Wine Enthusiast names two Massachusetts all-stars on its ’40 Under 40′ list
Jack Hendler and Naomi Levy have plenty to celebrate.
Wine Enthusiast
is celebrating two people who are dominating Boston’s bar scene.
The publication’s annual “40 Under 40” list came out on Thursday, and it recognizes industry professionals making waves in the wine, spirits, cider, and beer world. Among the lineup are two Massachusetts stars: Jack Hendler, co-owner and brewer at Framingham-based Jack’s Abby Brewing; and Naomi Levy, head bartender and beverage director at Boston cocktail lounge Better Sorts Social Club.
“Don’t let his quiet demeanor fool you: Hendler’s gears are always turning as he contemplates his latest innovation, recipe or brand direction to push the brewery forward,” the publication wrote about Hendler, pointing out the award-winning brewery’s dedication to both perfecting lager beers and, with the launch of the Springdale offshoot in 2016, experimenting with other styles. Along with his two brothers, Eric and Sam, Hendler founded Jack’s Abby in 2011, which has since expanded to include a beer hall and kitchen at the Framingham brewery, the Springdale branch, and Track Zero Taproom at North Station.
“Back in 2011 when we started brewing German-inspired lagers, I never thought this company would grow as much as it has,” Hendler shared in an email to Boston.com. “I feel fortunate for the team we have put together who work hard every day to make the best product we can. I’m honored to be recognized on this list among industry leaders. Prost!”
Naomi Levy, one of the city’s most creative bartenders, also made the list, with Wine Enthusiast calling out her fierce drive and notable accomplishments: opening Cambridge’s Hungry Mother in 2008, working her way up to bar manager at the lauded Eastern Standard Bar & Kitchen, and founding consulting company Beyond the Mixing Glass in 2016.
Levy opened Better Sorts Social Club, a cocktail lounge within the Kimpton Nine Zero Hotel, in October 2018. Her culinary-driven drinks are anything but basic — Better Sorts is where guests come to to find cocktails that feature sesame honey, pasta water syrup, and parsley.
“When I’m behind the bar, I’m my best self,” she previously told Boston.com. “I’m nicer, I’m smarter, I’m funnier. And by being my best self, that allows me to give the best service I can possibly give, and that’s the part I love.”
Find the full list of Wine Enthusiast‘s 40 under 40 winners here.
