OnTap Magazine

South Africa’s diversity creates a landscape where traditions thrive, cultures blend and innovation sparks. The same can be said for the world of brewing in South Africa, a space where science meets artistry. Yet, within this traditionally male-domi- nated domain, the voices and contributions of women have of- ten been overlooked. The tide is turning however, and women are increasingly asserting their presence and expertise in the science of brewing, reshaping the industry in profound ways. “Beer is a beverage enjoyed by many; its lower alcohol content makes it a popular choice for those seeking a more mindful drinking experience. However, in South Africa, the abundance of great beers available to consumers can make it challenging to find a style that aligns with your personal taste preferences,” said Charlene Louw, CEO of BASA. To encourage consumers to be open to a wider variety of beer styles, the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA) and the Brewmistress held a Beer Tasting event in Cape Town on Women’s Day this year. Beer writer and cicerone Lucy Corne took the audience of interested women through the different styles of beer. Corne said that her “goal is to educate women who don't usually drink beer and to see if I can find something they enjoy.” Beer styles vary widely, offering a diverse range of flavours and experiences for every palate. Corne and the sponsors treated the audience with tastings ranging from crisp and refreshing lagers to bold and hoppy IPAs. Local breweries sponsored flagship brews to best illustrate specific styles. The talk by Corne was an easy introduction to the varied styles of beers for newbies, but also reaffirmed the fantastic beers on offer in South Africa. “Beer is a part of South Africa’s culture, and it is wonderful to share our passion for beer with so many enthusiastic women, especially on Women’s Day,” said Louw. Historically, brewing has been deeply intertwined with women's roles in South Africa. In many traditional African cultures, women were the primary brewers of umqombothi, passing down recipes and techniques from generation to generation. This heritage is still alive and should be celebrated – especially as we enter into Heritage Month in September. However, as brewing evolved into a commercial industry, women’s participation waned, relegated to the sidelines as brewing and beer consumption became perceived as male activities. Yet, this narrative is changing, and women are reclaiming their place in the brewing world. The rise of craft beer culture has also provided opportunities for women to shine. Many craft breweries are partly or fully owned by women, and the teams are embracing diversity and inclusion. Beyond the brewery, women are also making significant contributions to the beer industry in other roles. Beer sommeliers, beer writers, and beer judges are showcasing their expertise and elevating the appreciation of beer. By challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers, these women are helping to create a more inclusive and dynamic beer culture. FINDING YOUR BEER STYLE ON WOMEN’S DAY ontapmag.co.za | Spring 2024 | 7