Pontoon Brewing Brewmaster Chris Baratz Talks Black Is Beautiful

We spoke with Pontoon Brewing Brewmaster Chris Baratz about the far-reaching collaboration beer project Black Is Beautiful, founded by Weathered Souls Brewing in San Antonio, Texas.

BC: Who came up with this beer’s recipe?
This was obviously Marcus Baskerville's recipe from Weathered Souls Brewing. We loved what we put together and tried to keep it as close to the original recipe as possible so as not to take away from the recipe and what Marcus has accomplished. I did increase the boil time and swapped out some of the roasted barley for some pale chocolate to give it a fun twist. We also added vanilla, coffee and chocolate to put a tiramisu twist on it!

BC: What’s your favorite aspect of this beer (flavor, aroma, etc.)?
The balance and drinkability. It's very smooth and like a malty cold brew with some fun complementary adjunct flavors.

BC: Where does this beer’s name come from?
It comes from the amazing movement that Weathered Souls shouldered. Black is beautiful, and it was amazing to be a part of the cause to better our country and to help fight systemic racism by increasing awareness in our own community.

BC: Is this your “desert island beer?”
We could drink this instead of coffee in the morning, so quite possibly!

BC: Can you describe this beer in 10 words or less?
A bold and beautiful take on an already amazing beer.

BC: Do you know a story – or have a personal story – that revolves around this beer?
We started a movement of our own called Brewing Conversations! It involves working with The Atlanta Podcast and people of color in our community and working together to make a beer, involve a local person of color for the artist, and to showcase their stories, journeys, struggles and successes at a live panel for the release. Proceeds from sales go to a charity of the individual's or group's choice. It usually involves entrepreneurs, industry members, chefs, advocacy groups, etc. So it was amazing to combine both movements to create an amazing crossover that continued to raise awareness and funds for some awesome charitable organizations around our community.

BC: What's a good food pairing for this beer?
Some great barbecue like short ribs, brisket and pulled pork, soft but nutty cheeses and some tiramisu!

Marcus Baskerville of Weathered Souls Brewing created the originally recipe for this beer, which has been employed around the world to bring awareness to systemic racism.

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