Brewing Excellence since 2011
Explore our journey from humble beginnings in a garage to becoming one of Louisiana's most celebrated craft breweries. Discover our passion for brewing and our commitment to quality.
Our Journey from Garage to Brewery
Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. originated from the home of Zac and Cari Caramonta. What started in a cramped garage, surrounded by two fat cats and a halfpipe, quickly grew into a passion for crafting exceptional beers. Zac began homebrewing as an exploration into the brewing process after experiencing exceptional craft beers. His mission was to create beers just as excellent as those that inspired him. The Korova Milk Porter and the Hoppopotamus IPA debuted at the 2011 New Orleans on Tap Beer Festival. Encouraged by positive feedback and connections made at local festivals, Zac and Cari opened a 14,000 square foot brewery in Hammond, Louisiana in 2014.
Our Milestones
2011
Korova Milk Porter and Hoppopotamus IPA debut at New Orleans on Tap Beer Festival.
2014
Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. opens its doors in Hammond, Louisiana.
2017
Awarded the Louisiana Lantern Award for excellence in manufacturing and community service.
2017-18
Recognized by the Brewers Association as one of the top 50 fastest-growing craft breweries.
2023
Named the Louey Award winner for Louisiana Attraction of the Year.
How We Craft
Our Brews
At Gnarly Barley, we take pride in our meticulous brewing process. From selecting the finest ingredients to perfecting each step of brewing, we ensure every batch of beer meets our high standards. Our dedication to quality and flavor shines through in every sip.
Meet Our Team
Get to know the talented individuals behind Gnarly Barley.
Zac is an avid skateboarder and a craftsman at heart. Not willing to waste away his free time, Zac taught himself how to build and brew, not only to bring his passions closer to home, but to share with his friends and family. When his garage could no longer contain his ambitions, he quit his day job and established Gnarly Barley Brewing with his wife Cari.
Zac is a member of the Mystic Krew of Brew homebrewers club in Covington, LA. He is also a founding member of the YOURS foundation, an organization that helps bring skateparks to local communities.
Cari has always had a penchant for craft in its many forms. Before she developed a soft spot for craft beer, she was constructing objects to suit her life, whether it was customizing her wardrobe, furniture, or visual displays for her job as a fashion merchandiser. Having the same DIY mindset as her husband Zac, she found brewing just as rewarding. Cari is also a member of the Mystic Krew of Brew homebrewers club in Covington and a Cicerone Certified Beer Server. She works with Zac on recipes, brewing, marketing and her favorite part, tasting.
Join Our Team
We're always looking for rad people to join the Gnarly Barley fam! If you share our love for craft beer and dedication to quality, explore our current job openings and start your journey with us.