Ryan Perry, AKA Crafty Beer Boy, has become the latest candidate to successfully complete the Guild of Beer Sommeliers exam and gain accreditation.
Ryan Perry (left) with Alex Barlow, chief examiner for the Guild of Beer Sommeliers
For the senior communication manager from Bournemouth, becoming a beer sommelier has been the culmination of a journey that began as a hobby several years ago.
“I truly believe there is a beer out there for everyone,” said Perry. “My mission is to help people discover it, pair it with the perfect food, and leave with a smile.
“Achieving my beer sommelier certification has turned that dream into a reality, giving me the knowledge and confidence to inspire more people to explore the incredible world of beer.”
The beer sommelier accreditation recognises advanced expertise in beer styles, brewing processes, sensory evaluation, food pairings, and beer service.
“Although I don’t work in the brewing industry, beer has become a huge part of my everyday life over the past two and a half years,” said Perry. “From dragging my family around breweries and taprooms at weekends and on holidays, to my wife and son filming my latest beer reviews, they’ve been there every step of the journey.
“My wife, Shelley, has been my brew partner, helping to serve food and beer at my pairing workshops, and being my toughest critic when it comes to my beer writing. This achievement is as much theirs as it is mine because they’ve supported my passion from the very beginning.”
Alex Barlow, chief examiner for the Guild of Beer Sommeliers, said: “Achieving beer sommelier certification requires both passion and discipline. We congratulate our newest beer sommelier on this accomplishment and look forward to the expertise and value he will bring to the beer sector and local community.
“Passing the examination reflects a significant commitment to professional development and excellence in beer appreciation.”
Looking ahead, Perry hopes his accreditation will help him combine his communications expertise with his passion for beer. “My ultimate goal is to work in the industry that has brought me so much joy over the past several years — brewing. By combining my experience in communications and PR with my passion for beer, I’d love to work with inspiring beer brands, helping tell their stories, educate consumers, and encourage more people to discover and enjoy great beer.”
