Although hundreds of people have attempted to earn the coveted title, there are only 18 in world who can call themselves Master Cicerones. The beer-centric counterpart to a Master Sommelier, a Master Cicerone knows virtually everything there is to know about tasting, preparing, serving, and pairing more than 100 styles of beer from all over the globe.
The only way to earn the title is a brutal two-day exam that takes place once a year. To survive the 20-hour endurance match takes nerves of steel and a more finely honed palate than chefs in most Michelin-starred kitchens could claim.
Beers of Joy, a documentary now available on multiple streaming platforms including iTunes, Amazon, Comcast, Spectrum, and Cox, follows the trials and tribulations of two Advanced Cicerones as they prepare to take the Master Cicerone exam. The film also delves into the extraordinary history and culture of beer through the eyes of a celebrated brewer and a chef.
Enjoy the rest of the article on October at the link.
Joe Vogelbacher details his experience pursuing Master Cicerone in Beers of Joy in the new article from October.