If you think beer has always been a "men's" drink, it's time to debunk this myth. Since ancient times, women have played a central role in beer production. In ancient Mesopotamia, it was they who took care of fermentation, and many beer-related deities were female, such as Ninkasi, the Sumerian goddess of beer. In the Middle Ages, nuns like Hildegard von Bingen helped refine production techniques, introducing hops to improve preservation. And again, in the following centuries, women like researcher Madame de Lavoisier experimented with new fermentation techniques, leaving an indelible mark on brewing history.
Today, the connection between women and beer is stronger than ever: more and more women appreciate and choose craft beer, both as consumers and as industry professionals, helping to make the sector more inclusive and diverse.
Women who drink beer: data and preferences
In recent years, the number of women who drink beer has been steadily increasing. According to research by AssoBirra, 60% of Italian women drink beer, a percentage that places us among the world leaders in terms of female consumers. However, per capita consumption remains lower compared to other European countries, standing at 14 liters per year.
Women tend to drink beer with a more moderate and occasional approach: 70% of Italian female consumers drink it only once a month, preferring light and aromatic beers, often in small formats (200-330 ml). Preferences lean towards light and balanced beers, ideal to enjoy during meals or social occasions.
At the European level, Italy stands out for the great female passion for beer, surpassing countries with a well-established brewing tradition like France, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Moreover, together with Spain, the USA, and Germany, it is among the nations where beer is the favorite alcoholic beverage among women. In short, women and alcohol does not mean only wine or cocktails: craft beer is gaining more and more space in female tastes!
Women and beer, from consumption to production
Not only consumers but also key players in production: more and more women choose to work in the brewing sector, contributing with efficiency and creativity. Of course, the beer world remains predominantly male; just think that, according to a recent exposé by the British Beer and Pub Association, only 17% of women hold managerial roles in the sector, and just 7% become CEOs.
However, things are changing. Figures like Carol Stoudt, the first woman to found a craft brewery in the United States, or Kim Jordan, co-founder of New Belgium Brewing Company, show that female passion for beer can turn into leadership and entrepreneurship.
Even in Italy, craft beer professionals are making their mark. Marta Bozzo, brewer at Qubeer, explains how the sector is still dominated by men but with positive signs: "Women who produce beer are few, but they are increasing. There is growing attention to quality and craftsmanship, and women tend to be more attentive both as consumers and producers."
The brewing industry is therefore changing its face, thanks to the female contribution both in consumption and production. Women and beer are no longer two separate worlds, but a continuously evolving combination.
