Inside the Craft Beer Hype: A Conversation with Moose of SF Tequila Shop
💡 Key Insight: A great Double IPA isn’t defined by how bitter or strong it is; rather, it is defined by how well all those big, complex flavors actually hold together in the glass.
Moose, you see a lot of enthusiasts walk through these doors. Why is it that some people will literally drive for hours just to get their hands on a single can of beer?
It sounds wild to anyone on the outside, right? But some beers aren’t just beverages; they are landmarks. When you’re talking about something like the American Double IPA, or DIPA, you’re talking about a style that rewards curiosity. People think “double” just means more bitterness or more booze, but that is a huge misconception. In a great DIPA, the extra hops create layers of citrus, pine, and tropical fruit. The bitterness is just the frame, not the whole painting.
The Legendary Double IPA
Speaking of legendary DIPAs, let’s talk about the one everyone asks for: Heady Topper. Why does a can from Vermont have such a “mythical” status here in San Francisco?
In our SF Tequila Shop, Heady Topper from The Alchemist is in its own league. For years, scarcity built the hype, but the liquidity kept it alive. They use six different hop varieties to create what I’d call a symphony in a glass. It isn’t about being the loudest or the most bitter. It is about intention. They even insist on the 16-ounce can to protect those delicate aromatics from light and oxygen. When a brewery cares that much about the vessel, you know the liquid inside is serious.
For someone who hasn’t tried it yet, what should they expect when they finally crack that silver can?
You’re going to get a flavor-forward experience that evolves as the beer warms. You’ll notice something different in the first sip versus the last. It has that genuine cult credibility because it lives up to the reputation. It’s lush, complex, and honestly, at $6 for a 16-ounce can, it is the most affordable “bucket list” item you’ll ever find.
It’s rare to see a beer live up to that much talk.
Exactly. If you’ve been on the fence, this is your nudge to come in and see what the fuss is about. We have it here at SF Tequila Shop, but Heady Topper is just the beginning.
SF Tequila Shop – SF’s Hidden Gem for Craft Beer Lovers!
While you’re stopping by for the legends, I highly recommend you take a look at the rest of our shelves. We have curated an extensive collection of craft beers that goes way beyond the big names. From local microbrews to rare imports, there is always something new to discover. Come through and find your next favorite pour.
SF Tequila Shop: Your Gateway to Mexico’s Finest Spirits Has Grown
Mike Doherty serves as Chief Experience Officer at Greening Projects, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming underutilized urban spaces into vibrant green areas
