There are two beer credentials that are the most widely recognized: the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) and the Certified Cicerone Program.
The article from Forbes, published on March 13, 2025, profiles Gordon Strong, recognized as America's most qualified beer judge. Strong has earned this title through his extensive involvement in the beer judging community, notably as the president of the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) for over a decade. His expertise spans multiple beer styles, evidenced by his record-breaking number of BJCP certifications, including the prestigious Grand Master rank. The piece details his journey from a homebrewer to a globally respected figure in the craft beer scene, highlighting his contributions to the standardization of beer judging criteria, his authorship of influential books on beer styles, and his role in international beer competitions. Strong's dedication to education and the promotion of beer culture has not only elevated his status but also significantly influenced the craft beer industry's growth and appreciation worldwide.
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