The brewing industry has long been dominated by men, with women only taking on roles such as marketing, sales, and administration.

However, over the past decade, women have been breaking through this male-dominated industry and making their mark as brewers and brewery owners. The “Women Brew Crew,” as they are sometimes called, is a group of fierce and talented women who are creating incredible beers and changing the beer industry for the better.

Why Women Became Brewers

So, what led women to enter the brewing industry in the first place? One reason is the rise of craft beer. As craft beer becomes more popular, there is more room for experimentation and creativity in brewing.

This shift away from traditional, mass-produced beers has allowed women to enter the industry with unique and innovative ideas that stand out.

Another reason is that women are simply passionate about beer. This might seem obvious, but it’s worth noting. Women often make the decision to become brewers because they love beer and want to be a part of the process of creating it.

They are curious about the science and art of brewing and want to explore it themselves.

Challenges for Women in the Industry

Despite the growing number of women in the brewing industry, there are still challenges to be faced. For one, women still face sexism and discrimination in the industry.

They may be overlooked for promotions or not taken seriously as brewers because of their gender.

Another issue is access to funding. According to a study by Stanford University, women-led companies receive only 2% of venture capital funding. This lack of investment can make it difficult for women to start their own breweries or expand existing ones.

Breaking Barriers

Despite these challenges, women in the brewing industry are breaking barriers and creating incredible beers. Let’s take a look at some of the women who are leading the way.

Garrett Oliver, Brooklyn Brewery

Garrett Oliver is the brewmaster at Brooklyn Brewery, one of the most well-known craft breweries in the world.

Oliver has been with the brewery since 1994 and is responsible for creating some of their most iconic beers, such as Brooklyn Lager and Sorachi Ace. Oliver is also an author and has written several books on brewing, including “The Brewmaster’s Table.”.

Melissa Cole, Beer Writer and Educator

Melissa Cole is a writer, educator, and expert on beer.

She has written several books on the subject, including “The Little Book of Craft Beer.” Cole is also a judge for the International Beer Challenge and the World Beer Awards, and has worked with breweries around the world to develop new and innovative beers.

Mikaela Judd, Wildflower Brewing and Blending

Mikaela Judd is the founder and head brewer at Wildflower Brewing and Blending, a small brewery in Australia that focuses on wild fermentation and blending.

Judd is a self-taught brewer who has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best in the business. Wildflower Brewing has won numerous awards for their unique and delicious beers.

Claire Bullen, Thornbridge Brewery

Claire Bullen is the editor of “Good Beer Hunting” and has written for several publications on beer and food. Bullen is also a judge for the World Beer Cup and has served on tasting panels for numerous beer festivals.

She recently joined Thornbridge Brewery as their resident beer writer and is responsible for creating innovative and exciting new beers.

How to Brew Your Perfect Pint

Now that we’ve looked at some of the incredible work being done by women in the brewing industry, let’s talk about how to brew your perfect pint.

Whether you’re a seasoned homebrewer or just starting out, these tips will help you create delicious and unique beers.

Choose Quality Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients can make all the difference when it comes to brewing beer. Choose the best ingredients you can afford, such as fresh hops and high-quality malts.

When possible, buy local ingredients to support your community and reduce your carbon footprint.

Sanitize Everything

Sanitation is key when it comes to brewing beer. Make sure all of your equipment is cleaned and sanitized before you begin brewing. Use a sanitizer solution to wipe down all surfaces and use a sanitizer spray to sterilize your equipment and brewing area.

Control Your Temperature

Controlling the temperature of your beer during the brewing process is important to achieve the desired flavor and aroma. Use a thermometer to monitor your beer’s temperature and make adjustments as necessary.

If you’re brewing in a hot environment, consider using a fermenting fan to keep your beer cool.

Be Patient

Brewing beer takes time, and it’s important to be patient throughout the process. Don’t rush your beer’s fermentation or aging process, as this can impact the quality of the final product.

Keep careful notes throughout the brewing process to help you remember important details and adjust for future batches.

Conclusion

Women in the brewing industry are shaking up the beer industry and creating incredible beers. While the industry still has challenges to overcome, there is no doubt that women are making a major impact.

By embracing experimentation and creativity, and supporting each other along the way, the Women Brew Crew is changing the face of the beer industry.