Sal Mortillaro II

Sal Mortillaro II is a Grand Master II Beer Judge and respected authority in the world of homebrewing, beer judging, and education. A certified BJCP judge since 2012, Sal serves in multiple leadership roles including exam proctor, grader, admin, and Southern Region Representative. He has judged top-tier competitions such as the Great American Beer Festival, Aro Rojo, and the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild, and has served as Best of Show judge for both the Alabama and Montana State Beer Championships.

As one of the first ten certified U.S. educators for the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Award in Beer (Levels 1 & 2), Sal is at the forefront of formal beer education. He’s a frequent guest on the NOLA Drinks podcast and a contributor to Louisiana Craft Beer Magazine.

A longtime member and Educational Director of the Mystic Krewe of Brew, Sal also coordinates major beer festivals like New Orleans On Tap, Bayou Beer Fest, and Larry Fest. As a founding board member of The Bayou State Homebrew Competition Circuit, he actively supports and advances the regional beer scene.

Known for his passion for unique brewing techniques and experimental styles, Sal is a fan of all beer types but has a special appreciation for malty and sour brews. With a decade-plus of hands-on experience, competition judging, and public beer education, Sal is a trusted expert in beer reviews and brewing excellence.