WSET in Beer vs. Cicerone Certification Program: what are the differences ?

The WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust), a global leader in training for wine, spirits, and sake, has recently expanded its offerings with dedicated beer courses. If you are already familiar with the world of beer, you have probably heard of the Cicerone certification.

So, what are the main differences between the Cicerone and WSET beer certifications?

Cicerone Certification

Established in 2007 in Chicago, the Cicerone certification quickly became a global benchmark for beer professionals. Other certifications, such as the IBD Beer Sommelier or the Doemens Biersommelier, exist, but they are generally recognized more regionally.

Le programme Cicerone est conçu pour former et certifier les professionnels de la bière travaillant dans les secteurs de la brasserie, de la restauration et de l’hôtellerie. Pour prétendre au titre de Cicerone, il faut réussir au minimum l’examen de Certified Cicerone® ou un niveau supérieur. Le premier niveau, Certified Beer Server, atteste de connaissances de base solides. Seuls ceux qui réussissent les tests de connaissances et de dégustation peuvent obtenir le titre de Cicerone.

The Cicerone program is designed to train and certify beer professionals working in the brewing, restaurant, and hospitality sectors who already have significant experience. To qualify for the title of Cicerone, one must pass at least the Certified Cicerone® exam or a higher level certification. The first level, Certified Beer Server, attests to solid basic knowledge. Only those who pass the mandatory knowledge and tasting tests can earn the title of Cicerone.

The Cicerone certification offers four levels: Certified Beer Server, Certified Cicerone, Advanced Cicerone, and Master Cicerone. Preparation for the exams relies primarily on self-study, using recommended resources. The topics covered include, depending on the level, beer storage and service, different beer styles, flavor analysis, ingredients, brewing processes, and beer-food pairings.

WSET Beer Courses

The WSET, with its proven expertise in teaching wine, spirits, and sake, now offers beer courses that provide several advantages:

1. A Unique Teaching Approach: The WSET in Beer stands out with a teaching method focused on developing tasting skills. Using the “Systematic Approach to Tasting®”, learners acquire a universal language to describe beer flavors and a framework to evaluate its quality.
2. Rich and Varied Educational Content: Level 1 courses cover over 20 beer styles, while Level 2 covers more than 60. Although topics such as beer service, storage, and beer-food pairings are addressed, the main focus is on understanding key ingredients and production choices that influence beer style.
3. Varied Learning Formats: Courses are available both in-person and online, using an interactive learning style suitable for all learner levels. WiSP offers WSET Level 1 in Beer via e-learning and WSET Level 2 in e-learning or in-person 
4. High Flexibility: WSET beer courses are designed to meet the needs of both industry professionals and beer enthusiasts. Learners can start directly at Level 1 or Level 2 based on their knowledge and confidence levels.
5. High-Quality Educational Materials: Upon enrollment, learners receive course materials to prepare in advance and maximize their chances of passing the exam
6. Access to a Global Network: The WSET has a global network, with a unified program applied worldwide. All instructors are selected for their beer expertise and have been rigorously trained to deliver the courses.
7. Rigorous Evaluation: Level 1 and Level 2 exams consist of multiple-choice questionnaires, with strict supervision to ensure the rigor of the process and the seriousness of the certification.

Conclusion

While the Cicerone and WSET beer courses share common goals, they differ in their teaching approach and the skills they develop. Cicerone certifications are particularly suited for those who wish to deepen their knowledge in the brewing industry and gain recognition as beer professionals. In contrast, WSET courses offer a more comprehensive approach to beer, focusing on tasting and understanding styles, with international recognition. The choice between these two types of training depends on personal objectives, the desired career path, and the level of expertise one wishes to achieve in the beer world.

Learn more about WSET Beer Courses at WiSP and enroll now to become a beer tasting expert! WSET Beer Courses