BEER GUIDE – MATTHEW
Tell us about yourself!
My journey into craft beer began while I was sneaking beers into culinary school to cook with. Although this could have led to disaster, the chef instructors were totally on board! I am currently studying for the Certified Cicerone exam and plan on taking it in the near future. When I am not tasting, studying, or talking about beer I am probably engaged in some sort of gaming whether it is board, table top role playing, or video games. My most memorable D&D character to date was an Otter bard with a love for the drink who compulsively exaggerated the retelling of every story.
Favorite beer(s)?
My all time favorite is Alpha King from Three Floyds – This brewery holds a special place for me as it was my local watering hole before I even knew what good beer was!
What do you love most about Phoenix’s beer scene?
I absolutely love the focus that many AZ breweries have on sustainable practices. Whether it is through sourcing of local ingredients, water conservation, or community outreach, there are numerous examples of how this is a truly inclusive and supportive industry.
Why did you want to be a Beer Guide?
I just love talking about beer and got my start on this path by doing guided tastings. I enjoy sharing my passion for this storied beverage with others and what better way than as a road trip!
If you were an animal, which animal would you be?
Not a drunken otter… Actually, probably that with slightly more humility, but all the adorableness. In all seriousness, I would likely be a spoiled housecat, be cute for 10 minutes a day and get all the treats and belly rubs, till I unexpectedly claw you. (no animals were harmed in the making of this post)
If you could have a drink with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would be interested in sharing a drink with the average Joe from ancient Egypt, Greece, or Roman empires. I think it would be fascinating to be able to engage with someone normal who was living in that moment in time.
What’s an interesting fact about you?
I go to the Renaissance Festival every year and dress up!
BEER GUIDE – DAVID
Favorite beer(s)?
Pilsners (Urquell is the best) or Porters (Black Butte)
What do you love most about Phoenix’s beer scene?
The variety of micro-brews and their individual stories, from family-owned,to woman-owned and operated, to those with great restaurants and others with fantastic food trucks.
Why did you want to be a Beer Guide?
Beer has long been my beverage of choice and learning both about how beer is made and what makes one craft different than another is both interesting and an ongoing education that, for those that have an interest, should be shared. This, combined with the fact that I am a people person that values engaging and sharing stories should make my role as a beer guide enjoyable by both myself and most importantly those on my tour.
If you were an animal, which animal would you be?
Parrot: Most find you interesting and fun to be around; you can talk to people, and fly to wherever when you need or want to.
If you could have a drink with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Walt Disney: I would like to find out the 3 or 4 key elements that allowed Disney to create and maintain the Happiest Place on Earth…and how to translate and put in practice those elements in today’s complicated world.
What’s an interesting fact about you?
I’ve participated in Oktoberfest, Munich Germany, 4 times now. It’s an amazing and incredibly fun event.