The annual James Beard Foundation Awards semifinalists list is out. One of the award categories is titled “Outstanding Wine and Spirits Professional.” Four of the semifinalists, though, are respected craft brewers with long histories of excellence in promoting their beers, great craft beer, beer and food and helping to reshape the way chefs look at beer. Here are Brewers Association members on the list:
- Larry Bell, Bell’s Brewery, Inc.
- Sam Calagione, Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
- Jim Koch, Boston Beer Co.
- Garrett Oliver, The Brooklyn Brewery
Methinks it is time to rename the award the “Outstanding Beer, Wine and Spirits Professional.” Finalists will be announce March 22 in New Orleans. Winners will be named May 3 in New York City. Best wishes to all the semifinalists.
–Paul Gatza