New Jersey’s Montclair Brewery is rolling out its annual Black History Month beer series, celebrating Black culture, history, and resilience. The headliner this year is the Heritage Barleywine Style Ale, crafted with African-inspired ingredients to honor the Montclair African-American Heritage Foundation (MAAHF) on its 35th anniversary. A portion of beer sales from the Heritage ale will be donated to MAAHF.
“For 35 years, the Montclair African-American Heritage Foundation has been dedicated to uplifting unsung heroes and recognizing the resilience of African American entrepreneurs in our community. To be honored by Montclair Brewery is a profound moment—one that reaffirms our mission and the impact of our journey coming full circle,” said Cathy Stephenson Smith, MAAHF Marketing Chair.
With a bold malt character and warming strength of 8.5% alcohol by volume, this limited-edition Heritage Barleywine Style Ale pays tribute to MAAHF’s mission of nurturing and celebrating Black entrepreneurs, community leaders, and change-makers.
“As a Black-owned brewery, it’s our mission to honor Black history not just in February, but year-round,” says Denise Ford Sawadogo, Chief Brand Officer and co-owner of Montclair Brewery. “Black History Month allows us to highlight the stories, people, and flavors that have shaped our culture and community.”
Montclair Brewery invites the community to celebrate Black History Month through these special releases and events. Learn more about the other beers from the series, such as the Baoboiere Golden ale, Black is Beautiful imperial stout and others right here.
Ibn Wallace, MAAHF Scholarship Co-Chair, adds, “We are truly honored that Montclair Brewery is celebrating our 35th anniversary with a special Heritage Beer. This recognition not only highlights the rich history and impact of the Montclair African-American Heritage Foundation but also reinforces the importance of preserving and uplifting Black heritage in our community. As we celebrate this milestone, we invite supporters to join us in our mission; your contributions help us continue our work in education, cultural preservation, and community empowerment for years to come.”
Heritage Barleywine Style Ale Release Party
The official release takes place on Friday, February 21st, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Montclair Brewery’s taproom at 101 Walnut Street, followed by a live performance from acclaimed artist Leah Jenea from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Known for her soulful blend of R&B, hip-hop, and gospel, Leah has toured with Marsha Ambrosius and performed alongside Musiq Soulchild, Bilal, and Vivian Green. Rhythm & Ribz Smokehouse will also be on site in the outdoor beer garden from 5 to 10 p.m. with mouth-watering, award-winning and authentic Southern-smoked BBQ dishes.
During the month the Montclair taproom will also feature, artwork from local Cameroonian artist, Sergeo Demefack, live music spanning various genres created by those from the African diaspora, such as jazz, R&B, Blues, Soul and Funk with artists and bands like, Nadine Simmons, Gangway, MPack, Leah Jenea and others and food collaborations with Black-owned Brixton Beef and Rhythm & Ribz.
Other beer debuts
Alongside the Heritage Barleywine Style Ale, Montclair Brewery will also debut its Bourbon Vanilla Stout, a deep and malty dark beer with roasted chocolate notes infused with Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans delivering a nutty aroma and flavor notes. These special releases exemplify the brewery’s commitment to storytelling through beer, using flavors and ingredients that connect to the African diaspora.
Leo Sawadogo, head brewer and co-owner, adds, “Brewing runs deep in my West African heritage, and I take great pride in crafting beers that reflect that legacy. The Heritage Barleywine and Bourbon Vanilla Stout are brewed with intention, bringing history and culture into every sip.”
Both the Heritage Barleywine Style Ale and Bourbon Vanilla Stout will be available on draft and in cans as of mid-February for a limited time at the taproom and select distribution partners.
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