RIZOMA x KC Bier Co.
In March 2024, RIZOMA and Kansas City Bier Company (KC Bier Co.) collaborated to release Neomexicanus Wit, a limited-edition beer that artfully blends German brewing traditions with Hispanic cultural influences.
About Neomexicanus Wit
Neomexicanus Wit is a 5.1% ABV witbier crafted with Belgian-style yeast and dry-hopped using indigenous Neomexicanus hops native to the American Southwest. This hop variety imparts unique aromas of banana and tropical fruit, culminating in a crisp, dry finish. Departing from traditional witbier recipes that typically include orange peel and coriander, this version utilizes German malt and the distinctive Neomexicanus hop to create a beer that honors Hispanic heritage while offering a fresh take on a classic European style.
The Collaboration
The partnership between Rizoma Liquid Creations, Kansas City's first Hispanic-owned brewing concept, and KC Bier Co., known for its German-style beers, was rooted in a shared commitment to community and cultural storytelling. Rizoma's founder, Damon Arredondo, brought his creative vision and brewing expertise, while KC Bier Co. provided large-scale production capabilities and brewing proficiency. The collaboration aimed to amplify underrepresented voices in the brewing industry and celebrate the fusion of diverse brewing traditions.
Launch Event
The beer debuted on March 19, 2024, at KC Bier Co.'s Bierhalle in Kansas City. The release party featured food specials like chorizo sandwiches with haus-made chimichurri and escabeche, as well as bread pudding. Live music was provided by local reggaeton/hip-hop duo Sin Tope, creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrated the cultural fusion embodied by Neomexicanus Wit.
Supporting Latinx Education
A portion of the proceeds from Neomexicanus Wit sales was donated to the Latinx Education Collaborative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing the representation of Latinx professionals in K–12 education. This initiative reflects the collaboration's commitment to community engagement and support for educational equity.
