SoDel Concepts holds certified beer server training for employees

SoDel Concepts, a hospitality group with 10 restaurants, recently held its first class for employees interested in becoming certified beer servers.

“We used study guides provided by the Cicerone Certification Program, which is the gold standard for beer training, and additional materials that I compiled,” said Matt Patton, director of SoDel Concepts’ beer program, one of only seven certified cicerones in Delaware and an avid home brewer. “The class covered the proper way to pour and serve beer. We also talked about a wide variety of beer styles and flavors so that our team can help guests choose from the many beers that we offer. The training included an extensive beer tasting to develop firsthand experience with the styles.”

The two-day training featured a six-part curriculum including education on the Cicerone Certification Program; proper storage and serving of beer; styles, flavors and tasting; ingredients; and pairing beer and food. The class finished with an extensive session where participants tasted, took notes, and discussed 20 different, distinct styles of beer.

With the training under their belts, the participants were qualified to take the Level 1 Certified Beer Server exam. Of the 45 people signed up for training, 25 have taken and passed the test to become certified.

SoDel Concepts also has employees who are taking exams to become certified sommeliers, said Scott Kammerer, president of SoDel Concepts. “We are continually investing in our team not only to help them advance in the hospitality industry but also to improve the guest experience,” he said.