Disclaimer: The information on our website is provided for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information contained on our website for any purpose. Any reliance on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk and we are not liable for any damages or losses arising out of or resulting from your reliance on any information contained on our website.
A brewmaster works to produce the best quality beer and must also consider the marketability of the beer as well. They are skilled at the entire brew process and are business savvy at the same time. Though they perform hands-on work brewing beer, they also supervise other brewers on staff and provide mentorship to less experienced brewers. Many brewmasters are also collaborative and would work with their team to create a new beer recipe and may even collaborate with another brewery, winery, or distillery to create a unique beer. Watch a video to see a day in the life of a brewer.
How to Become a Brewmaster
Many brewmasters start out as a home brewer where they gain experience with the beer-making process, ingredients needed, sanitization, and judging their final product. Some home brewers realize they have such a passion to brew beer that they start their journey to become a professional brewmaster. Though it is not a requirement to have a formal education, there is a lot of science to brewing beer so there are brewmaster certifications, bachelor’s, and master’s programs offered by organizations and universities.
When researching programs, it can be very helpful to look for a program that would offer you an internship so that you can show on-the-job experience to a future brewery. Many brewery’s that distribute their beer on a professional level hire those with this type of education and do like to see experience. You can also check out the Beer Association’s interview (link opens in a new tab) with head brewer Charlie Hoxmeier at Gilded Goat Brewing Company in Fort Collins, Colorado. Charlie explains how he went from a public health scientist to a brewer.
Job Description of a Brewmaster
A brewmaster is responsible to test and create new beer recipes to produce a marketable beer for a brewery. This means, they are highly knowledgable in every aspect of the brewing process and systematically work to improve the beer’s taste during each step of the process. Since beer takes some time to ferment, it is also vital they follow strict sanitization processes so that bacteria does not infiltrate and grow into the final product.
A brewmaster would also mentor and supervise other brewers at a facility and provide the quality control necessary to ensure a good product is being delivered. This would also include ensuring quality ingredients are purchased and stocked. They are also business savvy. Since they know the work and ingredients that go into each beer produced at their brewery, they may also recommend price points for a beer to ensure a profit is made.
In addition to supervising staff, they may also interact with vendors or the public. For instance, they may educate beer sales representatives, give brewery tours, and work with suppliers. Most importantly though, a master brewer should have a true passion for brewing beer.
Benefits of being a Brewmaster
The job outlook for skilled brewmasters is bright due to the high demand for good beer. As they gain experience, their income potential grows, especially in cities. Experienced brewmasters even have the opportunity to start their own businesses. Many in this profession express high job satisfaction, taking pride in producing clean, delicious, and consistently great beer. Brewmasters also enjoy a good work-life balance with flexible schedules. While larger breweries may offer company benefits, these perks can vary depending on the specific brewery. Being a skilled brewmaster carries a certain level of prestige that many find rewarding.
In conclusion, becoming a brewmaster typically starts with a passion for home brewing. In fact, while brewing at home you can gain experience in the beer-making process, ingredients, and quality control. While formal education isn’t mandatory, there are brewmaster certifications and academic programs available. Though the education isn’t necessary, it can help you land a job. If attending a program, it can be helpful to look for those offering internships to gain experience.
Brewmasters play a crucial role in creating and improving beer recipes, ensuring quality, and overseeing brewery operations. This career offers job security, income growth, potential for entrepreneurship, job satisfaction, and flexible schedules, with benefits varying by brewery. Brewmasters take pride in producing high-quality beer and enjoy a respected status in the industry. If you want to learn more, Wageningen University offers a free The Science of Beer course on EdX.org. Also, there is an option to pay a small fee to receive a verified certificate upon completion.
