A coastal North County resident, skateboarding legend Tony Hawk is regularly spotted throughout San Diego. Now, his beer will be, as well. Hawk recently went beyond his investor status with Oceanside’s Black Plague Brewing, lending his name as well as that of his business, Birdhouse Skateboards, on a collaboration beer that debuted over the weekend.
Dubbed “Tony Hawps IPA”, it is brewed with Simcoe and Amarillo hops, then dry-hopped with Citra and Centennial. Citrusy in aroma and piney on the palate, it is available at Black Plague’s tasting room as well as numerous retail locations throughout San Diego County. Hawk lent his preference and opinions during the process.
“Tony Hawk is such an icon. We wanted to partner with him to create something authentic to connect with skate fans and skateboarders,” says Black Plague president Jordan Hoffart, who is no stranger to the skateboarding subculture. In addition to skating professionally, the Canadian transplant opened Black Plague in 2017 with backing from other industry pros.
“Tony’s level of dedication to his craft is unmatched and that is something that unites us in our journey, as well,” says Hoffart. “The beer needed to be light and crushable after a skate session while also having enough heft to be your go-to when you are ready to party.”
Black Plague’s reputation as a brewery for skateboarders by skateboarders is well-earned. Industry veteran and longtime skateboard enthusiast Bill Batten (who is heading brewing operations for upcoming brewpub TapRoom Beer Co.) has been closely involved with the operation since its inception. This is as authentic of a Hawk beer collaboration beer as a true fan could hope for.
“I never imagined I’d get to help ‘design’ a new beer, but my life keeps taking unexpected and delightful turns,” says Hawk. “This beer packs a ton of flavor.”