top of page

PRESS

Baruch Alumni (6 x 4 in).png

From MBA to IPA

August 15, 2024

Co-owner of Montclair Brewery, featured in the Baruch Alumni Magazine!

Read up on the journey of co-owner and alumni, Denise, paving her way to launching Montclair Brewery with Leo. From what started as a dream, to celebrating the 5th anniversary of the brewery. See how both owner's talents came together to create a communal atmosphere at the heart of Montclair, NJ.

drivenout.png

Driven Out: Light The Lamp Productions

July 17, 2024

Montclair meets the movie screen in 'Driven Out', featuring our beer and brand!

 Dan Fried, a local filmmaker and Montclair resident, reached out to us about featuring our products in his film. Along with our products, David Tyree, former NY Giants legend, makes an appearence in this captivating Sci-Fi film. Capturing the essence of our community, this film showcases our products in a whole new light. Check it out and come get some MB gear and beer of your own

podcast.png

Lost in Jersey Podcast

May 21, 2024

Discover the story behind Montclair Brewery, where every beer brewed carries a meaningful tale.

Leo credits his mother for teaching him the art of brewing beer, which was traditionally done by women in West Africa. Denise emphasizes the importance of storytelling in their beer-making process. Each beer at the Montclair Brewery has a unique story behind it, often inspired by personal experiences, travels, or historical events. Learn how Leo and Denise came from different backgrounds to travel this path of creating craft brews for an appreciative community.

ahooga.PNG

Rock the Bells

April 25, 2024

Hip-Hop Radio Legends The Awesome 2 Team Up With Local Brewery For Beer Collaboration

New Jersey's Montclair Brewery salutes the legendary Awesome 2, and celebrates 50 years of Hip-Hop with Salute, a crisp golden ale available on draught, and in cans.

Allagash.jpg

Craft Brewing Business

February 1, 2024

Allagash Brewing re-releases beers for Black History Month that benefit racial equity

As part of an ongoing commitment to increase racial equity in the craft beer industry, and to kick off Black History Month, Allagash Brewing Co. is re-releasing two collaborative beers with Crowns & Hops Brewing Co., the award-winning Black-owned brewery in Inglewood, Calif., and Montclair Brewery, an award-winning Black-owned microbrewery in Montclair, N.J. 

leo.webp

Forbes

February 12, 2024

Racial Equity: A Goal Of Allagash And Black-Owned Breweries

The collaboration is part of an “ongoing commitment to increase racial equity in the craft beer industry,” Maine-based Allagash says. The brewing industry, according to Allagash founder Rob Tod, “will not simply become more inclusive without people taking action and engaging in ongoing initiatives to make change.”

NJ PBS.PNG

NJ PBS

February 17, 2024

Montclair Brewery breaks barriers as Black-owned brewery | NJ Business Beat

The Montclair Brewery is breaking barriers as one of the country’s few Black-owned breweries. Owned and operated by husband and wife Denise Ford-Sawadogo and Leo Sawadogo, the microbrewery and tasting room opened its doors in 2018. Raven Santana visited the brewery to learn more about how the couple turned a passion project into a thriving business and their mission to build community through craft beer.

Verb Saison ale .jpg

BREWBOUND

August 11, 2023

Allagash Brewing Company and Montclair Brewery Collaborate on New Beer: Verb

unnamed (2).png

USA TODAY

September 14, 2023

Craving a craft beer this football season? Eight local breweries in North Jersey to visit

Fall weather, football Sundays and enjoying your favorite fall-inspired beverage at the local brewery. North Jersey has a slew of breweries to choose from across its five counties, each with TVs so you can watch your favorite team with a cold beer in hand.

unnamed.jpg

CBC NEWS

November 28, 2023

Brewery owners say enough is enough with New Jersey's antiquated liquor laws

960x0.webp

Forbes

September 2, 2023

 Lemons Of Southern France Inspire Allagash and Montclair Brewery

France is known as a world leader in fine wines, but it’s the country’s lemons that were the inspiration for a collaboration between New Jersey’s Montclair Brewery and Maine’s Allagash Brewing Company.

2023_7.6_MB-Allagash_TonyT-0132.jpg

Craft Brewing Business

June 19, 2023

Allagash Partnership with Montclair Brewery brings a Verbena Beer to the table.

Allagash Brewing Co. and New Jersey’s Montclair Brewery, teamed up to develop and launch a crushable new beer: Verb; In the spirit of bringing people together.

Salute beer can image prez.png

Brewbound

August 3, 2023

Montclair Brewery Salutes 50 Years of Hip-Hop With an Awesome 2 Beer Collaboration

In honor of Hip-Hop’s 50th Anniversary in August of 2023, we collaborated with New Jersey-based hip-hop DJs “The Awesome 2” on a new beer release, Salute Golden Ale.

black owned breweries gear patrol.jpg

Gear Patrol

June 19, 2023

14 Black-Owned and Black-Led Breweries You Should Know

We are amongst the 1% of Black-owned breweries in America. Check us out alongside 13 other amazing Black-Led breweries. While we are proud to be in this article, we wish there were more Black leaders in the craft beer industry!

Screenshot (24)_edited.jpg

My9 News Now

June 1, 2023

My9 Interview Regarding ABC NJ Regulations

The NJ ABC regulations have been negatively impacting us and 140+ other breweries in the state. My9 NJ Now covered the quickly evolving story, and we were happy to take part in it. #SaveNJBeer is an ongoing effort that we are combating with stories like these.

Montclair-Brewery-1-478x500.png

The Montclair Girl

April 7, 2023

Listed "Must-Visit Outdoor Brewery" by The Montclair Girl

The Montclair Girl lists us as a "Must-Visit Outdoor Brewery in New Jersey"! Come see for yourself! Our beautiful beer garden and outdoor stage is open now to enjoy.

hop culture fragile.jpg

Hop Culture

April 12, 2023

The 37 Best Beers to Drink in Spring 2023

In spring, we want beers that wake our tastebuds, zap us out of hibernation, and flip us from our funk. We’re talking styles like zesty saisons, jammy, tart fruited sours, juicy hazies, crisp Cold IPAs, and lagers all day every day. You may see a stout or two sneak in because we’re still thawing out from winter. But for the most part, during this season, we want lighter, brighter styles. Ones that remind us longer, sunnier days are ahead.

Cheddar news v2-1 no title.png

Cheddar News

February 17, 2023

Visiting One of the Few Black-Owned Breweries in the U.S. - Part 1

Owners of Montclair Brewery Leo and Denise Sawadogo share how they started their own brewery, and some of the struggles and successes they've faced while running a small business during the pandemic. With several dozen beers on tap and original brews you can order in 47 states, Montclair Brewery is joining the growing movement to bring more Black people into the craft beer industry. Click below to watch segment 1!

_edited.jpg

Heritage Radio Beer Sessions

February 14, 2023

Celebrate Black History Month with Montclair Brewery!

Meet Denise Ford Sawadogo, co-owner, general manager, MBA, and marketing extraordinaire, and Leo Sawadogo, head-brewer and master distiller, as Jimmy sits down with this power couple to discuss the state of craft beer in the Black community.
Listen by clicking the button below or find the episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts

Beer is art hop culture.png

Hop Culture Magazine

September 09, 2022

The Top 10 Beers We Drank in August

The Beer Is Art initiative version of Baobiere Golden Ale is featured in the top 10 beers by Hop Culture.com! Click below to read more and see who else made the list!

good beer hunting.png

Good Beer Hunting 

August 7, 2022

Denise Ford Sawadogo of Montclair Brewery

Denise is featured as a guest on this podcast in which she and the host talk about the cultural background of the brewery and her family roots.

lawsvideoscreenshot.PNG

PBS NJ Spotlight News 

July 12, 2022

Do Your Part To Help Us & Other NJ Breweries Today!

Recent regulations from the NJ ABC that limit the number of events breweries can hold among other non-alcohol related restrictions hurt not only breweries, but communities, local businesses, tourism, and consumers. Watch Montclair Brewery, co-owner, Denise and other key NJ stakeholders discuss what the recent NJ brewery mandates mean for their business and many other NJ based breweries.

cusininenoirmag.PNG

cuisinenoirmag.com

March 8, 2022

This Dynamic Couple is Serving Up Beers Rooted in Community and Culture at Montclair Brewery

In Montclair, New Jersey, a brewery that serves craft beers rooted in West African and Caribbean culture might be seen as an unexpected hidden gem. But to the residents of Montclair, this brewery represents a prideful staple in the community. In 2014, the married duo Denise Sawadogo and Leo Sawadogo established Montclair Brewery with the aspiration to create a community-centered hub where people could build connections, all while sipping deliciously crafted beverages.

northjersey article photo.jpg

NorthJersey.com

February 16, 2022

Kobe Bryant beer, and more, released by Montclair Brewery in honor of Black History Month

Every year, Montclair Brewery releases new brews during Black History Month, inspired by Black luminaries.

This year's batch includes beers honoring a basketball legend, an African president and a Montclair icon.

Screenshot (102).png

Craft Brewing Business

February 10, 2022

Montclair Brewery Honors Black Legends with New Beers for Fourth Year in a Row

Continuing their annual tradition, Montclair Brewery is releasing a new Black History Month inspired craft beer series this month.

Screenshot (89).png

TAPintoMontclair

January 23, 2022

Montclair Brewmaster Featured on Discovery+ Series

Master brewer Leo Sawadogo from Monclair Brewery has a new title to his name after winning the master distiller prize on the Discovery+ series "Master Distillers."

50 best beers - beer pour pic.jpg

Gear Patrol

December 31, 2021

The 50 Best Beers of 2021, According to Brewers and Beer Geeks

To find the best new releases of the past year, we asked brewers, cicerones, writers, podcast hosts and other beer professionals to share their personal favorites. These are the 50 beers that debuted and dazzled in 2021.

Montclair Girl Brewery Outside_edited.jp

Montclair Girl

September 7, 2021

Montclair Brewery: A Place of Community + Delicious Beer

Building a stronger community, one beer at a time. That is the mission of Montclair Brewery – a microbrewery located right in the heart of Montclair. From the moment you enter the brewery, you’ll feel a sense of community and passion for local life. While you can find Montclair Brewery’s beers at many local distributors, this tasting room is a must-visit in Montclair. Keep reading to learn more about this Montclair gem, and how Montclair Brewery became a go-to for craft brews in the area.

Screen%20Shot%202020-10-29%20at%205.11_e

Porch Drinking.com

May 12, 2021

8 Uplifting Stories Showcasing Craft Beer’s Entrepreneurial Spirit

Montclair Brewery draws you in with the delicious beers and keeps you there with the stories and great company. With each detail of the space-born of Leo’s passion and Denise’s savvy, pieced together with help of the community, it’s a space for beer lovers and novices alike. Learn more about Montclair Brewery

2906698670.jpeg

NJMonthly

February 24, 2021

Montclair Brewery Debuts New Beers for Black History Month

This year, Denise Ford-Sawadogo and Leo Sawadogo are honoring the late Chadwick Boseman and Gil Noble with special brews.

 

Denise Ford-Sawadogo and her husband Leo are moving into year three of owning and operating Montclair Brewery, and in that time, this pair has not shied away from embracing their cultures. Leo, from West Africa, and Denise, from Jamaica, both tie their backgrounds into the craft beers that they produce.

Screen Shot 2020-12-02 at 2.26.32 PM.png

Washington Post

November 2020

Rebuilding with a Better Connection

Montclair Brewery is one of those places where people go to meet their neighbors. Started in 2018 by Denise Ford Sawadogo and Leopold Sawadogo, a wife and husband team, the New Jersey-based microbrewery quickly become a popular spot in the community. Each night, people would pack in close to the bar to sip bespoke ales and just be together. Then the pandemic hit. Early public health guidelines forced the brewery to close its tasting room, which threatened to push the business to the brink of collapse. But Montclair Brewery adapted—first pivoting to a bottling operation and later, when shelter-in-place restrictions were relaxed, an outdoor beer garden. The business used digital technology to pull off these pivots.

Halloween%20Weekend%202.22_edited.jpg

Montclair Brewery

October 31, 2020

Montclair Brewery Hosts Halloween Market and Movie Nights

Montclair Brewery is set to host a Halloween Weekend event from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1 at 101 Walnut Street in Montclair. The weekend will consist of live music, a Halloween Market, movie night, Day of the Dead Celebration and some new fall brews.

Montclair-e1602535474554.png

NJ Digest

October 13, 2020

2020 Guide: 15 Top Breweries in New Jersey to Visit This Fall

A husband and wife-owned business, Montclair Brewery recently celebrated two years of business in the community. Montclair Brewery offers a range of styles for different tastes, from the Spicy Pineapple Belgian Ale to the Black Mamba Lager. The Black Mamba Lager, one of the brewery’s latest releases, is brewed with dark malts, mimicking the look of a porter or stout but giving it a lighter body. Guests can enjoy their drinks in the beer garden, with live music events through Oct. 18 in honor of the brewery’s anniversary.

Montclair Brewery outdoor seating is first-come, serve. Parties of five or more can make reservations.

Screen Shot 2020-10-17 at 4.50.32 PM.png

Craft Beer Professionals 

October 07, 2020

Women in Craft Beer: Panel Conversation

Denise Ford Sawadogo, co-owner of Montclair Brewery joins Craft Beer Professionals panel, along with four others, to discuss diversity and inclusion in the craft beer industry. Denise discusses her role at Montclair Brewery and details her passion of marketing the beers and interacting with customers. The group dives into the importance of visibility of women in a traditionally male-driven industry.

Screen Shot 2020-10-17 at 4.10.03 PM.png

Hank Zona

September 23, 2020

"Hank Zona and The Grapes Unwrapped" Discusses Montclair Brewery Sorghum beer and the books of Scholastique Mukasonga

Hank Zona and guest Valerie take a look into the history and origins of Sorghum, while enjoying and reviewing Montclair Brewery's own Sorghum beer, The Motherland, and discussing the books of Scholastique Mukasonga. They dive into the West African and Caribbean roots of owners, Leo Sawadogo and Denise-Ford Sawadogo. They also discuss the brewery’s Black is Beautiful Stout made with Baobab, which they describe as “amazing and delicious”.  

Screen Shot 2020-10-16 at 9.19.09 PM.png

Small Business Live

July 23, 2020

Small Business Live Business Spotlight

When millions of small businesses were forced to close due to COVID-19,  Small Business Live was created in just 5 weeks. Small Business Live is a one-day musical experience to raise money for the small businesses hit hardest by COVID-19, with a focus on those run by women and people of color.

Screen Shot 2020-10-16 at 9.04.15 PM.png

NJ Monthly

June 24, 2020

Jersey Brewers Band Together for “Black is Beautiful” Beer Collaboration

With nearly 900 participating breweries, the collaborative effort aims to raise awareness for the injustices people of color face daily. Denise Ford Sawadogo of Montclair Brewery explains the beer's importance.

Screen Shot 2020-10-16 at 9.10.22 PM.png

New Jersey News 12

June 12, 2020

Montclair Brewery to offer outdoor space for beer lovers

The owners of the Montclair Brewery are doing what they can to offer outdoor areas so that they can reopen for business.The brewery will use the front of the building as a paved patio area, and the owners say they want to convert the parking lot into an outdoor space as well.

Screen Shot 2020-10-16 at 8.34.06 PM.png

ZX Ventures: October 

March 06, 2020

Leo Sawadogo Is the Most Interesting Brewer You’ve Never Heard Of

Burkina Faso, West Africa is probably not the first place that comes to your mind when you think of craft beer destinations, but that is where Leo Sawadogo’s story begins. The co-owner and brewmaster of northern New Jersey-based Montclair Brewery is the epitome of a Renaissance man—a 22-year brewing veteran whose past lives include being a professional soccer player, pastry chef, radio personality, and journalist.

Screen Shot 2020-10-16 at 8.19.31 PM.png

NorthJersey.com

February 24, 2020

Montclair Brewery Honors Larry Doby as Part of Black History Month

Montclair Brewery releases Doby Major Leagues Caramel Pale Ale, the newest Black History Month series craft beer in honor of former Negro Leagues and American Leagues baseball player, Larry Doby on Friday February 21, 2020. Doby was the 2nd player to break baseball’s color barrier and the first player of color in the American League. 

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 5.09.21 PM.png

News 12

February 14, 2020

Cheers! Montclair Brewery creates beers to commemorate Black History Month

February is a time to honor those who changed the world by fighting for equal rights for the black community. And Montclair Brewery is doing its part to honor those who fought for equal rights.

“People are coming in specifically asking for the Black History Month beer,” says co-owner Denise Ford-Sawadogo.

​

Screen Shot 2020-10-16 at 8.23.06 PM.png

Spotify: InebriNation

February 12, 2020

Montclair Brewery is featured on "InebriNation" Podcast

Inebrination talks to Howard from Mega Bite Events  to learn about two beer fests that were coming up, and discuss Montclair Brewery being at the beer festivals.

montclair brew press pic_edited.jpg

Best of Essex

December 2, 2019

Montclair Brewery Wins Gold in Best of Essex for Best Brewery/Distillery

Montclair Brewery has won the Gold Medal for Best Brewery/Distillery in the Suburban Essex Best of Essex 2019 Readers' Choice Awards contest.

montclair brewery denise and leo.jpg

Patch.com

October 09, 2019

Montclair Brewery Infuses Local Beer Scene With Diversity

Friday through Sunday, October 11th-13th, the Montclair Brewery will be hosting a series of poetry, music and other entertainment at its taproom at 101 Walnut Street. Owned by Leo and Denise Ford Sawadogo, Montclair Brewery first opened its doors on Oct. 12 last year. Get ready to celebrate an important milestone this weekend, Montclair: the anniversary of the township's first microbrewery.

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 4.29.11 PM.png

Spotify: Two Brewthers

September 19, 2019

"Two Brewthers" Podcast Show Reviews Montclair Brewery Beers

Tony and Ski Brewther Alex Review the beers they had Montclair Brewery, give their descriptor of the brewery, give some shoutouts on the Talking Pints segment, and let you know where they are going next.

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 4.21.41 PM.png

NorthJersey.com

April 20, 2019

Montclair Brewery Named As One of Four Most Unique Breweries

Montclair Brewery offers beers you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the United States. That’s because husband-and-wife owners Leo Sawadogo, who is from West Africa, and Denise Ford Sawadogo, whose family is Jamaican, bring their native flavors to their brews in Montclair.Buying a pint at Montclair Brewery is a way to taste African-influenced brews without buying a plane ticket.

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 4.11.22 PM.png

Spotify: The Questionable Behavior

March 01, 2019

"The Questionable Behavior" Interviews Montclair Brewery on their Authentic Brews

Leo & Denise Sawadogo are husband and wife with very different professional backgrounds who decided to one day join their skills, and follow one of Leo's passions which was to make beer and open a brewery. Leo, born in Burkina Faso in West Africa, was exposed to brewing at a very young age as his mother was brewing beer when he was a child. Denise has a masters degree in marketing and has worked with some major companies throughout her career and now brings that know how to the brewery as the marketing director.

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 3.57.32 PM.png

NorthJersey.com

March 14, 2018

Montclair Brewery, first microbrewery in town, set to open soon

Fans of the brew will appreciate a new place to sip fresh beer in Montclair. The microbrewery and tasting room, Montclair Brewery, will be the first of its kind to open in the township.

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 3.45.04 PM.png

Montclair Local News

January 23, 2018

MONTCLAIR MICROBREWERY WINS APPROVAL FROM TOWNSHIP

Raise your glasses and tip your mugs: The Township Planning Board Monday night gave Montclair’s first microbrewery the approvals it needs to open up shop. The board granted the two variances and the site plan approval that local residents Denise Ford Sawadogo and her husband Leo Sawadogo sought for their startup, the Montclair Brewery.

Essence Mag screenshot.png

Essence Magazine
April 7, 2023

7 Black-Owned Beer Brands To Support

​Not all of us are beer drinkers, but we likely know someone, or a few people, who appreciate a good lager or India pale ale (IPA). If you’re open to trying the beverage, today is the perfect day to do so as it’s National Beer Day. What better way to celebrate than to highlight Black-owned beer brands currently in the market. The Brewers Association’s 2019 survey found that a whopping 88% of brewery owners are white. Among the 22% left, a mere one percent of Black people actually own beer breweries in the United States. 

Cheddar news v2-2 no title.png

Cheddar News

February 17, 2023

Learn How to Pour the Perfect Beer From the Experts at Montclair Brewery - Part 2

If you've ever wanted to learn how to pour the perfect beer, take this lesson from Leo Sawadogo, co-owner of Montclair Brewery, the first Black-owned brewery in New Jersey. Plus, they highlight a few of their 2023 Black History Month beers, including one inspired by the Howe House. Click below to watch segment 2!

CBS news spot Feb 2023.png

CBS2 News

February 4, 2023

Shop Local Saturday: Montclair Brewery

Beer from Montclair Brewery is available at Whole Foods in New York and home delivery in 47 states, CBS2's John Elliott reports.
*Wait for segment after ads!*

inhopswetrust.png

inhopswetrust film

August 15, 2022

Interview with In Hops We Trust Film

"Beer is culture, without culture, beer is simply water." - Leo Sawadogo, Co-Owner and Head Brewer of Montclair Brewery
We couldn't agree more, Leo! We're excited to release the next season 2 episode of In Hops We Trust and be able to highlight this thriving brewery in Montclair, NJ.

1010winswhite.PNG

1010 WINS

July 18, 2022

1010 Wins Discusses the NJ Brewery Restrictions

Radio station 1010 Wins discusses the recent NJ Brewery restrictions with Montclair Brewery owners and what it means to their business.

digitalpub.PNG

The New Brewer: Journal of the Brewers Association

May/June, 2022

Where Culture Is Front and Center

The husband-and-wife team of Leo and Denise Sawadogo started Montclair Brewery in 2018. The brewery gets its name from the neighborhood in which it is located, in a town known for its diverse population and thriving arts community. While many of the guests are from the community, Montclair also has visits from out-of-towners and others who are interested in supporting the first Black-owned brewery in New Jersey. 

Forbes logo.jpg

Forbes.com

February 22, 2022

Fruit Beer Recipes Seem Endless: Mangos, Carrots, Raspberry Jam

New Jersey-based Montclair Brewery will sell at least seven different fruit beers this month. Raspberry holiday jam ale, made with homemade raspberry jam, is the favorite of Denise Ford Sawadogo , the brewery’s co-owner and general manager. “It’s well-balanced and sweet — but not too sweet — and finishes nice and clean,” she says.

Leo with baobab fruit_edited_edited.jpg

New Jersey Monthly

February 14, 2022

Montclair Brewer, Distiller Honors Ancestors With West African Fruit

Leo Sawadogo, the co-owner of Montclair Brewery, uses baobab, a tangy fruit from West Africa, when brewing and distilling. 
It’s all about redemption. Just ask Leo Sawadogo, who reigned supreme in his second run on Moonshiners: Master Distillers.

Screenshot (101).png

Baristanet

February 6, 2022

Montclair Brewery Honors Black Legends with New Beers for Fourth Year in a Row

...The Aubrey Ale is inspired by Montclair, New Jersey’s local icon, Aubrey Lewis Sr. This local legend lived in Montclair his entire life, starting his impressive athletic career at Montclair High School in 1950, which then continued into college where he was the first African American to be a sports captain at Notre Dame University. 

Screenshot (88)_edited.jpg

Montclair Local

January 23, 2022

A 'Shot of Redemption'--Montclair Brewery Owner Takes Prize on 'Master Distiller'

Leo Sawadogo was invited to return to Discovery+ show, but couldn't tell anyone he'd won for months.

Montclair Girl 22 women_edited_edited.jp

Montclair Girl
December 24, 2021

22 Local Women to Watch in 2022

2021 has been packed with uncertainty, challenges, joy, sadness, new opportunities, and more. It forced us to reflect on what we really want out of life both professionally and personally. The world transitioned out of quarantine and back to in-person living (for the most part) this year, which presented opportunities for many – including many of the women on this list. 

IMG_9258.jpg

News 12

June 17, 2021

Montclair Brewery plans several events to commemorate Juneteenth

Some local New Jersey businesses will be celebrating the day and using this moment in history as a teachable one.
Denise Ford Sawadogo co-owns the Montclair Brewery in Montclair with her husband. And while one may not equate beer with learning about history or the strife of disenfranchised groups, the brewery finds ways to incorporate African American experiences within its walls.

IMG_9259.jpg

ABC 7

February 26, 2021

New Jersey brewery honors Black history month with special beer series

Since 2018, New Jersey's Montclair Brewery has distinguished itself by brewing beer that honors the Black culture and the West African and Jamaican roots of its owners, Leo and Denise Sawadogo.

"It's a dream every single day to see everybody sitting here drinking beer that I made. It's just mind-boggling to me," said Leo Sawadogo.

20201229-141700-1___08144910835.jpeg

Patch.com

February 8, 2021

Montclair Brewery Uses Love Of Beer As Platform For Change

A microbrewery in Montclair is continuing its annual tradition of honoring Black History Month with a series of signature beers.

For the third year in a row, the Montclair Brewery will be releasing several new and returning craft beer styles at their tap room at 101 Walnut Street. The Black History Month beers will also be available at some of the brewery's distribution partners.

Screen Shot 2020-11-29 at 8.10.17 PM.png

NJ.com 

November 18, 2020

At this N.J. Brewery, Black Culture is Always on Tap

What part of the world do you first think of when you think of beer?

For Montclair brewer, Leopold Sawadogo, it’s Africa; the continent he was born on and the place where he first learned to brew.

At an early age, his mother taught him all about the brewing process. It made him somewhat of an anomaly in his native land of Burkina Faso, he says. “I’m probably one of the first men from Africa who tried brewing beer,” Sawadogo, who goes by “Leo” for short, jokes. “It’s just not a custom for men to brew beer in those countries.”

Screen Shot 2020-10-17 at 4.40.33 PM.png

Arryved

September 2020

Arryved Client Spotlight: Denise Ford Sawadogo from Montclair Brewery

Montclair is a very special, tight knit community located in the North East corner of New Jersey. To know it is to love it. There’s a little something for everyone to enjoy in Montclair— but the one thing Montclair was missing was a place for people to drink good beer. 

Enter our main players, Denise and Leo Sawadogo. Leo grew up watching his mom brew beer, which brewed his passion to create his own delicious libations. As homebrewers first, Denise and Leo’s basement was filled with the formidable smells of science experiments and projects on the brink of exploding. Determined to take their home brewing to the next level, they put their expertise together and created the first brewery in Montclair, NJ

Screen Shot 2020-11-29 at 8.18.29 PM.png

TapRM

October 21, 2020

Globe-Spanning Ingredients and an Emphasis on Community: the Unique Flavors and Inspirations of Montclair Brewery

Sometimes, craft beer can start to feel like a sea of hazy IPAs and crispy pilsners, so we value the breweries that stand out at TapRm. We love working with breweries who weave novel ingredients, methods, ideas, causes, and stories into their beers, making brews that are exciting and memorable whether they’re inventing a whole new style or executing a classic with simple perfection.

That’s why we’re extra psyched to be helping New Yorkers get their hands on beer from New Jersey brewers Montclair Brewery

Screen Shot 2020-10-17 at 4.04.18 PM.png

Patch.com

September 15, 2020

5 Montclair Restaurants, Bars Team Up To Host Dinner Event

It's not just a five-course dinner. It's a sign of solidarity amid the coronavirus pandemic, a group of Montclair business owners say.

On Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 6 p.m., a "collaborative" dinner between several local restaurants and bars will take place at Just Jake's, 30 Park Street in Montclair. The other participating businesses are Montclair Brewery, Guerriero's Gelato and Cakes (Gelati), Le French Dad Boulangerie, and Paper Plane Coffee Company.

Screen Shot 2020-10-16 at 9.24.01 PM.png

NorthJersey.com

July 23, 2020

Montclair Brewery is One of Three Black Owned Breweries in NJ

In New Jersey, the opening of Montclair Brewery in 2018 sent a ripple through the craft beer scene's pervasive whiteness. Sawadogo points out that New Jersey craft brewery owners, though mostly white, have always been welcoming and supportive in her experience. Indeed, when the Texas brewery Weathered Souls Brewing Company called on breweries nationwide to create versions of their Black Is Beautiful beer and donate the proceeds to organizations that advocate for equality, 29 New Jersey breweries signed on.

Screen Shot 2020-10-16 at 9.15.14 PM.png

Inquirer.com

July 09, 2020

12 New Jersey Craft Breweries Worth a Day Trip

Cans and growlers are available for pickup or delivery to Jersey residents from this brewery, which often takes inspiration from its owners’ West African and Caribbean roots.

Screen Shot 2020-10-16 at 9.06.32 PM.png

NJ Herald

June 18, 2020

What is Juneteenth? New Jersey celebrates holiday commemorating the end of slavery

Leo Sawadogo and Denise Ford Sawadogo, husband-and-wife owners of Montclair Brewery, tell the story of the “laughing barrel” on Juneteenth — the June 19 holiday that celebrates the abolition of slavery.

Screen Shot 2020-10-16 at 8.57.49 PM.png

Barisranet 

April 04, 2020

Supporting Our Strongest Women during COVID-19

The Coronavirus couldn't keep us down! Read on to see how Montclair Brewery has been giving back during this pandemic the best way they know how, supporting their community. 

Screen Shot 2020-10-16 at 8.53.51 PM.png

Spotify: Brewing Banter Podcast

March 05, 2020

Brewery Banter Series - Montclair Brewery

Brewsing Banter Podcast presents... The Brewery Banter Series. This week “ The Legendary Brew Crew” visit Montclair Brewery in Montclair, NJ. Owners Leo & Denise Sawadogo join the crew and talk about their entry into the craft beer industry and the creation and all the happenings of Montclair Brewery as we sample some of their tasty offerings. 

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 5.16.25 PM.png

CraftBeer.com

February 14, 2020

Founders of Montclair Brewery Celebrate Culture Through Craft Beer

Denise-Ford Sawadogo and Leo Sawadogo are the married couple behind New Jersey’s Montclair Brewery. At the foundation of the brewery is a vision of connecting their diverse upbringings and cultures with the Montclair community through beer.

bhm drinks.JPG

Patch.com

February 14, 2020

Montclair Brewery's New Beers Honor Harriet Tubman, Larry Doby

MONTCLAIR, NJ -- The Montclair Brewery is paying tribute to Black History Month with beers that evoke the legacies of Harriet Tubman and Larry Doby.

bhm for newsletter.png

Baristanet

February 4, 2020

Montclair Brewery Celebrates Black History Month With Craft Beer and Music

Montclair Brewery announces they will release several new and returning craft beer styles in honor of Black History Month this February. The line-up includes various beer styles that are connected to the African diaspora and Black History makers, such as former slave turned abolitionist, Harriet Tubman and Baseball Hall of Famer, Larry Doby.

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 4.43.31 PM.png

Brewers Association

November 23, 2019

Montclair Brewery Celebrates "Small Brewery Sunday"

Montclair, NJ. • December 1st, 2019 — The Brewers Association has declared the Sunday after Thanksgiving as Small Brewery Sunday, a new holiday to celebrate small and independent U.S. craft breweries. On December 1, beer lovers are encouraged to show their support for local and independent breweries and seeking the independent craft brewer seal, a certified mark that identifies beer brewed by independent craft brewers.

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 4.29.11 PM.png

Spotify: Two Brewthers

September 19, 2019

"Two Brewthers" Podcast Show Interviews Montclair Brewery Owners

Tony and Ski Brewther Alex take the drive to Montclair Brewery in Montclair, NJ. They talk to owners Leo and Denise about their brewery, the inspiration for naming their beers, how their previous life experiences have set them up for owning and running a brewery, and so much more.

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 4.25.11 PM.png

Patch.com

September 09, 2019

Montclair Brewery is Montclair's First Microbrewery To Hold Outdoor Oktoberfest

Saturday, Sept. 28 from 1:30 to 9:45 p.m the Montclair Brewery will host its day-long Oktoberfest party. Montclair's first microbrewery is gearing up for its inaugural Oktoberfest event, and there will be plenty of tasty libations to sample from, organizers say. Inspired by the annual beer tradition in Munich, Germany, the outdoor festival in the rear parking lot at 101 Walnut Street in Montclair will include 18 beers on tap, live music, food and family-friendly fun.

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 4.14.10 PM.png

Montclair Brewery

April 6, 2019

Montclair Brewery Forges City Green Farms Partnership with Farm House Ale Collaboration Beer

Sunday, April 7th, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. the Montclair Brewery will release its first batch of the City Green Farm House Collab Ale. This Session IPA is a collaborative brew between City Green Farms and Montclair Brewery. A portion of the proceeds from Sunday’s beer sales will be donated to the North Jersey based, non-profit. The City Green Farm House ale will be sold in pints, half pints and 4 ounce flight glasses. Growler fills will be limited to one per person. Members of City Green team will be on site from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 4.00.11 PM.png

NorthJersey.com

February 01, 2019

Montclair Brewery Releases Black History Month Beer Series

Montclair Brewery will release beers inspired by African culture and prominent black figures in February to honor Black History Month. “We are extremely excited to connect our culture to that of craft beer,” said Denise Ford Sawadogo, who co-owns the brewery with her husband, Leo Sawadogo.

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 3.52.26 PM.png

Patch.com

February 20, 2018

Montclair Couple's Proposed Microbrewery Hits Unexpected Snag

A Montclair couple wants to bring the "magic of beer" to the township, with brews inspired by their roots in West Africa and Caribbean...

Screen Shot 2020-10-15 at 3.32.19 PM.png

Baristanet

January 08, 2018

Montclair Brewery, A New Craft Brewery, Coming to Montclair’s Walnut Street

As a child growing up in West Africa, Leo Sawadogo would watch his mother transforming native grains, herbs, and spices into a tasty alcoholic beverage. A week-long process, the custom of home brewing is not uncommon in Burkina Faso (formerly Upper Volta), and his mother, in his eyes, was a master brewer long before the popularity of craft brewing took hold in the US, his adopted country...

bottom of page