This content was originally published by The Hop Review, a digital magazine that joined the Hop Culture family in March 2020.
This piece was written by Tom White.
In this week’s Hoplinks, a bar isn’t rescued, you can buy very expensive beer, a founder explains why he hasn’t sold, we’re entranced by a beer poem, Chicago’s Power 50 are listed, and The Most Interesting Man in the World is set to ride off into the sunset. What else did we miss this week? Let us know in the comments.
ANDERSONVILLE, CHICAGO – In your strange news story of the week, craft beer mecca Hopleaf has said they were approached by Spike TV’s “Bar Rescue” to be featured on the reality TV show. As frequent visitors to Hopleaf, we tend to agree with owner Michael Roper’s assertion that he wasn’t aware they were in need of being saved. [Eater Chicago]
OLD TOWN, CHICAGO – Yard House, a craft beer focused chain new to Chicago, announced they’ll be offering the much coveted Sam Adams Utopias, starting March 28th. Retailing for about $200 a bottle, the 28% ABV “beer” will be sold for $22 for a two ounce pour. Still more than you’ve likely ever spent on beer, but if Utopias is on your beer bucket list, it’s quite the opportunity. [THR Wire]
ESCONDIDO, CA – In an extremely honest and candid conversation, Stone Brewing’s Founder Greg Koch tells why the southern California brewery has never sold to big beer. His determination to stick to his original ideals for his company is impressive, as it’s not hard to imagine he’s been approached many times with a whole lotta money to sell out. [The Full Pint]
BEER – This animated poem about beer is awesome. While a little depressing, we’d highly advise a watch.
CHICAGO – The city’s “Power 50” have been highlighted by Chicago Magazine, and it features a couple beer-centric folks. Among the traditional political powers throughout the city, they list Rocky Wirtz or distributor Breakthru Beverage and Paul Kahan, restauranteur at Publican, one of our favourite beer destinations. [Chicago Magazine]
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – Dutch owned Mexican beer brand Dos Equis will soon retire their iconic spokesman, “The Most Interesting Man in the World.” The company is planning a goodbye ad campaign, culminating in the Most Interesting Man leaving this planet for good. [USA Today]
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Photograph by Melinda Myers from our 2013 interview with Michael Roper, owner of Hopleaf