S2 E39 Abe Furth & Chip’s Pineapple Fascination

Abe Furth of Orono Brewing joins Bob Cutler to talk about Wild Maine’s new pineapple seltzer, how après ski and après golf share the same spirit, and why their seltzers—vodka-based, unsweetened, and Maine-made—have exploded in popularity. With the new flavor set to launch at Birdies and beyond, they celebrate collaboration, local pride, and products that help summer go down easy.

Key Topics

• The Business of Fun – Creating a crushable, social beverage that fits ski season, golf season, and every occasion in between.

• Seltzer Strategy – Why vodka-based, unsweetened seltzers with natural flavors work—and how Wild Maine found its voice and audience.

• Local Roots & Branding – From Wyman’s blueberries to golf-course launches and the cartoon charisma of “Chip,” it’s all about Maine-made joy.

(1:05) Bob and Abe toast with spring whiskey cocktails and strawberry puree, discussing crushable drinks and classic builds.

(6:40) The journey from Woodman’s to Orono Brewing Company, and why squeezing fresh juices changed Orono’s cocktail game in 2005.

(13:30) Wild Maine’s rise: how seltzers became a third of the business and why they’re made with vodka, no sweeteners, and real Maine water.

(22:00) Launching pineapple Wild Maine at Sugarloaf’s Reggae Fest and previewing a new summer golf version featuring Chip the golf ball.

(37:50) Bob and Abe reflect on learning golf as adults, how it mimics the joy of skiing, and why golf with friends (and seltzer) makes every day a win