The Hertford-based company hands out gongs for licensees who guarantee their customers the perfect pint.
Norman Lawrie, landlord of The Plough, in Flamstead End, Cheshunt, received the Master Cellarman’s Managed House Award, while Jill Ross and Tracey and Kevin Green of The Great Eastern Tavern in Hertford, won the Master Cellarman’s Tenanted Award.
The awards were judged on standards of beer supply storage and management and knowledge of the cask ales on offer. The first stage saw surprise cellar and bar audits carried out by the McMullen team, before each pub in the competition was visited by a mystery guest, who requested samples of the beers and tested staff on their knowledge.
Rigorous
The judges were looking for the pubs which ensured all equipment, including glasses, lines and pumps, was clean, hygienic and safe, as well as examining the conditions and temperature of the beer cellar, and the bar area.
Fergus McMullen, production and sales director at McMullen said: “It’s important to us at McMullen that the hard work of those who run our pubs is recognised, which is why we’re very proud to celebrate the Master Cellarman awards.
“We’re now looking ahead to the next Master Cellarman awards, with the final judging taking place by the end of September. This year, there will be even more emphasis on how the pint looks and tastes, and we hope our pub landlords will rise to the challenge.”