The basics:

• Montclair Brewery launches can for Larry Doby Caramel Pale Ale
• Aug. 1 release party to feature Doby family and can artist
• Ale honors the first Black player in the American League

Montclair Brewery is toasting former Montclair resident and barrier-breaking baseball legend Larry Doby with a commemorative can.

The brew initially came out in 2020 as part of a Black History Month beer series. However, the Doby Major Leagues Caramel Pale Ale was only available on draft, according to the brewery. Denise Ford Sawadogo, co-owner and chief brand officer of the brewery, admitted, “I always felt that the Doby beer got a little slighted since it never had its own dedicated beer can label. We’re happy that we’re finally able to give it its due.”

The brewery plans to celebrate the release with an Aug. 1 party at its Walnut Street taproom. Scheduled to run from 6–7 p.m., the event will feature appearances by members of the Doby family and the artist behind the can.

Just 11 weeks after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in the National League, Doby became the first Black player to integrate in the American League.

A seven-time All-Star, World Series champion and Hall of Famer, Doby endured and overcame intense racism while paving the way for future generations of Black players. In 2024, he was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for his historic contributions to sports and civil rights.

Bottoms up

According to the brewery, its Doby brew is a smooth American pale ale “with pine and citrus hop flavors balanced by warm, toasty notes of caramel.”

Sydnei Smith Jordan, an award-winning South Jersey-based artist, shared, “Designing this can was about more than just artwork — it was about honoring a man whose courage opened doors for generations. Larry Doby’s amazing story should be known by all, and I’m grateful to Montclair Brewery for helping me uplift his legacy.”

Honoring this hometown hero through our beer is part of how we celebrate the stories that shape our community.
– Leo Sawadogo, Montclair Brewery co-owner and head brewer

“Honoring this hometown hero through our beer is part of how we celebrate the stories that shape our community,” remarked Montclair Brewery co-owner and head brewer Leo Sawadogo. “Sydnei brought that vision to life with a stunning piece of artwork that captures Doby’s resilient spirit. We’re proud to partner with an artist so deeply committed to culture and community.”

Additionally, the Doby Major Leagues Caramel Pale Ale will be available for purchase Aug. 2 at the TD Bank Ballpark Stadium in Bridgewater during the Somerset Patriots’ annual tribute to the New York Yankees Negro League team.

After opening in 2018 as the state’s first fully Black-owned brewery, Montclair Brewery has become known for featuring locally inspired and culturally intriguing beers, as well as supporting social justice efforts.