By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
A unique bridge has been built between Denver and Serbia, not through traditional diplomacy, but through a shared passion for craft fermentation. Denver Beer Co. and Ravangrad Pivara have announced a cross-continental collaboration titled ‘From Sombor to Denver’, a Cold IPA specifically crafted to honor the connection between the Mile High City and the hometown of superstar Nikola Jokic.
The partnership began when Charlie Berger, co-founder of Denver Beer Co., reached out to Branko Popovic, the proprietor of Ravangrad Pivara in Sombor. Popovic actually studied brewing and biotechnology in Colorado a decade ago, drawing his original inspiration for his Serbian brewery from the state’s vibrant taproom culture.
As the 2026 NBA Playoffs, presented by Google, draw near, this project serves as a literal toast to the cultural exchange sparked by the athlete’s career. Denver Beer Co. has already launched pre-orders for six-packs on its website and plans to feature the brew during watch parties at all five of its Front Range taprooms. Popovic is scheduled to return to Colorado during the first round of the postseason to brew a fresh batch, ensuring the supply lasts for a potentially deep run toward the Finals.
“It’s incredible how the game has basically turned Sombor into a sister city for us,” said Berger. “To connect with the all-star brewers in Jokić’s hometown feels like the perfect way to bridge the gap between Colorado and Serbia.”
This isn’t the first tribute of its kind. In 2024, Greeley’s WeldWerks Brewing created ‘Sombor Shuffle’, a hazy IPA honoring the first of what would eventually be three season MVP awards for the Joker.