Vine Street Brewing drafts ‘Afrodisiac’ Ale: A tribute to love, Black culture

A cross-Kansas City collaboration crafted specifically for the month of February could become a staple at Vine Street Brewing if customers fall in love with the blend as much as its brewers hope.

Kansas City’s first Black-owned brewery — in partnership with André’s Chocolates and The Black Pantry — unveiled ‘Afrodisiac’ last week, offering a golden chocolate coffee ale that pays tribute to the rich history of Black culture and the love shared on Valentine’s Day.

From left, Vine Street Brewing Company co-founders Kemet Coleman, Woodie Bonds Jr., and Elliott Ivory with their craft beer creations on the ground floor of the new brewery at 2010 Vine St. in Kansas City, Missouri; photo courtesy of Vine Street Brewing

“We wanted to craft a beer that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also honors the traditions and heritage of African Americans,” said Elliott Ivory, head brewer at Vine Street Brewing, describing the flavors of the unique ale that combines André’s Chocolates’ cocoa nibs, with the infusion of coffee, resulting in a balanced and flavorful brew.

Now that the beer has hit the streets, co-founder Kemet Coleman is listening to the feedback from beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike to see if Afrodisiac will stay on the menu. 

“The reception so far has been amazing,” he said. “People are surprised by how crushable and refreshing it is. It’s not overly sweet and has a balance of coffee and chocolate notes. For someone like me, who isn’t a coffee drinker, to love it is insane.”

Initially releasing Afrodisiac as a limited edition product, Coleman said February felt like fitting timing.

“It adds a sense of exclusivity, and if it continues being well-received, we might consider making it an annual tradition,” he said.

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The creation of Afrodisiac began with a collaborative tour at André’s Chocolates’ facility, sparking ideas for creative partnerships. 

Vine Street Brewing; photo by Taylor Wilmore, Startland News

“It was like Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. We had coats on, and our minds were spinning with collaboration ideas,” said Coleman. “With Black Pantry also onboard, it felt like the perfect synergy.” 

The Black Pantry contributed its in-house coffee brand, Good Karma Coffee, roasted locally in Kansas City by Marcell Coffee, further elevating the beer’s flavor profile. 

“The medium roast coffee used in this ale elevates it to a new level. It’s a very light beer with a nice balance of dark chocolate and coffee notes,” said Coleman.

This limited-edition release hit the shelves Feb. 8, and is now available in cans at Black Pantry and on draft at Vine Street Brewery, while supplies last. 

The cans showcase Afrocentric design, portraying a woman wearing an afro with a gold, red, and brown foil backdrop, further embodying the message of celebrating Black culture.

“I think it’d be a great gift for someone,” said Coleman.