By Jared Butler, Hop City Director of Retail Operations
As Hop City’s retail director, the best part of my daily to-do list is getting to check in with and cheerlead for the superheroes I call my colleagues. These are tough times, y’all, and I think everyone could use a check-in and some cheerleading—so let’s talk!
I’m a big J.R.R. Tolkien fan, and his message that our ordinary, sincere interactions are redemptive, powerful, and truly the key to overcoming adversity is close to my heart. I know I for sure get by with a little help from my friends (big Beatles fan, too!) and firmly believe that life’s obstacles pose a struggle toward the heights that’s enough to fill one’s heart (Albert Camus, anyone?).
To that end, I see Hop City as a place where people of all stripes and spots can enjoy such human connection over a drink of their choosing—be it a hazy DIPA, off-the-beaten-path natural wine, zero proof cocktail, or THC-infused sipper. The company you keep is key, but the right beverage can also aid the quality of a conversation. From classic brews to no booze, I’ve got a few suggestions to help you and your crew lift each other up this weekend.
St. Bernardus Pater 6 Dubbel: My dad didn’t drink often, but he became a big fan of St. Bernardus after I introduced him to the legendary Belgian brewery on draft at one of our favorite haunts, Savannah’s Crystal Beer Parlor. October marks a year since he passed, and whenever I walk the stores’ Belgian sections and see the St. Bernardus lineup, I’m reminded of my own beloved pater. Cheers, dad!
The Famous Narragansett Lager: Pawtucket, RI is my hometown, and Rhode Island’s own ‘Gansett was my drink of choice back in my glory days. When I joined Hop City in 2019 as a retail associate at West End, Caleb Raubenault, the General Manager at the time, took me on the intro tour. I spotted ‘Gansett and the seasonal Del’s Shandy in the cooler, and I knew I was at home.
Hanson Brothers mmmHops: Yes…THOSE Hanson Brothers! I’m a true millennial and ‘90s kid 4 lyfe, so I obviously have to get nostalgic and mention one of this week’s new arrivals. Enjoy this Citra, Kush, and Idaho-hopped IPA as you realize the lyrics of their legendary 1997 “MMMBop” actually kind of hit you in the existential dread.
Elsewhere Lion’s Mane Lager: With Elsewhere’s final weekend upon us, Lion’s Mane Lager is the among last beers we’ve got in stock from our dear friends, founders Sam and Sara Kazmer and brewmaster Josh Watterson. Sara and I were on the opening team for Boxcar/Hop City West End, and worked together in the early days of the pandemic at Krog. Like many, I share fond Elsewhere memories, and the grace they’ve shown in their final weeks is an inspiration.
Allagash Haunted House: In my humble opinion, Allagash is in the top echelon of American breweries. If you’re looking for a spooky brew for Halloween week, grab this brilliant cross between a roasty porter and hoppy Belgian. PLUS: Allagash is our featured Fizz Ed brewery in November, and tickets just went live. Score yours now—they’re already flying fast!
Ghia Lime & Salt: I’m a non-alc kind of guy these days, but I still love beverages that offer interesting, complex flavors. Particularly on social occasions, when I want a booze-free beverage that isn’t just club soda and makes me feel like an adult, I reach for Lime & Salt and Ghia’s other Mediterranean-inspired spritzes.
