Badass Women in Beer

March is here, and the women of Payette Brewing have gathered to craft another delicious International Women’s Day brew in collaboration with the Pink Boots Society. This marks the 7th annual Pink Boots Hop Blend proudly partnered with Yakima Chief Hops, each year this brew keeps getting better!

What is the Pink Boots Society you might ask? This is a nonprofit organization that aims to support and empower women working in the beer industry. Founded in 2007 by Teri Fahrendorf, a brewmaster, the society seeks to educate, network and provide resources for women in the fermented/alcoholic beverage industry. The Pink Boots Society also offers scholarships to help women succeed in various roles within the beer community and help advocate for diversity and inclusivity within the industry! Cool, right?!

Mirroring the growth of the craft beer scene in Idaho, more and more women are making their mark in the beer world! From leading as brewmasters, owning breweries, cultivating hops or simply enjoying a cold one–we love to see the growth of women in beer! Although it may seem small, today women make up 23% of the beer industry. Marketing Director and Graphic Designer, Paige Francis, remembers when women were far and few between in the craft beer world.

Paige Francis has been working in the beer industry for 11 years, and her journey in beer started even earlier. Back in 2009, she began homebrewing with her dad and exploring craft beers from some of her favorite breweries—Drake’s, Dogfish Head, Sierra Nevada, and Payette. She found herself intrigued by the brewing process, the history and rise of craft beer, and not to mention—the marketing and package design for the beloved beverage.

After more than a decade in the beer industry, Paige has noticed a significant shift in the representation of women in the craft beer scene. What was once a RARE sight to see in this male-dominated space, more women are now stepping into various roles across all stages of beer production, from farm to consumer.

For Payette, supporting the Pink Boots Society isn’t just about brewing beer (although it is delicious), it’s about promoting inclusivity and empowerment within the industry. Participating in this annual collaboration brew has become an important tradition for Payette, ensuring their continued involvement for many years to come.

“Pink Boots Society is such a great organization and inspires and educates women in the beer industry...So why the heck wouldn’t we do it?!”

— Paige Francis

With a love for hops and bold, flavorful brews, it is no surprise that Paige gravitates towards the ever-popular IPA. For her, nothing beats the enticing aroma and flavor of a well-crafted IPA. When it comes to choosing a favorite from our lineup, Paige doesn’t hesitate to declare her love for Recoil IPA.

About the brew

The women of Payette gathered on the brew deck on February 23rd, 2024 with lead brewer, David Torres, to craft something special. Brewed with a blend of popular hops and one experimental hop, we are excited to announce the release of When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold, a nod to optimistic thinking and a positive attitude when facing adversity! This hoppy Golden Ale is rested on Telaya Winery Sauvignon Blanc soaked Oak Chips to give a subtle hit of white grape and dryness from the oak tannin.