Today is the 59th birthday of Italian beer writer Maurizio Maestrelli. I think I first met Maurizio in Belgium several years ago on a press trip, but we’ve also judged together at the Brussels Beer Challenge and, I believe, in Japan. He’s also a founder of Milano Beer Week, so we have that in common. He’s a great person to share a beer with. Join me in wishing Maurizio a very happy birthday.

Me, Stephen Beaumont and Maurizio at the Kerstbierfest in 2013.

Maurizio at the Brussels Beer Challenge in 2016.

Maurizio at the Brussels Beer Challenge in 2017.