“With 4-Across, non-alcoholic drink with a flavor reminiscent of beer”

A friend found something wild in yesterday’s New York Times crossword puzzle: “Hop Water” was the answer to a clue!

When I launched the first craft-brewed hop water over a decade ago, it was a category of one. My biggest hope then was that people would even understand what it was. To see it grow into a vibrant, competitive category of many has been incredibly gratifying. But to find it so recognizable that it’s now a New York Times crossword clue? That’s something I never saw coming.

What an incredible feeling to see a passion project become part of the cultural lexicon.

My name is Paul Tecker and I am a long time home brewer, craft beer enthusiast and self-proclaimed hop aficionado. For nearly 15 years, I have been involved with the thriving natural and organic beverage industry and continue to be convinced that the future is bright for healthier food and beverages. One of my hobbies is growing hops in my back yard for home brewing. This led to the creation of my H2OPS brand hop water. Although I was born in the Pacific Northwest (where hops flourish) I now make my home in Southern California with my wife and two growing boys.