Can release party set for August 1 in Montclair, NJ with artist and Doby family members in attendance
Montclair Brewery is shining a well-deserved spotlight on one of its most meaningful brews — and on the legacy of a barrier-breaking baseball hero. On Friday, August 1, the New Jersey brewery will host a Can Release Party for its Doby Major Leagues Caramel Pale Ale, a tribute beer honoring Larry Doby, the first Black athlete to integrate the American League.
The beer was originally brewed in 2020 as part of the brewery’s Black History Month series but was previously only available on draft. This year marks the first time the Doby ale will be available in cans, expanding its reach and visibility just as Doby’s legacy deserves.
“I always felt that the Doby beer got a little slighted since it never had its own dedicated beer can label,” said Denise Ford Sawadogo, Co-owner and Chief Admin & Brand Officer of Montclair Brewery. “And we’re happy that we’re finally able to give it its due.”
The brewery’s taproom — located at 101 Walnut Street in Montclair, NJ — will host the release party from 6 to 7 PM, with expected appearances by members of the Doby family and the can’s designer, Sydnei SmithJordan.
Larry Doby background
Born in South Carolina and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, Doby lived for many years in Montclair, where he raised his family. A seven-time All-Star, World Series champion, and Hall of Famer, Doby made history in 1947 by breaking the color barrier in the American League, just months after Jackie Robinson integrated the National League. Like Robinson, Doby endured vicious racism but paved the way for countless others in the game.
About Doby Major Leagues Caramel Pale Ale
The Doby Major Leagues Caramel Pale Ale is a smooth American pale ale with pine and citrus hop flavors balanced by warm, toasty notes of caramel. It reflects Doby’s quiet strength and lasting impact, both on and off the field. “Designing this can was about more than just artwork — it was about honoring a man whose courage opened doors for generations,” said SmithJordan. “Larry Doby’s amazing story should be known by all, and I’m grateful to Montclair Brewery for helping me uplift his legacy.”
That story continues beyond Montclair. The Doby Major Leagues Caramel Pale Ale will also be served at TD Bank Ballpark Stadium in Bridgewater, NJ, during the Somerset Patriots’ annual tribute to the New York Black Yankees on Saturday, August 2 at 5:30 PM.
“Honoring this hometown hero through our beer is part of how we celebrate the stories that shape our community,” said Leo Sawadogo, Co-Owner and Head Brewer at Montclair Brewery. “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.”
For those looking to toast a true pioneer, this is a beer with meaning — and one that finally has the can to match.
