Beer Connoisseur

Gary MonterossoYour Guide To Savoring The World’s Finest Beers By Guy Zompa

In the world of beer, statistics have shown in the past decade that the consumer wanted more. Not quantity, but quality. The beer drinker’s palate has gradually become more refined and there is a movement towards drinking better beer. Craft beer is on the rise, with 2010 seeing double digit increases in the United States in both sales and volume. When a beer drinker walks into the store on a Friday night, the selections are vast, the choices numerous. Where should a drinker of the “big three” go when they thirst for more?

Over the past twenty years, Gary Monterosso has emerged as an expert in the field. From the difference between Stout and Porter, to the proper beer pairing with chocolate cake, Gary can offer some insight. Quite often when picking up a six-pack, a drinker will grab the old standby, week in and week out, the same friendly bottles at the end of the cooler. But, every once in a while he will venture outside that comfort zone and try what the craft world calls a “gateway beer.” This is that one magical beer that can transform an everyday pilsner drinker into a believer of bourbon aged stouts and flavor infused barley wines. This is where a friendly word of advice can often make the difference between running back to the old security blanket or venturing into the craft beer wonderland.

Some in the industry would qualify this as a struggle between “traditional” beers versus craft but to others it’s an outright revolution. Think of it as a war between those who brew for craft and those who brew for profit. As Sam Calagione, founder of Dogfish Head Brewery says in regards to Gary’s expertise in this battle, “His leadership in the field helps even the recently enlisted earn their stripes.” Those looking to join Gary’s ranks can find him on the internet, radio, television and in print. Gary’s first break was as a beer writer for various newspapers and magazines. Over his career he’s written for different organizations and has earned several national awards for writing excellence. Most recently he’s written Artisan Beers, A Complete Guide to Savoring the World’s Finest Beers in which he covers everything from the flavors and textures of beer to proper purchasing and cellaring of beer.

After conquering the print medium, Gary turned his attention to the internet and viral media. He has hosted over one hundred webisodes of the critically acclaimed series, Still Crazy After All These Beers. Each one features Gary interviewing the movers and shakers of the industry including owners of such breweries as Magic Hat and Boston Beer Co. (Sam Adams). Gary has brought his unique sense of humor and expertise to millions of viewers who appreciate the finer side of beer.

In 2011 Gary made the jump to broadcast, making his debut on the History Channel’s Epic History of Everyday Things. On the show, Gary recounts the history of beer dating back to the Sumerians and their need to purify their drinking water. He takes the viewer from ancient times to today’s modern day battle for beer supremacy.

So look away from that old standard on special at the store and toward those who have taken a stand for better beer. Join with your fellow brethren who want more. Gary Monterosso wants YOU … to drink better beer.