Story By: Cypris Wilkinson
ALABASTER, Ala. – Located in Alabaster’s Siluria Mill District lies Ivy League Brew. Whose founders are not just crafting exceptional beverages, but also creating a sense of belonging and community. This establishment isn’t your typical brewery, it’s a hub of camaraderie, innovation and also mead.
“So we wanted something that would stand out. We’re not, you know, we’re not a bar, we’re not just a brewery. We’re the brewery.”
Rob Pollard
Founded by brothers, Matt and Rob Pollard’s story of how they came to craft this unique libation is truly an interesting one. It was at a Medieval Festival when Matt was stationed in Germany, his friend introduced him to a medicinal wine, he would find out that this ‘wine’ was in fact, mead.
He became inspired by this herbal concoction, Matt decided to delve into the history of alcohol, and discovered its potential benefits when consumed responsibly. His curiosity led him to the world of mead-making, where he found not only a creative outlet but also a newfound appreciation for the craft.
“The first time I ever tried mead, I thought it was the best thing ever. But the problem was I couldn’t find it anywhere. Like it just wasn’t sold on the market. And so I decided, like through my research of trying to find it, I decided I’m just going to make it myself,” he says, “So I started in my barracks right next to my bed when I was in the army 14 years ago.”
Matt says over the 14 years, he’s been honing his skills, but also experimenting with various techniques and ingredients. However, he says his first batch was actually really good and is a product, called Immortal, that they still make and sell today.
“My first ever batch was actually pretty dang good,” he says, “And then, you know, once you start venturing out and trying different things, then it gets a little more complicated, a little more this, a little more that. But, just learning all the different methods and what other people are doing and stuff like that, kind of integrating it. But, I mean, I’ve been fine tuning it over 14 years, and I’m still learning today.”
Mead may be at the heart of Ivy League Brew but the Pollard brothers wanted to create an environment where every visitor feels welcome, offering a range of activities from live music to trivia nights.
Rob Pollard says, “So we wanted something that would stand out. We’re not, you know, we’re not a bar, we’re not just a brewery. We’re the brewery.”
Another way they are standing out is with their Royalty Club. Club members enjoy exclusive benefits such as larger pours, first access to new flavors, and an invitation to the Royalty Ball. The first Royalty Ball will be held April 19. There are two options available to become a member. You can either purchase four bottles of Ivy League Brew’s mead every three months or opt for an annual membership at $250. With their diverse array of flavors and a commitment to quality, becoming a member is just one of the ways to experience all that Ivy League Brew has to offer.
To keep up to date when they have new activities going on, check out their Facebook or Instagram at Ivy League brew.
Vallo Vision News 