In a significant move for the craft beer industry, Inglewood’s Crowns & Hops Brewing Co. has partnered with Portland, Maine-based Allagash Brew Co. to release a new collaborative beer called “Cur-8.” This exciting new brew not only brings together two distinct brewing philosophies but also serves a powerful purpose: supporting the 8 Trill Initiative, a development fund dedicated to generating opportunities for Black-owned craft beer brands.
The “Cur-8” collaboration, reported in February 2026, exemplifies a growing commitment within the craft beer community to foster diversity and inclusion. The beer itself is a testament to inventive brewing, combining Allagash’s award-winning golden ale, Curieux, with Crowns & Hops’ acclaimed 8-Trills pilsner. This unique blend offers a distinctive flavor profile while simultaneously drawing attention to the vital work of the 8 Trill Initiative.
A Partnership with Purpose
Crowns & Hops Brewing Co., co-founded by Beny Ashburn and Teo Hunter, has been a trailblazer in the craft beer scene since its inception in 2019. Their mission extends beyond crafting exceptional beers; they aim to build a more expansive beer-loving culture within communities of color. Having initially launched through marketing efforts and partnerships, the brand has been working towards establishing its own brewing facility in Hunter’s hometown of Inglewood, California.
The collaboration with Allagash Brew Co. underscores the increasing recognition of Black-owned breweries and their unique contributions to the industry. Allagash Brew Co., known for its Belgian-inspired beers and commitment to quality, brings a respected legacy to the partnership. The synergy between the two breweries in creating “Cur-8” is a demonstration of how collaboration can transcend traditional boundaries and serve a greater community good.
The Impact of the 8 Trill Initiative
A crucial aspect of the “Cur-8” release is its direct support for the 8 Trill Initiative. This fund is designed to provide resources and opportunities for Black entrepreneurs looking to enter or expand within the craft beer space. Given that Black-owned breweries constitute less than one percent of the nearly 8,500 craft breweries in the United States, initiatives like the 8 Trill Initiative are indispensable for addressing historical disparities and fostering equitable growth.
The proceeds from the sales of “Cur-8” will directly contribute to this fund, empowering future Black brewery owners and strengthening the industry’s diversity. This focus on systemic support highlights a shift towards creating sustainable pathways for underrepresented groups in craft beer, moving beyond mere representation to tangible economic empowerment.
Community and Cultural Resonance
Crowns & Hops has consistently championed the cultural heritage of African American communities through their brand and products. Their efforts reflect a broader movement within Black-owned beverage companies to infuse their brands with stories, movements, and legacies that resonate deeply with their heritage.
Such collaborations are vital not only for the individual brands involved but for the entire craft beer ecosystem. They introduce unique flavors and perspectives to a wider audience, challenging conventional notions of who creates and consumes craft beer. By leveraging their platform, Crowns & Hops and Allagash are helping to create a more inclusive and representative future for the industry.
The “Cur-8” collaboration is more than just a new beer; it’s a beacon of progress and a call to action. It reminds us that every sip can contribute to a more diverse, equitable, and vibrant craft beer landscape. As consumers continue to seek out and support brands that align with their values, these types of partnerships will undoubtedly become even more prevalent, driving positive change across the industry.
Looking Ahead
The success of collaborations like “Cur-8” paves the way for future partnerships and initiatives that prioritize community impact and diversity. It reinforces the idea that craft beer can be a powerful vehicle for social change, fostering connections and creating opportunities where they are most needed. Indulge Black History proudly documents and celebrates the brands at the forefront of this evolution, including Crowns & Hops Brewing Co., as they continue to craft excellence and reshape the narrative of the American beverage industry.
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