Lady Lager: Brewing to The Beat of Her Own Drum
Hello, my name is Alisa Bowens-Mercado, and I am the founder and owner of the first Black-woman owned beer brand in Connecticut history - Rhythm Brewing Company. In the United States, the craft beer revolution got started in the 1960's, and it has since exploded. The brewing industry has always been dominated by white men. This sparked my entrepreneurial mindset to become the first Black-Women owned Brew master.
Growing up with my grandmother, we shared a love for drinking and dancing. Due to these experiences, I managed to gain the inspiration to create a Lager that I could relate to my life and my heritage. The name Rhythm comes from my background and love for salsa dancing. I have been a professional salsa dancer for 22 years and own my own salsa studio, Alisa’s house of Salsa. As for my heritage, my special lager utilizes hops imported from South Africa. The fact that my lager is unfiltered sets it apart from other lagers who filter their flavor. This allows us to, “Keep the goodness in.”
I've been able to grow the Rhythm Brewing Company over the past couple of years by marketing my brand, attending countless beer festivals, and organizing a number of beers tasting events. As my company grew, I was able to partner with companies like Samuel Adams, Two Roads, Hog River Brewing Co., and Hop Culture Farms & Brew Co. My beer was only sold in and around the New Haven region but has recently been expanded due to our partnership with Brescome Barton Distributing Company. This partner has allowed Rhythm to expand across the entire state of Connecticut.
The phrase "Lady Lager" has gained widespread recognition in the beverage sector as a result of Rhythm's popularity. I want to express my gratitude to the companies who have taken the time to take part in making history with Rhythm Brewing Company. I would also like to express my gratitude to everyone who has bought our tasty lager since you are vital to the continuation of my goal.