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(Courtesy Samuel Adams)
Brewing the American Dream is the philanthropic arm of Samuel Adams aimed at providing mentorship and capital to food & beverage entrepreneurs nationwide. Each year the Brewing & Business Experienceship arm of the program invites brewers nationwide to apply for the chance to win unparalleled access to brewing and business resources from experts at Samuel Adams, including founder and brewer Jim Koch.
One lucky craft brewer is selected to come to the Samuel Adams Boston Brewery, work side-by-side with a team of mentors and collaborate on a specialty beer with Samuel Adams. The winner will also travel to the preeminent craft beer event of the year, the Great American Beer Festival, to shadow and experience alongside Samuel Adams.
The 2024 Brewing & Business Experienceship was deliberated live at the annual Crafting Dreams Beer Bash in by an enthusiastic audience and group of experts at the Crafting Dreams Beer Bash in Boston.
This unique event, held on June 7th, featured Crowns & Hops Brewing and five other finalists from across the nation, each pouring a beer of choice and sharing personal business stories. Following an immersion into a passionate community of entrepreneurs, attendees were invited to cast a vote for one exceptional brewer. The final tally played a key role in Samuel Adams’ ultimate selection.
And this year’s recipient is Inglewood, California-based Crowns & Hops Brewing, a Black-owned, woman-owned, and veteran-owned brewery co-founded by Beny Ashburn and Teo Hunter in 2016.
“Each year, this program moves us deeply as we witness the immense talent that lives within the craft beer industry, and Crowns & Hops is a shining example of it,” said Jim Koch, founder and brewer of Samuel Adams….
“Their infectious energy, dedication, and passion for growth stood out to us. These qualities are vital to keeping the beating heart of the craft beer movement strong for many years to come. Beny and Teo’s commitment to furthering the innovation and inclusivity of craft beer demonstrates the spirit and drive that will continue to invigorate our industry.
At the Crafting Dreams Beer Bash, Crowns & Hops Brewing showcased “The Dopest” Hazy IPA, a 6,8% ABV double dry hopped India Pale Ale bursting with notes of citrus and sweet fruit, and a smooth and creamy mouthfeel.
“This recognition from Brewing the American Dream is a remarkable milestone as we look to evolve our business to new heights,” said Beny Ashburn, co-founder of Crowns & Hops. “Teo and I are excited that this opportunity will not only enhance our ability for continued impact locally, but also propel us towards the broader footprint we’ve always envisioned.”
In the coming months, Crowns & Hops will join Samuel Adams in Denver for the Great American Beer Festival and in Boston to create a special collaboration brew. Details on the release date and availability in Boston and Inglewood taprooms will be announced at a later time.
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