Mass Brewery Hits Jackpot with Best-Selling Drake Maye-Themed Beer
In Marshfield, Stellwagen Beer Company has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity with its latest creation, “Love the Drake.” This dry-hopped lager, boasting an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.6%, sold out in just three days. Contrary to its unassuming nature, this beer has sparked immense interest, primarily due to its connection to football and a beloved television reference.
Origins of “Love the Drake”
The inspiration for “Love the Drake” came from a brainstorming session at Stellwagen. Head of sales, Eddie Letsche, originally intended the name for an IPA. However, the brewery team decided that a lager would be more fitting for the football season. The name pays homage to a classic “Seinfeld” scene where characters discuss their feelings about a person named Drake, and ties it to a quarterback who resonates with New England Patriots fans.
Clever Design and Avoiding Copyright Issues
The beer can art incorporates elements from the “Seinfeld” logo without infringing on any copyrights, a concern for the creative team led by Annika Phillips. Letsche humorously noted that if they ever received a cease-and-desist from “Seinfeld” creator Larry David, it would be framed.
Unprecedented Demand
Following its initial release late in 2024, “Love the Drake” returned for the Patriots’ 2025 season. Social media buzz skyrocketed, with consumers eagerly seeking the limited supply. Stellwagen posted frequent updates on the beer’s availability, which drove demand to unprecedented levels.
- First release: Late 2024
- Most recent run: Just before the Patriots’ regular-season finale against the Miami Dolphins
- Current ABV: 4.6%
Rapid Sales and Production Challenges
The response from customers has been overwhelming. During the latest brewing, all inventory was canned; kegging was abandoned due to the rush for cans. Some shipments in Central and Eastern Massachusetts sold out soon after delivery, often within minutes of opening.
The brewery faces the challenge of meeting high demand without compromising quality. Stellwagen has received inquiries as far away as Florida, although shipping is not an option. Instead, they focus on maintaining their reputation while producing “Love the Drake” responsibly.
Future of “Love the Drake”
Despite their success with “Love the Drake,” Stellwagen continues to offer a variety of other beers, including their popular Stellwagen IPA and light lagers. The brewery’s eight-year journey has been marked by steady growth, but “Love the Drake” has significantly increased their visibility.
Stellwagen Beer Company remains committed to providing quality brews and meeting demand responsibly. Fans are encouraged to follow their social media channels for updates on availability as this unique lager continues to capture the hearts of beer enthusiasts.
