SIBA has announced a new partnership with the Guild of Beer Sommeliers to further improve the standard of judging at their Indie Beer Awards.
Comprising nine regional competitions and a national final, Indie Beer Awards judges examine a broad range of beer styles in three separate competitions — cask, keg, and bottle and can.
“Becoming a beer sommelier is a difficult and incredibly in-depth process, and as such those who achieve the qualification are recognised as some of the most experienced and knowledgeable beer tasters in the world,” said Neil Walker, of SIBA.
Paul Nunny, chair of the The Guild of Beer Sommeliers, added: “Our goal is to support the beer industry through education, advocacy, and promotion of industry initiatives, such as the Indie Beer Awards.
“Judging beer is a skill which beer sommeliers are uniquely positioned to add authority and the Indie Beer Awards are vital in highlighting the very best beers from across the UK.”
Administered by Cask Marque, The Guild of Beer Sommeliers is a not-for-profit membership organisation formed in 2024 with a grant from the Brewers Research and Education Fund. It currently has more than 200 members.
