Our Story

 The Past

The Village Butcher was founded in 1972 by George and Linda Racicot, both of whom have long family history in the Upper Valley. George learned to cut meat at the age of 15, and after a long stint elsewhere in town, took up residence at a new structure next to Gillngham’s General store, in the heart of Woodstock VT.  Specializing in cut to order meats and down home cooking, George and Linda (and her sisters) built an institution in the area and became well known for their meats and food. In 2003, Josh Coyle joined the team and began an apprenticeship with George learning the trade of meat cutting first hand. Josh grew in his role, and his skills, over the years, and built a strong network of customers who appreciated his nuance and highly personalized service. 

The Present

Born and bred Bostonians with a long history in Vermont, the Berams took over the Village Butcher from George and Linda in the spring of 2021. With extensive experience in hospitality, and food service (and plenty of other industries!), the Berams had been looking for the right place to set up shop for a number of years, while raising two small children in Boston. They knew the story of George and Linda and were saddened to think that the doors could close forever on this storied chapter of Woodstock. Caught in the crossroads of their own lives, they saw an opportunity for real change and adventure and jumped in with both feet! 

Today, the shop carries on the traditions of cut-to-order and grind-to-order meats, a growing selection of locally sourced meats, and a commitment to the highest quality foods out their kitchen. Josh Coyle has taken the reigns as head butcher, making an array of house-made sausages, tortierres, and other foods. The deli cranks out fantastic sandwiches, and on the retail floor you can find anything from the best Vermont cheeses, a curated wine selection from around the globe, and many wonderful Vermont-made syrup and products. With reverence for the past and excitement about the future, we are thrilled to be serving our community!