James Kellow
Beer Sommelier & Storyteller
A seasoned beer sommelier with over a decade of experience exploring the beer scenes of London, Amsterdam, and beyond. Since 2013, I have been immersed in the world of beer, working across retail, events, sales, and service while sharing my passion and expertise through tastings, talks, and tours.
As a member of the Guild of Beer Sommeliers and the Guild of British Beer Writers, I have spent years inspiring beer drinkers, guiding them through the world of hops, malts, and yeast, and the wonderful experiences created by their combination. My journey has taken me from the bustling breweries of London to the historic streets and bars of Amsterdam, where I have curated unique experiences for enthusiasts and novices alike.
I originally cut my teeth as the events and tours manager at Crate Brewery in Hackney Wick, East London, during the dizzy early years of the UK’s craft beer boom. I now take beer fans throughout the city exploring its diverse and vibrant beer culture, with each stop offering a new story and a memorable flavour.
In 2020, the global pandemic necessitated a pivot to online, and I hosted over 200 virtual tastings, connecting with beer drinkers around the world. Now back on the streets of Amsterdam and London, I offer private and public beer tours, judge competitions, and host in-person tastings celebrating the art and culture of beer. In Amsterdam, I lead beer tours and share my expertise over the bar at the renowned beer specialist Gollem cafês - a must-visit for any beer lover visiting the city!
I’ve always loved being on the water and combining beer with boats whenever I have the chance. In London, I was the founder/operator of the London Craft Beer Cruise, and I now host the new “Hops & Heritage” product from boutique luxury European cruise company Riverside Cruises. Onboard, cruise guests enjoy stunning views of Northern Europe’s Beer Belt, fine dining with expertly paired beer, and at every port, I lead visits to historic, important, and delicious beer venues too.
Whether you’re in Amsterdam or London or somewhere else, I offer a unique and tailored experience, where beer is more than just a drink; it’s a conversation, a journey, and a shared story. Ready to explore the world of beer? Get in touch for tours, tastings, and all things hoppy.