Ryan Witter-Merithew and I first met in 2007. Then, as I prepared to leave my brewing role in Denmark in 2009, he arrived to take my place. We lived and brewed together on the island of Fanø for a month—long days of shared labor, quiet meals, and the beginning of a friendship that has spanned continents and decades.

In that brief overlap, we created Grassroots Brewing as a conduit—an idea that might allow us both to remain creatively tethered to Denmark, even from afar. Together, we have made beers like Twilight of the Idols, Birth of Tragedy, Viola Sofia, Six Years, and so many more. I’ve often believed that my methodical approach gave shape to Ryan’s imagination—and that his inventiveness helped loosen my edges.

Fifteen years later, Ryan has returned. We brewed this Imperial Stout—the largest, most sugar-laden beer we have ever produced. It marks not only our anniversary but also Ryan’s own return to Hill Farmstead as Chief Operating Officer. He is a creative force and a dear friend. This beer is for the journey—circular, persistent, unfinished.

Shaun Hill