With Heady Topper, John Kimmich created one of the most sought-after beers in the world, and effectively created the profile of the modern IPA. In Part 1 of this tour-de-force of a conversation, we talk to John about his path to opening The Alchemist with his wife, Jen, in 2003; the business — and current landscape — of craft beer; his advice on opening a brewery; and what distinguishes great beer from mediocre beer.

TOPICS & TIMES:

Pittsburgh Steelers (2:42)
John’s Beer Background (4:50)
The Effects of Prohibition (18:52)
Mediocre Beer (22:42)
Current Landscape of Craft Beer (25:42)
Being Fortunate vs Being Lucky (34:28)
Opening The Alchemist (39:23)
Why the name, ‘The Alchemist’ (44:59)
Skiing / Snowboarding (51:45)
Why Vermont? (52:55)
Heady Topper & It’s Origins (55:39)
Advice on Opening a Brewery? (1:03:13)
Great Beer vs. Mediocre Beer (1:05:25)
Bitterness vs. Astringency (1:11:44)
Today’s Hazy IPAs (1:18:21)

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The Alchemist co-founder & brewer, John Kimmich (Part 1)