We had the chance to chat with Van and Sumit Sharma, the founders of Rupee Beer - a craft beer specially designed to be paired with Indian and other spice-rich foods. We talked about their inspiration for the brew, their history growing up in the restaurant industry, how they've brought more diversity to the craft beer space, how they define success, and more!

ABOUT OUR GUESTS:

Sumit and Van Sharma always found it frustrating that Indian beer giants never distributed to states like Maine in the early 90’s. Both of them grew up in the Indian restaurant trade which their family has been in for over 45 years, but it wasn’t until COVID that they both ended up living in Maine after being overseas in the UK and Australia. During that time, they set out to change the food and beverage arena in a bold, diverse, and innovative way. After partnering with global brewing legend Alan Pugsley, co-founder of Shipyard Brewing Company, they have taken what started as an idea to solve a problem of sourcing Indian beer in Maine and grown it into a dialogue of increasing ethnic diversity within the craft brewing scene.

To learn more about Rupee Beer, visit www.rupeebeer.com to find out where to get a cold can and news about new releases. Be sure to follow them on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

ABOUT OUR SPONSOR:

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ABOUT KEEP IT LOCAL MAINE:

We are a way for local businesses to promote themselves to thousands of people in and around their communities - letting them know what great services and products they offer right here in Maine! We currently publish four issues in areas around Southern Maine in addition to our podcast. To learn more about us, visit keepitlocalmaine.com or follow us on social media - Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.