Hop'n Gator Malt Liquor 12 Oz Tab Top Can

Hop'n Gator: Pittsburgh Brewing Co.'s Malt Liquor

This 12-ounce tab-top can showcases Hop'n Gator, a malt liquor produced by the Pittsburgh Brewing Company in Pittsburgh, PA. Introduced in 1969, it's considered a pioneering example of a 'malternative' beverage—a precursor to the many beer-based mixes that followed. Interestingly, it was reportedly developed by Robert Cade, the creator of Gatorade, who allegedly fermented the sports drink in his own lab before licensing the production to Pittsburgh Brewing. The can's design likely reflects the era of its production, likely sometime between 1969 and 1976, when Pittsburgh Brewing ceased production. While specific design variations exist, they all represent a fascinating piece of brewing history and a collectible item for enthusiasts of vintage beer cans. The can itself, a testament to Pittsburgh Brewing's history of innovation—they were known for firsts such as the snap-top can and the first canned draft beer.