In this blog post, I explore Hops n Grains - The Microbrewery in Sector 9, Panchkula.
Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Hops n Grains, a name synonymous with the art of craft brewing in India. This experience wasn't just about sampling beers; it was about immersing myself in a story that began in 2010 when Hops n Grains became the fifth microbrewery in India and has since grown to be the second oldest operational microbrewery in the country.
Hops n Grains - The Microbrewery |
The Journey Begins
Walking into Hops n Grains, I was instantly struck by the design and ambiance of the place. Spread over three floors and crafted by the talented designers Nikhil Pratap Singh and Suvrita Bhardwaj, the brewery exudes a contemporary yet classic charm.
Hops n Grains (Panchkula) |
The wooden interior design is classic and timeless, creating a warm and welcoming environment—perfect for enjoying a leisurely evening with friends or family.
Hops n Grains (Panchkula) |
The Legacy of Excellence
Under the expert guidance of master brewer Dr. S Cariappa, founders Amritanshu Agarwal and Priyanka Gupta have created a legacy that not only introduced craft beer to the region but elevated it.
Sampler Paddles at Hops n Grains |
Despite challenges like the highway liquor ban and the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to temporary closures, their passion and dedication saw them through. This resilience allowed them to expand, opening The Great Bear in Chandigarh and another Hops n Grains in Mohali.
Hops n Grains (Mohali) |
A Pioneer in Craft Brewing
Hops n Grains has been a trailblazer in the Tricity area's beer-drinking culture for over a decade. The founders' vision wasn't just to introduce craft beer but to create a fusion of excellent brews and exceptional culinary offerings.
Molten Beetroot and Peanut Kebab |
This pioneering spirit is evident in every sip and bite, with a strong influence from European brewing traditions.
Mezze Platter Non-Veg |
The Award-Winning Experience
Over the past 14 years, Hops n Grains has garnered several prestigious accolades, including the Times Food Awards for Best Trendsetter Microbrewery in North India and the Best Brewmaster North title at the Brewer's World Awards. These awards are a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and innovation in craft brewing.
Hops n Grains |
The Beer Lineup
During my visit, I had the chance to sample a variety of their beers. Their wheat, dark, and green apple brews are immensely popular and available at all three of their outlets.
Popular Brews at Hops n Grains |
However, the highlight of my tasting session was the Mango and Guava Beers. The Mango Beer, in particular, was a delightful concoction, the perfect blend of juicy mangoes and crisp beer, offering a refreshing twist that's perfect for summer.
More Than Just a Brewery
Hops n Grains is more than just a place to enjoy great beer; it's a place where every sip tells a story of barley, hops, and the meticulous art of craft brewing. It's where tradition meets innovation, and every visit becomes a memorable experience.
Hops n Grains - Tradition meets Innovation |
Conclusion
My visit to Hops n Grains was a journey through the rich tapestry of craft brewing excellence. From the beautifully designed interiors to the award-winning beers, every aspect of this microbrewery reflects a deep passion for the craft. If you're ever in the Tricity area, Hops n Grains is a must-visit destination that promises an unforgettable experience.
Hops n Grains |
In a world where the craft beer culture is rapidly evolving, Hops n Grains stands as a beacon of tradition, quality, and innovation. Cheers to many more years of brewing excellence!
Going to share about this place with my friends who stay in Chandigarh, I am sure they are going to have a good time.
ReplyDeleteThanks for reading and sharing your thoughts, Priyal! Your friends in Chandigarh are in for a treat. Hops n Grains is definitely a gem worth exploring. Let me know how their experience turns out! Cheers to good times and great beer! 🍻
DeleteThe story of the growth of Hops n Grains is so fascinating and inspiring at the same time. The place looks beautiful and classy and I am sure is a trendsetter in the beer drinking culture of the region.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your kind words, Sandy! I'm thrilled to hear that you found the story of Hops n Grains both fascinating and inspiring. It truly has been an incredible journey for the founders, and I'm glad the passion and hard work behind the place resonate with you. The atmosphere at Hops n Grains is something they're particularly proud of, and it's wonderful to know that it stands out to others as well.
DeleteThe blend of tradition and innovation, paired with their resilience, truly makes it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. Cheers to their excellence!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your wonderful comment, Ruchi! I'm glad you enjoyed the post. Hops n Grains really does have a unique blend of tradition and innovation that sets it apart. Their dedication and resilience make every visit memorable. Cheers to celebrating their excellence together!
DeleteWhat a fantastic recount of your visit to Hops n Grains! It's inspiring to read about their journey, resilience, and dedication to craft brewing. The ambiance, the rich legacy, and the award-winning experience all come together to make it a must-visit destination. Cheers to many more years of their pioneering spirit and excellence in brewing.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your kind words, Swati! Happy to learn that you enjoyed my recount of the visit to Hops n Grains. Their journey and dedication to craft brewing truly are inspiring, and it's wonderful to see that resonated with you as well. The ambiance and legacy they’ve built definitely make it a special place. Cheers to celebrating many more years of their pioneering spirit and excellence together!
DeleteYour vivid description of the visit to Hops n Grains is captivating! Learning about their journey, commitment to craft brewing, and resilience is truly inspiring. The combination of a welcoming ambiance, a legacy, and an acclaimed experience solidifies it as a destination not to be missed.
ReplyDeleteHi Dipika,
DeleteThank you so much for your wonderful comment! I'm thrilled to hear that you found my description of Hops n Grains captivating. Their journey and dedication to craft brewing are indeed inspiring, and I'm glad that came through in the post. The ambiance and legacy really do make it a special destination. Your kind words mean a lot, and I'm grateful for your support.