Since 2019, Montclair Brewery has offered special brews in February in honor of Black History Month, and this year is no different. Throughout the month of February, one-of-a-kind, custom-brewed beers will be available honoring local and national Black History icons. Read on to learn more about these exclusive beers.
Husband and wife duo Denise Ford Sawadogo and Leopold ‘Leo’ Sawadogo have turned their passion for brewing into a wildly successful business. Denise and Leo have now called Montclair home for 15+ years. Founded on paper in 2014, Montclair Brewery officially opened for business in 2018. For over 20 years Leo has been brewing batches of beer in his home and gifting bottles to friends and family. Read more about Montclair Brewery’s history here.
“Each year we release a special beer series during Black History Month that are beers inspired by African culture and prominent black figures. Take a look at all of our Black History Month Brews throughout the years,” the owners said.
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This year’s batch is inspired by three individuals. The first is an ode to Aubrey Lewis Sr., a Montclair native and athlete who made history as the first black captain of a Notre Dame sports team. His beer is called the “Aubrey Lewis Brown Ale.” The “ThomSank Independence Ale” was created in honor of Thomas Sankara, a West African leader whose mission was to transform Burkina Faso into a self-sufficient, independent country. The third was inspired by none other than the late and great Kobe Bryant. The “Black Mamba Lager” has the appearance of a stout or porter with the light drinkability of a lager.
This year, Montclair Brewery is giving it its own special can design that will be available in 16 oz cans in the brewery or through partnered bottle shops and restaurants in early March. Growler fills will also be sold.
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Visit the Montclair Brewery website to learn more about the BHM series and stay on the lookout for upcoming events.
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