Gurth Pretty, cheese connoisseur and Canada's food and beverageambassador, was introduced to the savoury world of imported cheese byhis grandparents. His love of cheese compelled him to write TheDefinitive Guide to Canadian Artisanal and Fine Cheese, the mostcomprehensive guide on the subject matter.

Gurth graduated from Bishop's University in Quebec with a major inbiology, and double minors in geography and drama. His first career asa nature interpreter for Parks Canada allowed him to meet locals of theregion and taste their specialties. His love of food called him back toschool, and upon graduating with honours from George Brown College'sChef School, he worked in restaurant kitchens in Toronto and Atlantaand even served as a private chef for a Canadian diplomat in Dublin,Ireland.

Gurth’s culinary skills and knowledge of Canadian food products areregularly requested. Agriculture and Agri-food Canada frequentlycontract his services, he has worked as their chef at food trade showsin France, Germany, and Belgium, and his articles have been publishedin publications such as Via Rail’s Destinations, Foodservice andHospitality, and Foodservice News.