Whole Foods is the latest local grocer to add draft beer to the shopping experience. Whether customers are looking to fill a growler to take home or enjoy a beer while shopping or dining in the cafe, they now have 12 taps to choose from.

Each beer is selected by buyer Chris Tolbert, a Certified Cicerone. Tolbert aims to have a well-rounded selection that offers a little something for everyone, and the taps rotate frequently. Customers will find IPAs, porters and stouts as well as several seasonal and regional beers. There will always be at least one gluten-free cider available as well.

“Because each store’s buyer has the ability to select what’s served in the store we really have the ability to tailor our selection to our customers,” said marketing team leader Erin McNally. “We encourage their feedback as we seek to provide them with the best possible selection.”

Located behind the cheese counter, the growler fill station rounds out the beer, wine and cheese section of the store. A $4 deposit is required for the growlers, and they are available in 32- or 64-ounce sizes. Sampling is encouraged, McNally said.

“We now have two staff members who are certified cheese professionals as well as a Sommelier and Certified Cicerone,” she said. “This allows us to better serve our customers and offer some really great suggestions for pairings.”

McNally says that she is in the process of setting up several beer events for the fall, including a beer dinner and a fall festival showcasing seasonal beers. For now, customers are invited to attend Grooves, Brews and Bites on Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m. to enjoy music and samples. Whole Foods is also linked to the TapHunter app, an app which allows users to see an updated listing of what the store has on draft.

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