The Women Brewers Collective (WBC) is making waves in the beer industry, celebrating International Women’s Day with a unique brew named Hazy Passion. This year, 16 talented women collaborated to craft this special concoction using hazy NEIPA and pineapple passion yeast. The mastermind behind this collective, Lynette Pires, a master brewer at 46 Ounces Brewgarden, established the group in 2021 to provide a supportive community for women in the beer industry.
Creating a Space for Women in Brewing
Pires, with a background in pharmaceuticals, was inspired to venture into brewing after witnessing the art of winemaking and feni production during her upbringing. Fueled by a passion for innovation and a desire to empower more women to join the brewing field, Pires founded WBC to bridge the gap she experienced in her early brewing days. The collective, which began with just five members, has now grown to a thriving community of 26 women, with numbers steadily increasing.
Championing Diversity and Inclusion
Swati Shinde, a WBC member and brewer at Gateway Brewing Co in Mumbai, highlights the rising number of women brewers in India, emphasizing the diverse backgrounds from which they come. Not limited to those with prior experience in beer or wine, women with expertise in biotechnology or chemistry are also finding their place in the brewing industry. With the guidance and support of seasoned brewers like Shinde and Pires, aspiring female brewers are encouraged to explore their potential and contribute to the evolving craft beer landscape.
Embracing Innovation and Local Ingredients
Kajal Manchanda, an innovation brewer at Bira91, underscores the growing interest in craft beer among India’s younger demographic, driven by a curiosity for new flavors and experiences. Drawing from her microbiology background and specialized education in wine brewing and alcohol technology, Manchanda infuses her creations with unique twists inspired by local ingredients and cultural influences. Reflecting on her journey and the evolving craft beer scene in India, Manchanda’s commitment to pushing boundaries and experimenting with flavors shines through in her innovative brews.
Inspired by Tradition and Exploration
As WBC members like Kirti Suryawanshi, the youngest head brewer in the country, and Swati Shinde explore the rich tapestry of local ingredients, they blend tradition with innovation to craft one-of-a-kind brews. By incorporating elements like zini rice, great millet, and pearl millet into their recipes, these women brewers pay homage to India’s culinary diversity and heritage. Experimenting with seasonal ingredients and regional flavors, they create a symphony of tastes that captivate beer enthusiasts and challenge conventional brewing norms.
Fostering Community and Growth
Beyond crafting exceptional brews, WBC serves as a nurturing space where women brewers share ideas, support one another, and collaborate on new projects. Through virtual connections and annual gatherings, members of the collective stay connected, exchanging insights and uplifting each other in their brewing endeavors. Looking ahead, WBC aims to expand its initiatives by offering learning sessions and internships for aspiring brewers, paving the way for a more inclusive and vibrant brewing community.
