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(Sam Bonacci, MassLive.com)

WESTMINSTER — The retail store at the Wachusett Brewing Company in Westminster will be on probation for one year following a recent underage alcohol buying sting.

“It’s just an unfortunate situation and I think they learned from it," said Liquor Commission Chairman Gary McDonald, of the sting leading up to Monday night's decision. “We’ve been consistent with the first-time offender to give them a year to keep their nose clean."

As a part of the undercover operation by Hubbardston police, two underage people purchased a six-pack of the Larry Imperial IPA, McDonald said. The stings are carried out three to four times a year at area businesses, said McDonald, with police from different communities coming in so they are not recognized.

“(Wachusett has) been in business five years and this is the first one,” said McDonald of the retail store.

The retail store sells the brewery's beer in growlers, 32-ounce bombers, six and twelve packs in bottles and cans. The store also sells merchandise, including pint glasses and clothing branded with the Wachusett logo.

The retail store's license to sell liquor is separate from the brewery's license and any sanctions as a result of further violations would not affect the company's ability to brew, said McDonald.

Representatives for Wachusett Brewery could not immediately be reached for comment.