In the expansive universe of craft beer, two distinguished credentials—the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) and the Cicerone Certification Program—emerge as titans, each celebrating unique expertise within the field of brewing and beer appreciation. The BJCP is primarily focused on brewing technicalities, while Cicerone champions service-oriented knowledge, creating a dual respect among beer aficionados and industry professionals alike. Enter Max Finnance, a celebrated figure in this magnetic world who has achieved the pinnacle of both realms: the Grand Master rank from the BJCP and the Master Cicerone distinction. Such accomplishments are not merely badges of honor; they epitomize years of dedication and passion for the craft.
Hailing from Ledyard, CT, Max Finnance embarked on a path less traveled. In January 2025, he received the Grand Master designation—the highest rank conferred by the BJCP. An astonishing feat when you consider that only 92 individuals have been honored with this status since the organization’s inception in 1985. Just a couple of years earlier, in June 2022, Finnance had already carved his name into the annals of beer history by becoming one of only 22 individuals globally to receive the Master Cicerone title, further solidifying his unique position among beer professionals.
Crafting a Renowned Career
Finnance’s journey into the fascinating world of beer began serendipitously. A college student, he took up bartending as a means to support his education, where he encountered passionate craft beer enthusiasts. This initial curiosity transformed into a profound obsession as he delved deeper into the complexities of beer brewing and tasting. Today, his expertise allows him to judge approximately 15 beer competitions yearly—including prestigious events like the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup, as well as esteemed regional competitions. Furthermore, his judging panels extend across borders, as he often accepts invitations to judge in countries like Mexico, Argentina, and Spain, thus fostering an international appreciation for beer.
Finnance conveys a rewarding philosophy regarding his work: “Becoming a beer judge has given me a more in-depth understanding of what is going on in the glass and the process of beer making.” It’s about more than just sipping and evaluating; it’s an immersive experience that cultivates knowledge, awareness, and appreciation for craftsmanship within every participant. Creating community through shared experiences is just as essential as the beer itself, a sentiment he passionately believes fuels the growth of the craft beer ecosystem.
A Symphony of Flavors
However, Finnance is quick to emphasize that he is just another beer lover with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. He humbly remarks, “Just because I have these qualifications doesn’t mean I’m special. I walk away from every judging table understanding beer better.” This mindset exemplifies his growth-focused attitude, echoing the journey of many craft beer enthusiasts who seek depth in their appreciation.
His experience has rekindled a heightened sense of observation and attention to detail—traits that extend into various facets of life. Finnance mentions, “After I became a beer judge, I found I’m more observant and pay more attention to details.” Such insights foster a nuanced understanding that transcends brewing, infusing richness into everyday experiences, whether they be culinary, professional, or recreational.
At the heart of his endeavors lies the desire to share knowledge and provide enlightenment to others. As an educator, Finnance convenes beer education seminars and curates food pairing experiences, striving to create those exhilarating “lightbulb” moments for his audience—those instances when individuals discover a depth to beer that transforms their palate. He comments, “The very best wines and spirits cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, but the very best beers might cost $15 per six-pack. Great beer lowers the barrier to entry for people wanting to learn about flavor.”
Encouraging Exploration
Finnance advocates for an open-minded approach to beer tasting, urging skeptics to lend themselves to the vast array of options available. “If you don’t think you like beer, keep an open mind. Keep trying new things,” he advises, likening it to the adventure of discovering a new band or hiking an unexplored trail. It’s a journey into the unexpected and the delightful. This adventurous spirit encapsulates the ethos surrounding craft beer—a continuously evolving narrative that encourages exploration and discovery.
His unwavering belief resonates: “I’m pretty confident there’s a beer for every person.” This optimism is infectious, pushing the boundaries of beer appreciation beyond mere consumption and into a realm of cultural celebration and connection, one crafted pour at a time.