What is a Cicerone?
The textbook response – It is a program that certifies and educates beer professionals in order to elevate the beer experience for customers.
The real world response – Beer Sommelier, it is a set of certificates that covers everything from the ingredients and process to storing, serving and the pairing of beer with food.
Why am I doing it?
When I started this blog, I took up brewing to better understand beer. The more I brew, the more I read, the more I get out there, I have realized there is more than just brewing and drinking. There is an art form to storage, serving, food pairing and that’s just to name a few. To better provide insight and because I have an affinity for knowledge I feel like this was the logical next step in my beer journey.
What happens next?
The first step in the Cicerone certification process is to become a Certified Beer Server. It is essentially Beer 101, to become certified you must successfully pass (75%) a 60 question multiple choice exam that covers beer styles, beer storage/serving, ingredients along with beer flavor and evaluation.
My goal is to take the exam next month.
The more ambitious goal is take take the Cicerone Exam in October 2017 (more on what that entails next time).
Anyone else out there doing the same thing this year?
If so drop me a line and let’s set up a study group.
Hard 12 Brews 
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