Get yourself some beer education

When I saw this press release come through, I knew the L.A. Beer Scene needed to see it and ASAP. Including myself, who will probably be there learning as much as I can too!

Certified Cicerone ® Launches LA’s First Certified Beer Server Class

“The three part class begins on Wednesday April 11th at 7 PM, and is continued for the next two consecutive Wednesday evenings. I am running this class for the introductory cost of merely $50 for three 1.5 hour sessions which will each include a tasting flight of my choosing, as well as a pint from El Segundo’s tap room. (Book and Testing Fees not included).

The class is structured around Randy Mosher’s book Tasting Beer, which I have found to be the best one resource for the exam. I recommend buying the book and reading through beforehand to obtain as much knowledge as possible, though it is not absolutely necessary. The first class focuses on history and the brewing process. In the second class we cover how to evaluate beer, as well as how to serve and pair with food. And in the third class we cover the great wide world of styles. At the end of each
class we will taste a flight of beers, each flight designed to teach you about certain styles and processes.

Once you have completed the course, the exam can be taken online for a cost of $69. It is a 60 question, multiple choice exam that must be taken in 20 minutes and has a passing grade of 75%. I will hold a follow up class for anyone who fails to pass on their first take. There is one free retake.

More info on the program is available at http://www.cicerone.org.
For more information on the class, or to sign up email: Thomas Kelley ciceronetom@gmail.com.

I hope to bring further beer education to Greater Los Angeles with this class. The more educated people are, the more passionate they become. And.. the more passionate craft beer drinkers there are in the world, the better. I have been certified for close to 2 years now, and continue to be a big advocate for the program. The Certified Beer Server certification is a great entry into the growing world of craft beer, and also a great door opener for anyone who is looking to break in to the industry.

**Free Hop Class**
Additionally, I will be holding my first hop class at Rockefeller in Hermosa Beach on March 26th from 5-7 PM. This will be a free preview for any of you whom are wondering if I actually know what I am talking about *wink*. We will be pouring White Dog IPA, and Blue House Citra Pale. I will be talking about our use of hops, and how it relates to traditional uses through the ages, as well as history, taxes, and the current market forces that bear down on breweries. As well as drinking some fabulous HOP BOMBS!