FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can anyone call themselves a cicerone?
No, they can not. The Craft Beer Institute holds registered trademarks on the use of the word "cicerone." Please see our "Titles, Trademarks and Proper Use" page for more information.
What is the origin of the word “Cicerone”?
Cicerone is an English word referring to "one who conducts visitors and sightseers to museums and explains matters of archaeological, antiquarian, historic or artistic interest." A Certified, Advanced, or Master Cicerone possesses the knowledge and skills to guide those interested in beer culture, including its historic and artistic aspects. These titles now designate a person with demonstrated expertise in beer who can guide consumers to enjoyable and high-quality experiences with great beer.
How is a Cicerone different from a Beer Sommelier?
While many beer sommeliers have received excellent training, the content of each program differs. Furthermore, anyone can use the title "beer sommelier" — even if they know very little about beer! The Cicerone exams provide well-known and respected benchmarks for assigning beer expertise. Since the Cicerone titles hold trademark status in the US, Canada, Europe, and other parts of the world, only those individuals who have passed these exams can use those titles. To ensure the validity of a Cicerone title for any individual, in any country, check the online certification directory at cicerone.org.