Portland-based Ginger Cult makes alcoholic ginger beer brewed in Hillsboro with a much spicier and fresher profile than the store bought ginger sodas that most people are familiar with. After launching in spring 2024, the craft brewed Ginger Cult is expanding their lineup with a new tropical ginger flavor and an upcoming non-alcoholic version in 12oz cans and 4-packs now distributed across the state in partnership with Point Blank Distributing.

Ginger Cult was founded by Aaron Wichler and Chris Heagney, both veterans of the craft beer, cider, wine, and kombucha breweries of the Pacific Northwest. Whether its making small batch Deidala Cider or fermented Garlicki condiments, the duo has followed their interests down strange and delicious rabbit holes tied to unforgettable drinking and food experiences. The inspiration for Ginger Cult came after experiencing the alcoholic ginger beers in England while studying brewing in Sunderland in 2011.

The majority of U.S. made ginger “beer” is more like ginger flavor soda or sweetened tonic all with very high levels of carbonation. After a years long process of dialing in a custom recipe and techniques, Heagney and Wichler created a real brewed but gluten-free ginger beer that kept the sweetness low and the spice level high. Ginger Cult is brewed and fermented with ginger, sugar, molasses, and secret spices, which gives a full spectrum of heat, flavor, and complexity that gives it a different flavor profile from other alcoholic beverages like hard seltzers or hard kombuchas.

The flagship flavor of ginger beer is the Cult Classic with a label by artist Corey Redding who designed a playful occult and heavy metal inspired look for the brand. It’s got heat, lots of fresh gingery character, a splash of citrus, and is 5% abv.

This month Ginger Cult has introduced their second flavor called Counter Culture - a tropical version of the ginger beer that is just a little bit juicier with the subtle flavors of mango and pineapple.

By the end of the year a third Ginger Cult product called Subculture will be a non-alcoholic version of the Cult Classic flavor. Some might think they would start with a non-alcoholic product, or assume that all ginger beer is actually alcohol-free, but Heagney and Wichler remind us that they are first and foremost an alcoholic ginger beer brand. Subculture reflects the same flavor profile and drinkability as the flagship. Even better, Subculture is much healthier than other n/a ginger beers, with theirs coming in with only 8 grams of sugar as compared to most mass-produced brands 40ish grams of sugar. This is less sweet, spicier, more flavorful, and a great support local alternative for Dry January and year-round refreshment.

"We’re incredibly excited to partner with Point Blank," said Chris Heagney, co-founder of Ginger Cult. "Their reputation for supporting fun and exciting brands and their impressive distribution network align perfectly with our vision. This partnership will help us share the Ginger Cult experience with more people and make our uniquely spicy ginger beer a staple on more shelves."

Ginger Cult's demonic and aggressively refreshing ginger beers are known for their bold, aromatic flavors and complexity. With this new distribution agreement, consumers across the state will soon have easier access to these distinctive brews.

For more information about Ginger Cult and to find out where you can enjoy their ginger beers visit www.gingercultgingerbeer.com or email them at drink@gingercultgingerbeer.com.