By James Atkinson
The UK's premier beer education body, Beer Academy, was launched in Sydney on Monday at the Lord Nelson Hotel.
Founded by beer enthusiasts to help drinkers develop a sophisticated understanding of the diversity of beer, Beer Academy has taught more than 10,000 people in the UK, as well as being a key part of beer festivals and food shows.
The Beer Academy has appointed local beer experts Brewtique to manage its courses in Australia. At Monday's launch, themed 'Beers of the World', presenter Neal Cameron, also of the Australian Hotel and Brewery led an educational session featuring a tasting of six classic beer styles matched with canapés. [continues below]
Beer Academy launch, Lord Nelson Hotel, Sydney
Beer Academy's Australian courses range in depth, starting with a 90-minute tasting session that develops a basic understanding of different beer styles and how to taste them.
Beer enthusiasts can continue through courses including Making Beer and Food Dance, How To Judge Beer, and multi-day courses like Advanced Beer Tasting. The Beer Academy also offers the ultimate beer qualification: Beer Sommelier, which can only be achieved through extensive training, hands-on trade experience, and intensive one-on-one practical exams.
Brewtique managing director Mike Spencer said that with microbreweries and major brewers creating beer styles that haven't been seen in Australia before, there is a thirst for knowledge about beer.
Booking enquiries can be made via the Beer Academy website .