Jeremy Phillips brings Cicerone certification and draft beer system to the Whaling Station.

Beer has long been labeled the humble drink of the people, a basic brew for everyday sipping. We’re now recognizing beers carry complex flavor profiles that open up myriad pairing possibilities with food, just like wine does.

In the world of wine, certified sommeliers wax poetic about the taste and terroir of wines. The Cicerone Certification Program now seeks to similarly elevate beer service by certifying beer professionals. Jeremy Phillips – general manager for the Beach House in Pacific Grove – has completed the first of four steps for certification. As a Cicerone Certified Beer Server, he’s an expert.

Look for the fruits of Phillips’ certification with a new draft beer program at the Beach House’s sister steakhouse, the Whaling Station. Here, Phillips has curated the first three draft beer selections: Anderson Valley Brewing Company’s Blood Orange Gose, Firestone Walker’s PIVO Hoppy Pils and Wookus Imperial Black IPA.

WHALING STATION 763 Wave St., Monterey, 373-3778, whalingstation.net