Boston's Best Spots To Buy Alchemist Beer

The Alchemist is a Vermont-based brewery with a cult-like following that is known for its award-winning Heady Topper beer, a double IPA that has been one of the most sought-after beers in the US. The brewery, which does not distribute outside of its home state, has made Heady Topper and Focal Banger available in Massachusetts. In the Boston area, these beers have been available at Thistle & Shamrock and Porter Square Wine & Spirits in Cambridge. BeerMenus also lists Toronado Pub in Boston as a place to find The Alchemist beers.

The Alchemist's Heady Topper beer in Boston

The Alchemist's Heady Topper is a highly sought-after double IPA beer, rated the number one beer in the world by BeerAdvocate. It's so popular, in fact, that it's been dubbed "the ultimate cult beer". The catch? It's famously hard to get hold of. The Alchemist, a Vermont brewery with a cult-like following, doesn't distribute outside of its home state—until recently, that is.

In April 2020, The Alchemist partnered with Night Shift Distributing to bring Heady Topper and Focal Banger, another popular IPA, to various outposts in Massachusetts. This was big news for beer enthusiasts in Boston, who previously had to make the trip to Vermont to get their hands on a can of Heady Topper. Even in Vermont, only a handful of shops and restaurants sell the beer, and it often sells out fast, with people queuing for hours to get their hands on a four-pack.

So, where can you buy Heady Topper in Boston? Well, it looks like distribution is a little unpredictable. The beer was available at Thistle & Shamrock and Porter Square Wine & Spirits in Cambridge for a time, but it's not known how extensive the distribution currently is. The Alchemist has said that Massachusetts can expect to see Heady Topper every four to five weeks or so. Your best bet is to keep an eye on The Alchemist's Facebook and Instagram pages, where they post updates on distribution, and to check the brewery's website for delivery dates and locations.

If you're desperate to get your hands on a can of Heady Topper, you could always try the Toronado Pub in Boston, which serves The Alchemist's Focal Banger on tap. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you could plan a road trip to Vermont and visit some of the shops and restaurants that sell Heady Topper, such as Arvad's Grill & Pub in Waterbury, or Crop Bistro & Brewery in Stowe. Just be prepared to queue!

Focal Banger beer in Boston

Focal Banger, the American India Pale Ale from The Alchemist, has made its way to Boston. During the early days of the pandemic, the cult-like Vermont beer became available in the Boston area, only to disappear quickly. However, beer enthusiasts in Boston now have another chance to get their hands on it.

A check on local beer and wine shops in the region, including in Boston, Arlington, Needham, Woburn, and Melrose, indicates that Focal Banger is available once again. Some restaurants and bars in these areas may also be offering the beer. The Alchemist, located in Waterbury and Stowe, Vermont, is known for its award-winning Focal Banger IPA, which is brewed using Citra and Mosaic hops and British malts.

Focal Banger is best enjoyed straight from the can, as pouring it into a glass can release essential hop aromas that the brewers have worked hard to retain. The beer is perishable and at its best when it is young, fresh, and hazy, so be sure to keep it cold and drink it as soon as possible.

While the availability of Focal Banger in Boston may be short-lived, beer lovers in the area can take advantage of this opportunity to taste this highly-rated and sought-after IPA from The Alchemist.

Toronado Pub

The Toronado Pub is a popular spot for beer enthusiasts in Boston, offering a wide range of beverages to suit diverse tastes. With an extensive menu that includes casks, beers on tap, bottles, and cans, you're sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds.

The pub is renowned for its diverse and unique beer selections, showcasing various styles such as West Coast IPAs, American Pale Ales, and Belgian Strong Ales. They also offer sour ales, barleywines, and spiced beers, ensuring that every visit presents an opportunity to explore new flavours and aromas.

One of Toronado Pub's standout features is its exclusive beers, crafted in collaboration with renowned breweries. These limited-edition brews are specially made for the pub, adding an extra layer of excitement for beer aficionados. The pub's atmosphere is warm and inviting, providing the perfect backdrop for patrons to unwind and savour their chosen drinks.

To enhance the overall experience, Toronado Pub maintains a strict 21+ ID requirement, ensuring a mature and relaxed environment for all patrons. For added convenience, they offer an on-site ATM, making it easy for guests to access cash for their favourite drinks.

Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of craft beverages, the Toronado Pub in Boston is a must-visit destination. With its impressive selection, exclusive offerings, and inviting atmosphere, it stands as a testament to the city's thriving beer culture.

Thistle & Shamrock in Cambridge

Thistle & Shamrock is a small, locally-owned market located in North Cambridge, Massachusetts. The shop is run by a husband and wife duo who live a 5-minute walk away with their dog, two cats, and two children.

Thistle & Shamrock offers a wide range of products, including groceries, beer, wine, spirits, baked goods, coffee, and household items. They are known for their extensive selection of local craft beers and fine wines, as well as their friendly staff and inviting atmosphere. The store has received positive reviews for its convenient location and diverse product offerings.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Thistle & Shamrock focused on providing grab-and-go food options to its customers. They also regularly host wine and beer tastings, creating a community-oriented atmosphere. The shop is committed to supporting local businesses and often features products from other small businesses in the area.

Thistle & Shamrock is open daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM, and they accept credit cards as a form of payment. The address is 62 Walden Street, Cambridge, MA 02140, and they can be contacted at (617) 492-2522 for inquiries or to place special orders.

In addition to The Thistle & Shamrock, there are a few other options for purchasing Alchemist beer in the Boston area. The Alchemist, a Vermont-based brewery, has started distributing its beers, including Heady Topper and Focal Banger, to various outposts in Massachusetts through a partnership with Night Shift Distributing.

Porter Square Wine & Spirits in Cambridge

Porter Square Wine & Spirits is a local, independent wine and spirit shop located in historic Cambridge, Massachusetts. Nestled in a cozy and convenient plaza on the "miracle mile" between Harvard Square and Davis Square, it is easily accessible and a convenient stop for all your beverage needs.

The store boasts a thoughtfully curated selection of wines, spirits, craft beers, ciders, and sakes, with an emphasis on quality and variety. Their inventory includes gorgeous grower Champagnes, fine and rare wines from France and Spain, better magnums, a wide range of amari, high-end vermouths, an impressive sherry section, and more. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a craft beer enthusiast, Porter Square Wine & Spirits has something for everyone.

When it comes to beer, they offer a diverse range of options, including local and international craft beers. While it is unclear if they stock Alchemist beer, they do offer a range of other craft beers that may be of interest. The store is committed to providing a unique and vibrant experience, with a carefully curated selection that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate about their products, ensuring that you receive the best possible service and guidance in your beverage choices.

If you're looking for a specific beer, such as Alchemist, it's always a good idea to give them a call before your visit. Their inventory is constantly evolving, and they can provide you with the most up-to-date information on their current stock. You can reach out to them via phone, email, or text, and their contact information is readily available on their website. Their address is 13 White Street (Massachusetts Avenue) Cambridge, MA 02140, and their phone number is (617) 547-3110.

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