Beer-articles 922

A neon sign advertising Modelo Mexican beer.

In June 2023, Modelo Especial surpassed Bud Light to become the top-selling beer brand in America. Since that time, the sales difference between the two brands has increased—and Michelob Ultra has also surpassed Bud Light to claim the second-best selling spot in the country—continuing a trend of growth that has been evident for several years.

“Modelo, and to some extent other Mexican import beer brands, have managed to resonate with consumers through a lifestyle message that is both targeted and universally appealing,” noted Kate Bernot, lead analyst with Sightlines, a beverage alcohol insights platform, during a phone interview. “Miller and Coors, in their attempt to appeal to a broad audience, lost their special appeal to anyone. Then along came Corona, Modelo, and Pacifico, offering a fresher and more authentic experience.”

“They are simply cooler brands,” Bernot remarked, referring to the Mexican import beers.

Although some attribute the recent drop in Bud Light sales to the Dylan Mulvaney controversy, the brand had been experiencing a sales decline for several years. During this period, imports from brands, especially those from Mexico, have been gaining popularity. Predictions from Sightlines had indicated that Modelo Especial would surpass Bud Light in sales, and while the Mulvaney incident did expedite shifts in the rankings of America’s leading beers, this change has been in motion for some time.

As noted by Bernot, first-generation immigrants often influence trends in the food and beverage sector, which is reflected in the rising popularity of Latin American culture. “We can see this in music,” Bernot remarked, referencing artists like Bad Bunny and Nathy Peluso. “The significance of these beers is amplified by the current prominence of Hispanic cultural contributions—whether in food, music, or art—within mainstream American culture.”

Bernot references figures from the Beer Institute, indicating that in 2023, beer imported from Mexico constituted approximately 81% of the total imported beer volume in the U.S., marking a 2% increase from the previous year. A decade ago, Mexican beer accounted for only 61% of total beer imports.

This growth cannot be solely ascribed to the Hispanic market. Bernot points out that in 2023, a larger proportion of non-Hispanic households (61%) purchased Modelo compared to Hispanic households (39%). Moreover, the craft beer sector has also witnessed a notable rise in the popularity of beers labeled as “Mexican lager.”

In an interesting twist within the beer industry, Constellation Brands holds the exclusive rights to sell Modelo beer brands, such as Corona and Pacifico, within the United States, while the world’s largest beer conglomerate, AB InBev, maintains rights globally. Following AB InBev’s acquisition of Grupo Modelo in 2012, the Justice Department intervened and required AB InBev to divest the rights to sell Modelo’s beer brands in the U.S.

Constellation stepped in as the buyer and has witnessed remarkable growth of these brands since then. “Constellation is just really good at marketing and selling their beers,” noted Bernot. As for why AB InBev, despite its immense size and marketing power, struggled to adapt, Bernot explained, “They tried. They anticipated the threat from Mexican imports and launched Bud Light Lime back in 2008. It had some success, but Bud Light can’t easily shake off a century of marketing history.”

Further fueling Constellation’s rise with its Mexican beer labels is its collaboration with Reyes Beverage Group, the largest beer distributor in the United States. “Combining these in-demand brands with one of the most ambitious wholesalers in the nation is like throwing gasoline on a fire,” remarked Bernot.

The very threat posed by Mexican import brands prompted AB InBev’s acquisition of Grupo Modelo in 2012. However, the anti-trust concerns raised by the Justice Department led to Constellation Brands obtaining the Modelo brands in the U.S., ultimately resulting in Modelo Especial surpassing AB InBev’s Bud Light to become the top-selling beer in America.

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Throughout history, most beer had a smoky flavor, but contemporary trends have largely moved away from this style. Here’s a look at why some brewers are bringing smoked beers back into the spotlight.

Courtesy of Alaskan Brewing Company

Smoked beer constitutes a small fraction of the U.S. beer market, yet it remains a contentious style, even among dedicated beer enthusiasts. From subtly smoked helles lagers to bold, robust rauchbiers, these beverages feature smoked malts. There is considerable variation in styles due to the different wood types and the duration of smoking employed by maltsters, leading to a wide range of smokiness levels in the final product.

“At one time, it’s likely that all beer had a smoky characteristic,” shares Ben Smith, vice president of brewing operations at Surly Brewing Company in Minneapolis. “In the beginning, when malted barley was being dried, a direct fire system was used, causing some smoke to blend with the malt during the drying process.” Nowadays, malts are typically dried in kilns to eliminate smokiness, except when that flavor is intentionally desired.

Smoked beers might require some time to appreciate fully, but the good news is that they blend nicely with a variety of flavors.

“Smoked beers are surprisingly adaptable when it comes to food pairings,” shares Tim Adams, the founder of Oxbow Brewing Company located in Oxbow, Maine.

Adams notes that Bamberg, Germany, is regarded as the heart of smoked beer, suggesting that one should begin with traditional dishes that feature pork and cabbage from German cuisine. He advises starting with “like with like” for pairings. For instance, smoky barbecue goes well with a milder smoked beer. However, he warns against pairing these beers with desserts or overly sweet flavors, as they can intensify the bitterness of smoked malt.

Brian Yaeger, founder of the Diff’rent Smokes festival dedicated to rauchbiers and a passionate advocate for smoked beer, encourages people to approach it with an open mind and enjoyment. “Rauchbier is the most punk rock style,” he explains. “It’s fantastic, but I can see why some might not like it. Brewing and enjoying it serves as a deliciously rebellious gesture against the majority in a way no other craft beer style does.”

Here are a few suggestions for beers to enhance your smoking experience.

Food & Wine / Surly Brewing Company

Smith describes this taproom-exclusive light German lager as a tribute to the smoked beer tradition originating from Bamberg, Germany. It serves as an excellent introduction to the style due to the minimal amount of beech-smoked malt incorporated, primarily for aroma and a subtle hint of flavor.

“By the time you reach the midpoint of the pint, you nearly don’t even notice the smoke anymore,” Smith remarks. He explains that after a few initial sips, the additional characteristics of the beer begin to emerge. “With a low ABV of 4.5%, you can comfortably enjoy two or three of them. They’re perfect for serving in a mug during Oktoberfest.”

Food & Wine / Oxbow Brewing Company

As a Marzen-inspired smoked bière de garde, Oxtoberfest takes cues from the brewing traditions of Belgium, Germany, and France, according to Adams. “The majority of our smoked beers are yeast-driven, Belgian-style farmhouse ales,” he explains. “While modern Belgian brewing features very few smoked beers, we believe that the smoke character enhances the fruit and spice flavors commonly found in these styles.”

Oktoberfest has a 6% ABV and skillfully balances malt and yeast characteristics. It carries a moderate smoky finish and is particularly delightful when enjoyed with a soft Bavarian pretzel.

Food & Wine / Dovetail Brewery

Grodziskies are among the more subtly smoked types within the category. Frequently hard to locate, they serve as excellent introductions to the style, thanks to their light body and lower alcohol content. Dovetail’s seasonal version of this style boasts a 3.8% ABV, striking a balance between zesty citrus notes and a faint smokiness, presented in a medium body with a refreshing finish.

Food & Wine / Alaskan Brewing Company

Rauchbier, translating to “smoke beer” in German, didn’t arrive in the U.S. until 1988. That was the year Alaskan launched its smoked porter, a pioneering smoky beer that introduced American consumers to this style. Alaskan’s Smoked Porter has garnered more awards at the Great American Beer Festival than any other beer to date. It is rich and complex, aging beautifully, yet can also be enjoyed fresh.

Food & Wine / Threes Brewing

Matt Levy, the head brewer at Threes Brewing located in Brooklyn, New York, is the creative mind behind the brand’s Thought Experiment series. This unique series features a smoked helles that is aged in an oak foeder with whole fruit sourced from their barrel-aged program. The peach iteration boasts an ABV of 5.2%, showcasing a bubbly saison body complemented by vibrant fruit flavors and a hint of smokiness.

“There’s something primal about the flavor,” Levy explains, encouraging beer enthusiasts to explore a variety of smoked styles. “Why not try and see if you can find one that you like?”

Traverse City Beer Week is making its return, featuring special offers from November 8 to November 16 this year.TC Tourism

TRAVERSE CITY, MI – This November, Traverse City’s beloved Beer Week is back, showcasing a great selection of popular and experimental beers. An innovative digital “passport” is available for visitors to explore the local breweries at their own pace. Attendees can expect an impressive array of deals on pints, tastings, and brewery merchandise, including options for beer-to-go.

Beer Week will take place from November 8 to November 16.

“Experience the creativity and originality of the Traverse City brew culture by embarking on a self-guided tour of local breweries and dining establishments,” said staff from Traverse City Tourism. “Keep track of your journey in the passport; checking in at various locations will make you eligible for exciting prizes!”

How It Works:

Claim a Traverse City Beer Week hat by checking in at five or more participating breweries and restaurants using your event passport.TC Tourism

What’s the prize this year? A cozy Traverse City Beer Week pom-style winter hat that will keep you warm while you enjoy your pints this winter. To earn this prize, simply check into five or more participating locations on your Beer Week passport. “Once you’ve met the requirements to claim this prize, the passport will alert you, and you can visit the Traverse City Tourism Visitor Center to collect it.”

More prizes if you stay-and-play. If you book a stay at one of the hotels or other lodging options that are part of the Traverse City Tourism group during Beer Week, you’ll be entered to win one of two vacation packages. One offer includes a 2025 Michigan Beer & Brat Festival package at Crystal Mountain resort. The other is a 2025 Suds & Snow Festival package in Traverse City.

Tourism officials encourage all attendees of Beer Week to enjoy their brews responsibly. It’s important to use a designated driver, take a cab, or arrange for a group tour vehicle.

“The beer culture in Traverse City offers more than just an opportunity to find your new favorite drink,” stated Trevor Tkach, president and CEO of Traverse City Tourism. “It combines the artistry of brewing with an extraordinary destination.”

“Traverse City Beer Week provides guests the chance to savor wonderful brews while also discovering the lakes, trails, shopping, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and all the attractions that establish this area as a leading travel destination in the Midwest.”

Here’s a preview of some of the deals available during Beer Week:

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A brewery is celebrating after one of its beers was crowned the winner of a prestigious award.

The Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) named Essex-based Crouch Vale Brewery’s Amarillo the Champion Beer of Britain.

Colin Bocking, 69, started the brewery in South Woodham Ferrers in 1981 and said winning was “good news – it’s always a lovely surprise when this sort of thing happens, it felt great”.

The long-standing Camra awards are given to recognise the best pubs, clubs, beer and cider in the UK.

Mr Bocking mentioned that he was around 26 years old when he embarked on his business journey, which he has been running alongside his wife, Fiona, for 43 years.

He reflected, “It was a complete career change for me.”

Prior to this, he worked in the civil service, managing pensions and benefits. “I felt there had to be more to life, and that’s when I transitioned into this venture.”

Recently, the couple was honored as winners at an awards ceremony held in Nottinghamshire on Wednesday.

The event featured a variety of beers from numerous breweries nationwide, culminating in the selection of the winners.

One brewery’s beer triumphed in the Premium Ale category before claiming the prestigious title of Supreme Champion Beer of Britain 2024.

This marked the third time the brewery has secured a Camra award, having previously won in both 2005 and 2006.

“With thousands of beers available, many of which are excellent, the chances of winning an accolade like this are rather slim due to the intense competition,” Mr. Bocking remarked.

“So to win it is a lovely surprise, because the odds are always against it.”

Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.

Emmerdale is known for the iconic pub, The Woolpack.

This cherished establishment serves as the backdrop for many dramatic events in the ITV village, witnessing an array of calamities including a plane crash, raging fires, and numerous new landlords taking over.

Throughout the series, cast members are often depicted enjoying drinks at the pub, but what viewers might not realize is that the actors indulge in real alcohol while shooting their scenes.

Interestingly, they weren’t the only ones unaware of this behind-the-scenes detail. Emmerdale favorite Matthew Wolfenden revealed that he unintentionally got a bit tipsy while filming his initial scenes for the ITV show.

David Metcalfe, who made his debut in the village in 2006, has been a central figure in numerous significant storylines since then.

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During his initial appearances on the show, Matthew was unaware that actual alcohol was consumed on set at The Woolpack. In one scene, his character was directed to down pints of beer amid the pub’s unfolding drama.

Since filming often requires multiple takes, particularly when errors happen, it’s common for scenes to be shot repeatedly.

During a special segment dedicated to memorable bloopers from the soap opera world, a popular television star revealed that the cast actually consumes real alcoholic drinks while filming.

As a newcomer to the cast at that time, Matthew found himself downing several beers during a scene. By the end of the shoot, he admitted that he had lost his sobriety, according to reports from the Mirror.

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He laughed as he recounted, “It was just my second day on the job while we were filming in The Woolpack. I was completely unaware of this detail. My stage direction indicated that David drinks his pint and storms out.”

“He had just had a heated argument with Eric, and I kept repeating this action. I started off completely sober, but by the end of it…”

He then humorously mimicked how his speech became slurred due to the unforeseen intoxication. Other cast members chimed in, sharing their own amusing tales of indulgence during filming.

In 2022, ITV partnered with Heineken to promote their alcohol-free beer on the beloved show. Observant fans can spot Heineken 0.0 draught available at the Woolpack and also at Coronation Street‘s Rovers Return.

Emmerdale is broadcast from Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on ITV1, or you can catch up on ITVX.

By Gary Dzen

The inaugural Latino beer festival in Boston is set to take place at Roundhead Brewing Company later this month.

Located in Hyde Park, Roundhead will mark its second anniversary with a weekend full of celebrations on October 25.

The festivities commence on Friday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a special bottle release and a community vinyl night. Attendees will have the chance to get their hands on Valhalla, a limited edition, barrel-aged Scottish ale. The evening will feature DJ NXN, who encourages guests to share and spin their favorite classic vinyl records. Admission is free, and people of all ages are invited to join in the fun.

“This beer takes me back to our earliest moments when we began envisioning the growth of Roundhead and strengthening the bond between Craig Panzer and myself,” shares Roundhead co-founder Luis Espinoza. “It’s an opportune time to unveil our anniversary beer, Valhalla, which has been aged for seven months in bourbon barrels.”

Roundhead was established by the two friends, Espinoza and Panzer, who first crossed paths on the sidelines of their children’s soccer matches in Jamaica Plain. Espinoza hails from Peru, where his family operated a series of bakeries. While the brewery proudly showcases its Latin American roots with beers infused with ingredients such as guava, passion fruit, and purple corn, Roundhead also embraces the broader craft beer tradition. This includes their special edition Scottish ale.

“During my childhood, my grandfather used to brew Chicha, a drink made from malted corn, fruit, and spices,” reflects Espinoza. “I find it captivating to integrate something novel and distinct into a beer.”

On Saturday, October 26, Roundhead will host Boston’s inaugural Latino beer festival. The event will feature beers from ten breweries, including Cervecería del Callejón, Reina Mora, and Dragon Stone Abbey from Puerto Rico, Cerveza 7 Vidas from Peru, as well as local favorites like Hot Plate Brewing in Pittsfield.

“It is essential for the community of Latin and alliance brewers to unite,” Espinoza states. “Through collaboration, we share culture, experiences, and knowledge. I take great pride in being able to foster an environment that highlights Latin contributions to brewing right here in Boston.”

On Saturday, the Latino beer festival will host two sessions—one from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and another from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.—with each session accommodating a maximum of 120 guests. This event is for those aged 21 and over. Tickets are priced at $55 when purchased in advance and $75 at the door. Following the beer festival, there will be a ticketed salsa dance party featuring the jazz band Timba Messengers, commencing at 6:30 p.m.

The top events in the city, sent straight to your inbox.

Gary Dzen serves as the deputy editor of sports and culture at Boston.com. A graduate of Bates College, he has been part of the Boston Globe Media team since 2005.

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Alvin Kamara has caught the attention of a local brewery following the announcement of his two-year, $24.5 million extension with the New Orleans Saints.

Abita Beer, based in Louisiana, has expressed their intention to offer Kamara a “lifetime supply of beer,” while affectionately referring to him as a “loyal king.” It appears that Kamara is open to discussing the specifics with the brewery.

He took to X to inquire, “Do you need my address.. how we do this?”

Do you need my address.. how we do this? https://t.co/JH920UhKYZ

Kamara, who has dedicated his entire eight-year career to the Saints, has now secured his presence in New Orleans until the 2026 season with his new contract.

During the offseason, Kamara missed the conclusion of the Saints’ mandatory minicamp in pursuit of a new deal, but he didn’t engage in a holdout. Despite his disappointment over not getting the extension he desired, he consistently expressed his intention to remain in New Orleans.

“I want to be a Saint,” he stated in July. “I want to retire here.”

With the new extension in hand, his wish has been granted, much to the delight of fans. His commitment to the team that drafted him has not gone unnoticed, as local businesses have even offered him free beer. If Kamara continues to excel in the backfield, he may attract even more local breweries and restaurants eager to provide him with lifelong supplies of their specialties.

Alvin Kamara has recorded 438 rushing yards and six touchdown runs, complemented by 252 receiving yards and one touchdown as the season unfolds. The Saints kicked off the year impressively with commanding victories over the Carolina Panthers and Dallas Cowboys, but their momentum has faltered with five consecutive losses.

Now fueled by a fresh contract, Kamara will be pivotal for New Orleans as they aim to turn their season around and possibly end a three-year absence from the playoffs.

Tom Edwards, one of the proprietors of Old Caz Brewery, recounted a recent weekend shift when he was tinkering about the brewery. During this time, he received a message from his former manager that brought exciting news: Old Caz had secured second place in one of the nation’s most esteemed beer competitions for their flagship creation.

The One Way IPA received a silver medal in the American-style India Pale Ale category at the Great American Beer Festival, which took place from October 10-12 in Denver, Colorado. Edwards describes the accolades as akin to “the Olympics” for brewers.

“That kind of recognition puts breweries on the map,” noted Edwards.

Reflecting on the brewery’s early days in 2018, Edwards explained that he and co-founder Bryan Rangel were operating on a tight budget, often renting equipment in Redding to brew their beer.

During the production of their first-ever batch of flagship IPA, the Carr Fire erupted, forcing many residents near Redding to evacuate. Upon learning about the fire, Edwards and Rangel hopped into a one-way U-Haul and drove to Redding to rescue their beer, which ultimately inspired its distinct name.

Since their inception, the brewery has opened two venues in Rohnert Park, with their latest establishment at SOMA Village.

Edwards expressed his amazement at the recognition their brewery received, stating that it was beyond anything he had ever dreamed to win with their flagship IPA. The competition received over 9,000 beer submissions across various categories.

“I can’t remember the last time three Sonoma breweries were honored with a medal in this competition,” Edwards remarked.

Two other breweries from Santa Rosa also earned medals at this year’s competition. Russian River Brewing Co. received a bronze for its Belgian-style sour ale, Intinction – Petite Sirah, while Moonlight Brewing Co. took home a gold medal for its Bohemian-style pilsner named Reality Czeck-style Pilsner.

According to Edwards, these accolades hold significant value for local brewers and underscore the dedication they pour into their craft.

“We have some truly remarkable breweries making great strides, and it’s one of the finest places in the country to enjoy beer,” Edwards remarked.

You can contact Staff Writer Melanie Nguyen at 707-521-5457 or melanie.nguyen@pressdemocrat.com. On X (Twitter) @mellybelly119

Only one brewery secured four gold medals at this year’s Great American Beer Festival, a premier event in the brewing industry.

Highland Park Brewery achieved remarkable success at the Great American Beer Festival by winning gold medals for DDH Pillow and three additional beers.

Following a tasting session of the beers submitted by Highland Park Brewery for this year’s Great American Beer Festival, James Sullivan felt optimistic about the brewery’s chances of winning at least a couple of medals. However, as he tuned into the live stream of the competition’s award ceremony at the Bellco Theatre in Denver on Saturday, October 12, he was taken aback by the announcements.

Highland Park Brewery was declared the gold medal winner in one category, then another, then yet another, until finally they claimed a fourth.

“I was really anxious every time one of our beers was announced,” Sullivan, who serves as the marketing director for Highland Park Brewery, shared with me recently.

Highland Park Brewery in Los Angeles has been named the top brewery of 2024 by the Great American Beer Festival.

By the conclusion of the awards ceremony, Highland Park had secured gold medals for their American-style IPA (Competition), hazy imperial IPA (DDH Pillow), American-style lager (Baseball), and American-style pale ale (Timbo). The brewery was also honored as Brewery Group Brewery and Brewer of the Year. The Great American Beer Festival is recognized as one of the most esteemed competitions in the brewing industry. This year, over 8,800 beers were entered and evaluated through blind taste tests conducted by 285 expert judges. The competition recognizes 8 brewer of the year awards for breweries of varying sizes, yet Highland Park stood out as the only brewery of any category to take home four gold medals, making it the most awarded brewery for gold medals in 2024.

“The entire HPB brew team consistently aims to produce the finest product possible, and I couldn’t be happier to see their dedication rewarded in such a significant manner,” Sullivan remarked.

The brewery was established in 2014 by Bob and Tiff Kunz, who aimed to deliver the freshest and hoppiest beers to Los Angeles while also enhancing the local community through social and environmental responsibility, as noted by Sullivan.

“They created something remarkable with this company, and we’re all delighted to witness their years of hard work and commitment pay off like this,” Sullivan remarks.

Lager named Baseball played a key role in helping Highland Park achieve recognition as this year’s top brewery at the Great American Beer Festival competition.

Of the four categories in which Highland Park Brewery excelled, three were focused on hop-forward beers, which the team takes great pride in.

“Our goal is to produce a top-notch product, and a significant part of that involves not just perfecting our recipes, but also sourcing the finest ingredients from various hop farms and maltsters globally,” Sullivan states. “Our brewery is heavily influenced by sensory experiences, guiding us in determining how we envision the final taste of our beer, which in turn, influences the category we choose for that particular brew.”

This marks the third consecutive year that the brewery’s DDH Pillow beer has secured a gold medal in the hazy imperial IPA category. “In crafting hazy beers, we aim to truly highlight the aromatic qualities of the hops while still delivering a flavorful yet approachable beer,” Sullivan explains.

Sullivan expresses enthusiasm for their Baseball Lager as well. “We aimed to develop a refreshing, light lager with a straightforward name, and once the idea of ‘Baseball’ emerged, it felt like a natural fit,” Sullivan remarks. This beer launching is particularly timely, as the brewery is located near the World Series-bound Dodgers team, attracting numerous Dodgers fans.

“It’s one of our top-selling beers, especially during the Dodger season,” Sullivan adds.

Sullivan expressed not only pride in Highland Park’s achievements at the Great American Beer Festival competition but also enthusiasm for the numerous medals awarded to fellow Los Angeles breweries. California frequently excels in these competitions, with local breweries significantly contributing to this success. “This city is full of great beer and I’m thrilled to see it get so much recognition at this year’s GABF Awards,” Sullivan shares.

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In the early to mid-20th century, a Zulu artist crafted this beer vessel from burnished earthenware.

As October arrives, it brings with it delightful aromas of pumpkin spice, the festive spirit of Halloween, and the jubilant vibes of Oktoberfest—celebrating everything beer-related! An ukhamba displayed at NOMA symbolizes the rich tradition of beer brewing, a craft that is predominantly overseen by women in southern Africa.

Low-alcohol sorghum beer has long been a vital component of nutrition in southern Africa and remains a choice offering for ancestors as well as a gesture of hospitality.

Many families even set up a small altar, known as umsamo, where they can present beer and meat to their ancestors.

Various types of vessels are designed for both preparation and consumption, serving a purpose during significant events such as funerals, weddings, coming-of-age celebrations, and other important transitional moments in life.

Smaller pots, like the ukhamba, are commonly shared among individuals, while larger vessels such as the iphangela can contain enough beer for an entire gathering, typically enjoyed using a ladle or cup.

This delicate, rimless ceramic piece showcases a deep, blackened glaze, crafted using coil-building techniques. Its surface is adorned with raised bumps known as amasumpa, skillfully applied by the artisans. In the Zulu-speaking areas of South Africa, this darkening connects the vessel to ancestors and spirits who are believed to prefer dimly lit spaces.

Additionally, the curved, geometric patterns that are either incised or impressed onto the surface of this vessel are a hallmark of the region’s artistry.

This design may evoke images of cow horns and the livestock owned by affluent families, while also drawing a profound connection to women’s physical forms and body modification practices known as scarification, which involves the permanent marking of the skin through cutting or branding.

Although these pieces are still crafted for home environments, a new audience has emerged that appreciates the visual appeal of ceramic beer vessels, with many female artisans successfully selling their works in contemporary art galleries.

Bowls intended for commercial markets, rather than spiritual use, are available in various shades of brown and black, and well-known families of female potters enjoy a reputation both locally and internationally.

Amanda M. Maples is the Françoise Billion Richardson curator of African art at NOMA.