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

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) RELATED LINKS Part 2: Our Conversation with The Alchemist's John Kimmich The Alchemist Brewery BLISTER’s Open Mic Series CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS: Blister Podcast Bikes & Big Ideas Off the Couch GEAR:30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.