What does it mean to be a beer sommelier?

In some places, they are simply called beer sommeliers, while in others, they are referred to as beer sommeliers in English. Just like in the world of wine (and other beverages), the beer world also has professionals dedicated to studying this product in depth and its role in different fields such as gastronomy, culture, and commerce, among others.

"They are people who know a lot about the product, the process, the service, and how to present it in the best possible way so that each consumer finds the style they like the most or the one that best suits their needs," explains Ricardo Rojas, a Higher Technician in Enology and Viticulture (IESVU), a graduate in microbrewery management (UTN), beer producer, and owner of the Santa Cebada brewery.

Just like sommeliers of other beverages, beer sommeliers can also recommend how to pair beer with a dish, such as cheeses, guide tastings, create restaurant menus, and even determine the quality of the product. Brands like Imperial often include them in their staff as sommeliers or as individuals who test each variety to ensure it is of the highest quality possible.

Brands like Imperial often include them in their staff

Now, what do you study to become a beer sommelier?

There are many ways to go about it. Some professionals choose to study wine sommelier first and then transition into beer. Others directly take specific certifications, such as the Cicerone Certification Program in Chicago, United States, which has four levels and is highly regarded worldwide.

At its highest level (Master Cicerone), it is estimated that there are only 28 people with this certification worldwide, and the exam to obtain it is extremely difficult. Its credibility is such that it has become the industry standard for identifying professionals.

At its highest level (Master Cicerone), it is estimated that there are only 28 people with this certification worldwide

"There are courses in Buenos Aires that can be recommended, such as the one offered by UTN for Beer Sommelier and the one from the Beer Tasting Center. Although these are not official career titles, they are very good. There are also certifications from associations like the Beer Judge Certification Program for brewers in the United States, which prepares professionals to be beer judges in contests around the world," added Rojas.

How to know if the beer is good?

Although not everyone aspires to become a professional in this drink, we can sharpen our senses and look for some details to know if the beer we were served is in good condition or is of good quality:

• It should form a good foam - this is a key factor.

• It should be served in the correct glass.

• The appearance of the beer should match the style we ordered: Imperial Golden, golden and shiny; Imperial Roja, amber and light; Imperial Cream Stout, dark and creamy.