An Expression of Outstanding Hop Character
Attention breweries and beer lovers, Washington Hop Mob is happening this February, just as it has since 2014! Yes, with some changes. Despite the challenges presented by these difficult times, we are moving ahead with Washington Hop Mob. Pictured above: Nat Pellman of Brouwer’s Cafe with Sarah Verdieck, of Bale Breaker Brewing, last year’s Hop Mob champ.
In the past, we’ve helped organize a series of Hop Mob events at taprooms and pubs, but since that’s not possible this year, we’re just asking breweries to step up and make Hop Mob beers. We’ll figure the rest out as it comes. One thing is certain, we will help promote any beers made for Hop Mob. Below, we describe exactly what is a Hop Mob beer.
Regardless of the circumstances, one thing remains unchanged. The whole point of Hop Mob is to support and promote Washington’s vibrant brewing industry. This year more than ever, that seems an essential mission.
Consumers, though events probably won’t be part of the program this year, on the Hop Mob website we will share information about the beers, their availability, and anything else that you need to know. We encourage you, more than ever, to support your local brewery. Click here for the latest list of participating breweries and beers. (Growing all the time.)
About the Beers
Originally, Hop Mob was all about triple IPAs. That was fun at first, but it presented a lot of challenges for everyone involved, so as of last year the boundaries have changed a bit. A Hop Mob beer is one that expresses outstanding hop character. Any style of beer is welcome as long as it meets the basic criteria below.
- Brewed by a Washington brewery.
- Designed and created for Hop Mob. Not an existing beer or recipe that otherwise meets the criteria.
- A beer featuring a complete expression of hop character.
- Minimum of 50 IBU.
- Any style of beer is acceptable.
- Ready for consumption by the end of the first week of February.
Breweries interested in participating should email Kendall Jones at kjones@washingtonbeerblog.com. Please include the term Hop Mob in the subject. Please let us know any details about the beer and its availability (draft only? Cans? etc.). We can add details later, but let us know your intentions now.