanding tasting abilities with an encyclopedic knowledge of commercial beers. The Master Cicerone exam challenges individuals to master every technical and aesthetic aspect of beer. Candidates must converse with professional brewers and chefs as a peer, demonstrate the tasting ability of a seasoned quality control panel member, and speak with consumers using easy-to-understand but vividly descriptive language. Those who possess these skills serve the industry as consultants, educators, and knowledge leaders in various organizations.

Launched in 2008 by brewer, author, and beer educator Ray Daniels, the Cicerone Certification Program seeks to ensure that consumers receive the best quality beer at every service occasion. To facilitate this, those who sell and serve beer are encouraged to acquire knowledge in five areas: 1) Keeping and Serving Beer, 2) Beer Styles, 3) Beer Flavor and Evaluation, 4) Beer Ingredients and Brewing Processes, and 5) Pairing Beer with Food.

The Cicerone Certification Program certifies beer professionals at four levels:

1. Certified Beer Server
2. Certified Cicerone
3. Advanced Cicerone
4. Master Cicerone

To date, more than 100,000 individuals worldwide have been certified through the program. For more information on what is a Cicerone, visit: http://cicerone.org/about