By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – Amidst the growing bustle of Pittsboro, one local business has become a cornerstone of community gathering: Havoc Brewing Company. Helmed by Michael Pipkin, the brewery has evolved from a small, local venture to a regional success story, with its beers distributed as far as Morehead City. The 3 Guys from Pittsboro having lunch discussed the evolution of Havoc. Pipkin reflects on the brewery’s rapid growth, its role as a community hub, and the exciting new projects on the horizon, including a partnership with Angus Barn and the release of their latest barrel-aged brews.
Brewing Growth and Community Spirit
A Flourishing Business Model
From the moment Havoc Brewing opened its doors, it appeared that it would become a cherished part of Pittsboro. What began as a local taproom has rapidly expanded into a successful wholesale business, with Pipkin and his team distributing their beers to grocery stores like Lowes Foods and independent retailers all the way out to Morehead City.
“Pittsboro is what keeps the taproom running,” says Pipkin. “We know that 90 percent of our customers live within a few miles of here, which is incredible. But it’s also exciting to see our products out there in the world.” The brewery’s success has not only been in attracting local residents but also in pulling visitors from surrounding towns and cities, including Chapel Hill, Fayetteville, and even Asheville.
A Hub for Gatherings
Havoc Brewing has quickly become more than just a place to grab a beer. It has transformed into a central meeting spot, where people come together to celebrate life’s moments—big and small. From weddings to memorials, the brewery’s taproom has hosted a variety of events that foster community connection.
One of the most memorable events for Pipkin was celebrating the life of Officer Mike Mineer, who tragically passed away shortly after rekindling a romance with his wife on Havoc’s patio during the brewery’s opening weekend. “It was an honor to be part of something so meaningful,” recalls Pipkin. “It’s why we started our Beer Forward program, which encourages people to buy beers for others as a way of paying it forward.” Whether it’s memorials, weddings, or everyday socializing, Havoc Brewing has become an integral part of Pittsboro’s social fabric.
Crafting a Unique Beer Experience
Award-Winning Brews
Havoc Brewing’s reputation has grown not just through word of mouth but through the recognition of its craft. The brewery has earned numerous awards for its distinctive beers, including two bronze medals at prestigious competitions—one for their hazy IPA and another for their brown ale.
“The awards are great,” says Pipkin, “but what really matters is creating something that brings people together.” For Pipkin, brewing is about more than just the final product; it’s about fostering a sense of community. “The best feeling is seeing people come here, share a drink, and build memories,” he adds.
The Stories Behind the Beer Names
Each of Havoc’s beers carries a unique story, reflecting either personal experiences or clever, sometimes humorous, wordplay. One such beer, “Havoc Actual,” is named after Pipkin’s business partner, Troy Benton, whose call sign during his time in Afghanistan was “Havoc Actual.”
“Sometimes, it’s just about having fun,” Pipkin admits. For example, their upcoming German wheat beer is playfully called “Al He,” a lighthearted nod to the common mispronunciation of the German greeting “Aloha.”
Pipkin also delights in creating beers that push the boundaries of creativity, often incorporating personal elements or inside jokes. “I’m a dad joke kind of guy,” he laughs. “If I can sneak in a pun or a play on words, I will.”
Expanding Horizons: Coffee, Partnerships, and Barrel-Aging
More Than Just Beer
In addition to brewing award-winning beers, Havoc Brewing has diversified its offerings by opening a coffee bar last year. Partnering with local roaster in Hillsborough, the brewery now serves coffee starting at 7 a.m. on weekdays. “We saw people coming in to work but hesitant to grab a beer in the middle of the day, so we thought, why not offer coffee?” explains Pipkin.
The coffee bar has become a favorite for local business meetings and casual hangouts. The brewery’s Wi-Fi and comfortable setting make it a go-to spot for remote workers and coffee enthusiasts alike.
Upcoming Collaborations
The brewery is also making moves in the culinary world. One of the most exciting developments is Havoc’s upcoming partnership with the iconic Angus Barn. “We’re really excited about this,” says Pipkin. “Angus Barn has such a loyal following, and it’s an incredible opportunity for us to showcase our beer to a broader audience.”
In addition, Havoc Brewing has an ongoing partnership with Doherty’s, a local restaurant group for which the brewery produces an exclusive Irish Red ale. “It’s been a great relationship,” Pipkin shares. “We love that we can offer something special to our partners while still staying true to our roots here in Pittsboro.”
Barrel-Aged Innovation
One of the most anticipated releases from Havoc Brewing is its upcoming barrel-aged pumpkin ale. The brewery began a barrel-aging program last year, and the fruits of that labor are about to be enjoyed by beer lovers in Pittsboro and beyond.
“We took our Imperial Pumpkin Ale and aged it in bourbon barrels for a year,” explains Pipkin. The result? A beer that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin pie with the warmth of bourbon, clocking in at a hefty 12% ABV. “It smells incredible—like a bourbon pumpkin pie,” he adds.
The barrel-aged pumpkin ale will be available in limited quantities, with only six kegs going out to wholesale customers and the rest reserved for the taproom. “It’s going to be something special,” Pipkin promises.
Building a Family-Friendly Destination
A Place for Everyone
Havoc Brewing is known not only for its beer and coffee but also for being a family-friendly establishment. “We’re fiercely family-friendly and dog-friendly, as long as the dogs are well-behaved,” says Pipkin with a smile.
The brewery has become a popular spot for families to gather, often with kids in tow. “There’s something special about seeing families come in, parents enjoying a beer, and kids running around,” says Pipkin. While the brewery no longer offers crayons (a decision Pipkin laughs about), it remains a welcoming place for people of all ages.
The brewery also supports local youth organizations, including a baseball team that decided to name themselves “Havoc” after frequenting the brewery with their parents. “That was one of the coolest things,” Pipkin says. “It shows how much this place has become a part of people’s lives.”
Looking Toward the Future
Big Dreams for a Small Town Brewery
When Havoc Brewing first opened its doors, Pipkin had big dreams, but even he couldn’t have predicted the level of success the brewery has achieved in such a short time. “We had a vision, but this has surpassed our expectations,” he admits. “I want to create a brewery empire that Pittsboro can be proud of.”
Pipkin is clear about his ambitions: He wants Havoc Brewing to grow into a household name, known far beyond the borders of North Carolina. “If in 15 years we’re mentioned in the same breath as Sierra Nevada or New Belgium, I won’t be disappointed,” he says. But at the heart of it, Pipkin remains grounded in the community that built Havoc.
“Pittsboro will always be home,” he says. “No matter how big we grow, this is where it all started, and this is where our heart will always be.”
A Brewery Built on Passion and Community
Havoc Brewing’s rapid growth, both as a local hangout and a wholesale distributor, speaks to the passion and dedication of Michael Pipkin and his team. From barrel-aged experiments to exciting new partnerships, Havoc Brewing is constantly evolving while staying rooted in its mission to bring people together. As Pipkin puts it, “At the end of the day, it’s about making something people love and creating a space where they can connect.”
Watch on YouTube – 3 Guys from Pittsboro having lunch talk with Michael Pipkin at Havoc – 9.10.24
00:14 Michael Pipkin talks about the growth of beer brewing in Pittsboro.
They are expanding their wholesale business and moving into grocery stores.
Despite the growth, Pittsboro remains the backbone of their business.
01:58 Havoc has hosted a variety of significant events and celebrations.
One memorable event was the celebration of the life of Officer Mike Mineer
St. Patrick’s Day was also a major highlight with a memorable party and drone footage.
03:41 Creating a sense of community through beer
People gather around, happy with beer in hand
Beer names inspired by personal connections and humor
05:18 Local kids baseball team named after Havoc
Havoc inspired a local kids baseball team to name themselves after the brewery, showing the impact of the brewery’s name and presence in the community.
Havoc is releasing a special beer next week, the result of their barrel aging program, featuring a bourbon barrel-aged imperial pumpkin ale with 9.2% alcohol, which has been aged for a year.
06:50 Goal is to create a brewery empire
Partnership with Angus Barn and plans for statewide distribution
Aspires for global recognition like Sierra Nevada or Fat Tire
08:26 Havoc is a family and dog-friendly place, and the owners are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment.
The owners aim to create a family-friendly and dog-friendly environment at Havoc, as long as the dogs are friendly.
They have also opened a coffee bar, which has attracted business meetings due to its hassle-free atmosphere.
10:12 Creating a welcoming space for people to work and enjoy coffee
Collaborated with a local roaster for coffee bar setup
Open at 7 AM on weekdays, offer live music on weekends, and host food trucks regularly
11:38 Limiting frequency of visits and praise for Tacos Brazo
Restaurants in Pittsboro faced challenges with water issues hampering new constructions.
Pittsboro enjoys having food trucks on Mondays when other places are closed.