Certified Beer Server

I'm happy to say that yesterday, I took my first step towards achieving a new goal. I became a Certified Beer Server with the Cicerone Certification Program.

For the benefit of myself and my business, I've recently felt the desire to further build my legitimacy in the craft beer world with some quantifiable accomplishments. I had been working to show off my beer chops with this blog (which is a fun and worthwhile experience), but I'm not sure that my expertise resonates enough by just calling myself a "Beer Geek" and writing about my own experiences. I want to challenge myself and show my true level of knowledge.

Recently, I was recognized for my brewing ability with a Grand Prize win in the Beer Dabbler home brew contest. I was proud and very thankful to have won such an event, especially after seeing my score and reading the judges' comments. This was definitely an accomplishment that counts towards my brewing knowledge.

Yesterday, the Certified Cicerone Program offered some deals in recognition of a great accomplishment: they had reached 10,000 Certified Beer Servers in their program. One of those deals was a big discount on the price of taking the Certified Beer Server Exam.

Some of you may be wondering, "What the heck is the Certified Cicerone Program?" If you go check out their website, you'll see that the program's goal is "to improve beer quality by certifying the knowledge and tasting skills of those who sell and serve beer." They have 3 levels of certification available, and you have to work through them in order. Certified Beer Server is the first step. To get certified, I had to take a 60 question online exam. I was nervous, but I passed with flying colors!

Now, the big next step will be to tackle the 2nd level: Certified Cicerone. This is the beer equivalent of a Sommelier in the wine world. It's not an easy accomplishment and I know it may be hard work, but if I can become certified, it will all be worth it.

Wish me luck!