Aldi has appointed an official beer taster following a nationwide hunt.

Emma Budd, aged 27 from Milton Keynes, has beaten hundreds of applicants to land the role.

The appointment follows a nationwide hunt which asked hopeful beer fans to explain why they should be chosen for the role – as well as outlining what their favourite beer is and why.

In her entry, Emma, who is a Service Manager for the NHS, explained she ‘loves beer’ and has tried locally brewed tipples in 51 countries including Antigua, Mykonos, and St Lucia.

Aldi’s newly assigned beer taster received a selection of ten different products from its beer range in exchange for feedback.

This year the new line-up includes a versatile selection, from the smooth Hop Foundry Helles Lager, which Emma described as “floral” and “fruity”, to the fiery Hop Foundry Ginger Beer, which was called out for its “spicy” and “aromatic” finish.

Emma said: “I still feel a little shocked. It’s exciting to be part of something I really enjoy and have a passion for. I have a lot of experience in tasting beer due to travelling around the world whilst working on a cruise ship; searching out local products was one on my favourite things to do.

“I hope my breadth of knowledge and taste buds can help guide next year’s range. My friends and family are thrilled for me, and I feel so lucky to be given this opportunity.”

Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi UK, says: “We are always striving to make Aldi’s beer selection bigger and better each year, but ultimately, it’s the opinion of our customers we value most.

“That’s why we’re excited to have Emma as our Official Beer Taster, to share her insights on the new range which will help guide next year’s selection. I’m sure our buying team will find Emma’s review very helpful for new range development.”