Black Viking Brewing hasn’t been around for long, but they’ve made their mark in the brewing industry. The Montgomery County-based company has hit many milestones since its launch in 2021. For starters, it’s the first Black-owned beer brand, co-created by DMV native, Shaun Taylor. After just two years, Black Viking will soon become the first Black beer brand licensed in the entire DMV region. It was also named eighth Best New Brewery in the country by USA Today. Additionally, Taylor and team recently collaborated with iconic beer brand, Samuel Adams.
It’s an impressive list of accomplishments and Potomac patrons have noticed, but Taylor says they’re just getting started. “There are 9,500 breweries in the country, and only 100 Black-owned,” he notes “None of us have national distribution,” he continues. “I have been very adamant in saying Black Viking will be the first Black-owned, nationally-distributed beer brand.”
It’s a big goal, but an attainable one. Black Viking has seen huge success with their flagship ginger golden ale called “Zingabier.” Taylor says it’s what makes his brand stand out from the pack. “It’s a very communal beer, and it can go anywhere,” he adds. “From your favorite bottle shop, to the ball game, to your backyard barbecue.”
The beer is a fan favorite in the DMV, which Taylor attributes to the local community’s support. “The public has been amazing. I’m a homegrown product, a MoCo guy…So there was a lot of momentum around Black Viking when we did launch,” he says. The brand’s launch exceeded expectations after they sold 43 cases of beer in one night.
As for next steps, the team plans to expand beyond the DMV with a strategic marketing plan in place – Taylor’s goal is to travel from state to state, sharing his beer, and listening to people’s stories. While Black Viking has many missions, community is at its core. “We are Black-owned, but we are not black only. I am all about bringing people together,” he says.