A Story Behind Each Beer
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.
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Leo and Denise, partners in both marriage and business, are the driving forces behind Montclair Brewery, a microbrewery and tasting room that emerged from Leo’s longstanding passion for home brewing and hosting. For over a decade, Leo crafted beer batches in the comfort of his home, delighting friends and family with his creations.
The brewery officially took root in 2014, following three years of meticulous planning. Securing a lease for their current premises marked a significant milestone after extensive deliberation. Nearly a year of diligent construction ensued, culminating in the grand opening of our doors in October 2018 and has been a favorite for locals.
Summary
Introduction
In this podcast episode, the hosts interview Denise and Leo from the Montclair Brewery. They discuss the unique stories behind each beer brewed at the Montclair Brewery and the sense of community fostered by the owners.
Background and Origin Story
Leo shares his background in radio and television in Africa and Canada before transitioning to brewing beer in Jersey City. He credits his mother for teaching him the art of brewing beer, which was traditionally done by women in West Africa.
Meeting and Transition to Montclair
Denise, a native New Yorker, met Leo in Jersey City, where they eventually got married. Leo’s passion for brewing led them to move to Montclair, where they established the Montclair Brewery in 2016.
Beer Brewing and Stories
Leo and Denise emphasize 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.
Events and Community Engagement
The Montclair Brewery hosts a variety of events, including live music, karaoke nights, and blues and brews sessions. They also offer tours of the brewery and engage with the community through farmers markets and beer festivals.
Customer Experience and Philosophy
Leo and Denise prioritize creating a welcoming and inclusive environment at the brewery. They emphasize the importance of customer service and making every visitor feel like a part of the Montclair Brewery community.
Shoutouts and Closing
Leo gives a shoutout to a friend, John Muller, for his support, while Denise expresses her love for New Jersey parks and tea shops. The hosts thank Denise and Leo for sharing their story and wish them continued success in their brewing endeavors.
Conclusion
The podcast episode highlights the passion, community engagement, and storytelling that define the Montclair Brewery’s unique approach to brewing beer. Denise and Leo’s commitment to creating a welcoming space for customers shines through in their dedication to customer service and community involvement.
