We want to profile “Bearded” Eric our March Guide of the Month. Eric is one of our Pittsburgh guides, and has been raved and reviewed.
Q: How long have you lived in the Pittsburgh area? What do you love about it?
A: I just moved back to Pittsburgh in June of 2017, but spent four years here when I was studying at Point Park University, which is located right in the heart of downtown. Pittsburgh is a great little city. It feels like a small town, but with all the amenities of a big city. It’s never too hard to get around and there’s always something going on.
Q: What do you love about beer?
A: The taste.
Ha, Really though, I love the diversity. There’s a beer for every occasion.
Q: How long have you worked for City Brew Tours?
A: I have worked with City Brew Tours since August of 2017.
Q: Do you remember your first day? How have you changed since then?
A: I can’t remember my very first tour, but I remember my second tour was a small bachelor party. The guys and I ended up having a lot in common, and I ended up becoming Facebook friends with a few of them. I think the biggest thing that has changed is my ability to lead the group while maintaining a fun atmosphere. It can be a tough medium to find sometime, but I think I’ve got it down now.
Q: What’s your favorite part of your job?
A: My favorite part is when a guest discovers a new love for a type of beer they’ve never tried before. This happens a lot with sours and stouts. It’s cool to open peoples’ eyes to something new.
Q: Do you have any beer-drinking tips?
A: This may be a no-brainer to some people, but always pour your beer in a glass, especially if you’re eating food. You’re going to feel way less bloated. Changed my life.
Q: Are you a home brewer?
A: I home brew in one gallon batches, so it’s nothing too advanced. The best beer I’ve ever made was a cilantro-lime wheat beer, which was made with cilantro that I grew in my backyard. 10/10 would make again.
Q: What is your current favorite beer? Beer-drinking activity?
A: I’m a real sucker for hazy IPAs, but admittedly, I’ve been on a bit of a health kick lately and have been drinking Guinness when I go out, which is surprisingly low in calories. My favorite beer-drinking activity is a game called Horse Races, which is a game I play with my extended family every Christmas Eve. It’s loud, it’s quick, and it’s by far the best drinking game out there.
Q: What could someone catch you doing in your spare time?
A: I’m a musician and play out around town under the name Middle Child, so you may find me at a smokey dive bar or basement show.