I talked to the owner of the Fairfield based Heretic Brewing Co., Jamil Zainasheff. Zainasheff distributes to numerous bars in El Dorado Hills, including Bistro 33, Relish Burger Bar, Art of Cigar, and AJI Japanese Bistro. When asked about the popularity of his brews, Zainasheff recounted this years CA State Fair Commercial Brewer's Competition, stating, "The Evil Twin is one of the more popular beers, and even took home the Silver Prize (IPA Category) at the fair." Zainasheff talked about how there is a heightened awareness amongst craft beer drinkers, yearning to become more educated on beers. And in reference to the micro brew explosion, he stated "85% of breweries produce less than 400 barrels annually," a statistic that reflects the greater Sacramento and Nor Cal beer scene, but also lends credence to the potential for even more growth in the future.

Public perception is everything, and El Dorado Hills is changing. Enyeart’s passion for where he lives goes beyond just Hop House, saying, “El Dorado Hills is giving Folsom residents a reason to come up the hill.” Enyeart is referring to the influx of craft beer centered eateries and pubs in El Dorado Hills, from 36 Handles to Relish Burger Bar, and lest we forget, Mraz Brewing Co., a growing in popularity brewery. I spoke with Mike Mraz, owner and head brewmaster of Mraz Brewing Co. and he talked about the beer centric shift in El Dorado Hills, saying, “The consumer is becoming more educated on craft beer.” Mraz continued, stating “The beer scene in El Dorado Hills is only going to get bigger.” Richard Righton, owner of the popular 36 Handles and Relish Burger Bar, further emphasized the shift in El Dorado Hills from “wine town to beer town.” Righton said, "Craft beer in El Dorado Hills is growing every year," and he highlighted the economic benefits of more planned residential housing and hotels bringing more people into the pubs.

Both Mraz and Righton talked about the growth, and the hope that people will come up the hill from Sacramento and Folsom to experience the beer scene in El Dorado Hills.

Righton emphasized the shift in El Dorado Hills from “wine town to beer town”

El Dorado Hills, known for its fine dining and wine, has now created a place for craft beer enthusiasts and the like. Enyeart spoke on his vision for Hop House, saying, “We will be open late. There are a lot of retailers and restaurant workers that don’t have anywhere to gather after their shift. Why not here!” It didn’t take long for that concept to take root, as a few employees from Sellands Market Cafe meandered over after their shift for some craft brew the night of the soft opening. Enyeart is creating community, and it starts with the people you see everyday.