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Hugh Sisson, the founder of Heavy Seas Brewing, talks about 25 years in the brewing industry and what he has learned along the way. From distribution decisions to a love of cask ale and while it will never take off in America, he shares insights, stories, and a prayer from the brewery in Baltimore.
Show Notes
Show notes from host John Holl:
"I’m both excited and bummed to have Hugh Sisson, the founder of Heavy Seas beer on the show today. Excited because Hugh is a thoughtful, engaging, and dynamic figure in beer who has worked tirelessly to foster and grow an industry and has been a mentor for many. Bummed because I had hoped to do this interview in person.
"I’m both excited and bummed to have Hugh Sisson, the founder of Heavy Seas beer on the show today. Excited because Hugh is a thoughtful, engaging, and dynamic figure in beer who has worked tirelessly to foster and grow an industry and has been a mentor for many. Bummed because I had hoped to do this interview in person.
But, you know, Covid. It’s likely better to be apart because if I was at the brewery I’d likely have one too many pints of IPA.
He’s been in beer a lot longer than most, with Heavy Seas and a brewpub, named Sissons before that. He and his dad successfully worked to get state legislation changed to make professional brewing easier in Maryland, and he continues to stay involved and be an advocate for an industry he cares deeply about.
This week the brewery, officially licensed as Clipper City, but going under the Heavy Seas name turns 25. It’s an odd year to have a milestone birthday but the brewery is continuing its tradition of releasing a big, boozy monster of an ale – and we’ll talk about that.
Hugh is also looking forward to reopening the taproom when it’s safe to do so.
A few years back when I was on a book tour I did a signing at Heavy Seas for a few hours and watched as happy patrons came in for pints and a tour. Hugh led several of these tours himself and would start off with a very specific reading.
Since he hasn’t had an audience for a while, I thought it would be good to let him stretch those muscles. Let us pray."
For more Drink Beer, Think Beer or to check out Beer Edge: The Newsletter for Beer Professionals, follow us on Twitter @thebeeredge and subscribe to our beer industry focused newsletter. There is more information, articles, and engaging content at Beer Edge.
For more Drink Beer, Think Beer or to check out Beer Edge: The Newsletter for Beer Professionals, follow us on Twitter @thebeeredge and subscribe to our beer industry focused newsletter. There is more information, articles, and engaging content at Beer Edge.
- Host: John Holl
- Guest: Hugh Sisson of Heavy Seas Brewing
- Sponsor: Cigar City Brewing
- Tags: beer, craft beer, wine, brewpubs, distribution, Maryland, Baltimore, IPA, Cask Ale
This episode is sponsored by:
Cigar City Brewing
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Cigar City Brewing
The world needs heroes, and in our home state of Florida only a very special hero will do. A hero with a shark tooth around his neck, a Grim Reaper tattoo on his arm, and a rap sheet longer than his mama’s mustache. A hero who’s forgotten more about amateur taxidermy and alligator rasslin’ than you’ll ever know. What better way to pay tribute to our beloved Florida Man than with a big ol’ Double India Pale Ale brewed with a nearly-criminal amount of hops and a moderate bitterness that just about matches Florida Man’s general disposition. This hopped-up whopper of a beer is big in character and guaranteed to sear itself into your memory, just like “the world’s worst superhero,” Florida Man.
Creators and Guests
What is Drink Beer, Think Beer With John Holl?
Drink Beer, Think Beer is a weekly conversation with brewers, growers, and other brewing industry professionals that explores the art, culture, and business of craft beer. Hosted by John Holl and recorded on location, this podcast gets to the bottom of every pint and offers insight into the dynamic world of beer.