PHILLIPSBURG, NJ — Hunterdon Distributors is pleased to announce that seven additional members of their staff have earned the highly-regarded distinction of Certified Cicerone.
Those employees include Sales Representatives Raymond Burow, Drew Sewall, Aaron Kahn, Ryan Staats, Office Manager Michael Sales, Spirits Manager Jeremiah Goldovitz and Communications Director Nancy Maddaloni. There are now twelve Certified Cicerones on staff at Hunterdon; five employees, including Co-Founder Dave Masterson, earned the distinction in 2011.
Created in 2008 by Ray Daniels, the Cicerone program recognizes beer professionals that possess an exceptional level of knowledge and expertise in all facets of the industry. The program consists of three levels: Certified Beer Server, Certified Cicerone and Master Cicerone. To date, there are approximately four hundred Certified Cicerones nationwide. That number is steadily growing as retailers and distributors across the country are recognizing the need for a well-educated and informed sales force.
Obtaining the Certified Cicerone distinction requires passing an intense four-hour exam that includes a written test, a hands-on demonstration and a tasting evaluation section. Individuals must display extensive knowledge in five categories: Beer Styles, Keeping and Serving Beer, Flavor Evaluation, Ingredients & the Brewing Process and Beer & Food Pairing.
As the leading craft beer distributor in the state, Hunterdon takes great pride in the high-level of beer appreciation and knowledge amongst its staff. The company continually strives to keep its retailers informed regarding proper serving techniques and correct storage procedures to ensure the freshest product possible is delivered to the consumer each and every time. The entire Hunterdon sales team completed the first step in the Cicerone program, the Certified Beer Server Exam, and the company hopes to have the remaining members of its sales team go on to achieve Certified Cicerone status by the end of 2012.
About Hunterdon Distributors:
Hunterdon was founded in 1996 and has grown steadily over the years into a company with sixty-five full-time employees. Hunterdon has raised the bar for craft beverage availability and selection in the state by providing the most diverse and sought-after portfolio the market has to offer. The company currently represents over sixty domestic craft brands, hundreds of imports and a unique line of micro-distilled spirits, sakes, ciders and meads. Owners Mike Short and Dave Masterson continue to focus on bringing quality products to the New Jersey consumer.