The Inspiration Behind Second Sip
The first sip of a beer delivers an explosion of flavor. Infinitely refreshing, the first sip is full of adventure, wonder, and romance. It offers a glimpse into a world of possibilities and potential. Many would argue that the first sip of a beer is the best sip, but any skilled brewer will tell you that you can not truly know a beer from the first sip alone.
The second sip reveals so much more about a beer. As the initial rush of intensity fades, more subtle, nuanced flavors and aromas present themselves. The beer warms slightly, and flavors and aromas that were previously hidden begin to emerge. The second sip begins to expose the soul of the beer, both the good and the bad. Tiny flaws that were imperceptible during that first sip can make their presence known, or the truly exceptional qualities of a great beer can be more fully appreciated with the second sip. While the first sip is exhilarating, the second sip is more pensive and contemplative.
Harnessing that Inspiration to Help Our Clients
The fast-paced world of modern craft brewing attracts very passionate people - craft beer enthusiasts, experimental homebrewers, anti-corporate iconoclasts, and more - all with the dream of turning their passion into a successful and sustainable business. Intoxicated by the possibilities and potential of that first sip, many of these individuals open breweries only to face unforeseen challenges. The romantic vision of craft brewing fades, and the realities of excise tax reports, aluminum can shortages, and hop contracts set in. Even seasoned industry veterans are not immune to the challenges of increased competition, shifting consumer tastes, and smart growth.
Second Sip Beverage Consulting offers clients a comprehensive range of consulting services, providing turnkey craft beverage solutions to assist in navigating the many challenges of the modern craft beverage landscape. Our services can provide our clients with the tools needed for sustained success. The Second Sip approach is thoughtful and deliberate, designed to marry the passion of our clients with the realities of the industry by delivering tangible results.
The Siblings Behind Second Sip
Brian Quinn, Co-Founder
Brian is an hardcore foodie, classic sci-fi aficionado, and lover of all things fermented. After completing his Master's Degree in History, he shifted focus towards craft beer and brewing. Brian studied brewing theory at the Siebel Institute in Chicago and the Doemens Academy in Munich, completing the rigorous WBA Master Brewer Program in 2015. He received his Advanced Cicerone certification in 2019. Brian has gained valuable experience working in both small and large craft breweries, and has overseen start-up brewery builds and brewery expansions in his years working in craft beer. He currently serves as the Head Brewer and Director of Brewery Operations at Town Brewing Co. in Charlotte, NC where he and his team have produced award winning beers, including back to back GABF Golds for Contemporary Gose - Cruise to Nowhere.
Colleen Quinn, Co-Founder
Colleen is an avid traveler and diehard sports fan (go Heels!) who enjoys discovering great drinks with great people. After completing her degree in Business Administration, she drove Corporate Strategy for a Fortune 500 company. After that, Colleen decided to bring her Strategy skills to the craft beer world, joining Craft Brew Alliance in Portland, OR. There she analyzed the industry, developed strategy, and worked with a portfolio of national, regional, and local craft breweries. She lead the acquisitions of three East-coast craft breweries and subsequently managed them. Most recently, Colleen was Head of Strategy for Anheuser Busch’s craft business. She left with the goal of helping the growing number of craft breweries, distilleries, cideries, and seltzeries around the US.
Our Values
Enthusiastic
We love the passion in craft and the energy of owners. We treat our clients’ businesses like they are our own and enthusiastically jump all in to help them achieve their goals.
Deliberate
We know the industry is complex and each client is different. As such we take thoughtful approach, exploring many options to land on the best solution to our clients’ problems.
Collaborative
Craft is built on unparalleled collaboration. We embrace that fully - getting to know our clients and operating side by side with them as one team to deliver the highest impact.
Results Oriented
Talk is cheap. Our approach focuses on delivering tangible results. We advise our clients with the goal of finding the best personalized solutions for their business, helping them to reap the full benefits of their investment.