Brewing in Solidarity: Davide’s Journey to Ukraine
During May 2025, our Head Brewer Davide embarked on a powerful and inspiring journey across Europe to show support for Ukraine and connect with some of the most exciting names in Ukrainian craft beer. From standing in solidarity at Maidan Square to brewing boundary-pushing collaborations in Kyiv, this trip was about much more than just beer—it was about resilience, community, and cross-border creativity.
From Krakow to Kyiv
Davide’s journey began in Krakow, Poland, before heading east to the Ukrainian border town of Przemyśl. From there, he caught an overnight train to Kyiv, arriving just in time to take part in a peaceful demonstration in Maidan Square organised by Radical Alliance Europe, a moment of personal support and reflection.
What followed was an unforgettable weekend at the Lviv Craft Beer and Vinyl Festival, Ukraine’s biggest celebration of craft beer, music, and culture. This marked the festival’s first return since 2019, having been paused due to the war. Organised primarily by Pravda Brewery, the festival brought together brewers, creatives, and beer lovers determined to keep Ukrainian culture and community alive. Davide was warmly welcomed by our friends at Varvar and ReBrew, who introduced him to a vibrant brewing scene defined by innovation and spirit.
Collaboration #1 – ReBrew (Kyiv)
ReBrew may be small in scale, based in Brovary on the outskirts of Kyiv, but they’re brewing big ideas. Founded in 2019, the team is known for expertly executed modern styles like NEIPAs—and their unique twist on a native Ukrainian beer: tomato gose. Yes, really. It’s a salty gose with tomato pulp, and Davide insists it’s far more delicious than you’d expect.
Together, Brew York and ReBrew brewed a northern-inspired brown ale, but with a bold twist—cocoa nibs and vanilla. Think digestive biscuits in a pint glass: a biscuity base, rich dark chocolate notes, and a hint of sweetness to round things off.
Davide also has plans to bring the tomato gose back to York for a “returning” collaboration… if the sales team are brave enough! (He brought samples to help sway them.)
Collaboration #2 – Varvar (Kyiv)
Next up was Varvar, arguably Ukraine’s biggest name in craft beer. From humble beginnings, they now operate from a state-of-the-art brewhouse in Dniprovskyi District, where their taproom serves as a vital community hub.
Together with head brewer Anton, Davide brewed an 11% imperial stout, destined for both barrel-ageing and a fresh release with traditional Ukrainian twists. Two versions are planned:
- Smoked Pear – inspired by uzvar, a festive compote made by boiling dried fruits, honey, and spices. Expect subtle smoke and fruit complexity.
- Blackcurrant & Thyme – a classic Ukrainian pairing used in jams and preserves. The result? A rich, herbal-fruited stout with a bold identity.
Looking ahead, Davide hopes to collaborate on a sour beer using blackcurrant and thyme back here in York—an exciting new direction inspired by this trip.
A Journey to Remember
Throughout the journey, Davide met brewers, creatives, and friends who left a lasting impression. In the face of war, the Ukrainian beer scene remains incredibly passionate, determined, and full of life. Amid moments of joy, there were also sobering reminders of the ongoing conflict, like seeing the remains of a cruise missile that landed close to Varvar’s brewery.
This trip wasn’t just about new beers. It was about connection, solidarity, and using beer as a bridge between cultures.
What’s Next?
We’re proud to say that Brew York will be brewing two returning collaborations right here in the UK, helping showcase these amazing breweries and keep their stories alive. Watch this space for release dates, label art, and more.
And to our Ukrainian friends: thank you for the hospitality, the inspiration, and the beer. We’ll raise a glass to you—soon.
