10 April 2025, London – Toronto-based beer educator Mirella Amato has made beer history by becoming the first person ever — and the only woman — to hold both a BJCP Grand Master title and Master Cicerone® certification, the two most prestigious and demanding credentials in the world of beer.

This remarkable achievement makes Amato the most qualified beer judge in Canada, and one of just two people globally to have attained both distinctions.

Amato is the Senior Business Development Manager for Beer at WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust), and played a central role in the development of WSET’s recently launched Level 1 and Level 2 Awards in Beer.

Reflecting on her achievement, Amato said: “The goal for me, from the start, was to raise the median level of beer knowledge and appreciation so that more people can appreciate the many facets of this delicious beverage.”

In addition to being a Master Cicerone®, Amato is a certified Doemens Biersommelier (Germany), a Beer & Cider Academy Sommelier (UK), and the author of the award-winning book Beerology: Everything You Need to Know to Enjoy Beer. She has over 15 years of international experience in beer education, sensory training, and competition judging.

She continues to advocate for beer’s place at the table alongside wine and spirits — and for greater representation of women in the industry.

Amato will be in the US this spring speaking and judging at several high-profile events, including:

• World Beer Cup, Indianapolis (April 26–29)
• Craft Brewers Conference, Indianapolis (April 29–30)
• Crafted for Action, Atlanta (June 19–20)

More information about WSET’s beer qualifications can be found here.