Gary Gruver

Gary Gruver is an award-winning mixologist who spent over 20 years in the restaurant and beverage alcohol industry. He is currently serving as the Director of Beverage for Marriott Internationals Global Operations and Americas team, leading beverage programing initiatives for Marriott Internationals 30 brands. He started his career on the competition circuit, earning titles such as “Most Popular Bartender in the Nation” and “America’s Choice Award” by Gentlemen’s Quarterly (GQ). He is a founding member of the United States Bartender’s Guild (USBG) of Kentucky. Before joining Marriott, he was the Director of Mixology and Spirits Education at Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits of Kentucky, as well as the founder of the Academy of Spirits & Fine Service of Kentucky. Gary also owns a bar in his hometown of Louisville and currently serves as a Spirits Judge for the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.