There’s exciting news from the Dorset Food & Drink community as Bournemouth-based beer enthusiast, communicator and champion of great local beer, Ryan Perry (AKA Crafty Beer Boy), has officially achieved the prestigious title of Beer Sommelier.
Having successfully passed the rigorous Guild of Beer Sommeliers examination, Ryan joins an elite group of accredited beer experts recognised for their advanced knowledge of beer styles, flavour, brewing, sensory analysis and food pairing.
But what exactly is a Beer Sommelier?
A Beer Sommelier has a deep understanding of how beer is brewed, how different styles taste, how to identify flavours and faults, and perhaps most importantly, how to match the perfect beer with the perfect food. It’s part scientist, part storyteller and part flavour detective.
For Ryan, the achievement marks the culmination of a journey that began as a hobby and grew into a passion. “I truly believe there is a beer out there for everyone. My mission is to help people discover it, pair it with the perfect food and leave with a smile.”
That passion has seen Ryan spend the last two and a half years exploring breweries, taprooms and beer styles from across the UK and beyond, sharing reviews, hosting tastings and encouraging people to discover the incredible diversity of modern beer.
Passing the Beer Sommelier assessment was no small feat. Candidates are required to demonstrate detailed knowledge of beer styles, brewing processes, flavour identification, food pairing and professional beer service, alongside completing specialist training courses and beer qualifications.
Ryan’s impressive list of credentials now includes:
Beer Sommelier (Guild of Beer Sommeliers) WSET Level 1 & Level 2 Award in Beer (with Distinction) Beer & Food Pairing Certification Judging Beer Certification Understanding Off Flavours Certification Cask Marque Cellar Management Certificate
While Ryan may not work directly within the brewing industry (yet!), he hopes this achievement will help combine his communications expertise with his love of beer and the stories behind it.
“My ultimate goal is to work in the industry that has brought me so much joy over the past several years… brewing. I’d love to help beer brands tell their stories, educate consumers and encourage more people to discover and enjoy great beer.”
At Dorset Food & Drink, we’re incredibly proud to have passionate ambassadors like Ryan championing local producers and helping people discover the rich food and drink culture we have here in Dorset.
And if you’ve ever wondered whether beer can be paired with great local food in the same way as wine, Ryan will almost certainly tell you the answer is a resounding yes!
Congratulations Ryan, from everyone at Dorset Food & Drink. We’re raising a glass to your fantastic achievement. 
Find out more about Ryan’s beer adventures:
https://www.craftybeerboy.com/
Instagram: @crafty.beer.boy
TikTok: @craftybeerboy
Cheers to the newest Beer Sommelier in the Dorset Food & Drink community! 
