New brew raises money for displaced Ukrainians

A new beer has been created in an effort to help displaced Ukrainians.

Saskatoon’s 9 Mile Legacy Brewing and the Yevshan Ukrainian Folk Ballet Ensemble have collaborated on a new brew called Yevshan Honey Wheat Ale, which is heavily inspired by the rich history and culture of Ukraine.

The project began in March after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Angela Wojcichowsky, an alumnus of the Yevshan Ukrainian Folk Ballet Ensemble, said they had done fundraisers in the past to give aid to the war-stricken country and wanted to do more.

“We have always talked about how cool it would be to have a beer with the Yevshan name on it.” Wojcichowsky says.

After enjoying a few pints in the past at the brewery, she said they wanted to create a beer that would be reminiscent of Ukraine.

“It will have a really important impact in Saskatoon,” she said.

Shawn Moen, the CEO and co-founder of 9 Mile Legacy Brewing, said it has been an emotional project to be involved in.

“We wanted to do something to respond to (the Ukraine) crisis,” Moen said, noting the goal was to ensure the beer was authentically crafted in a way that stays true to Ukrainian roots. “All of these little aspects take time to get right, and when you get it right, it’s really touching.”

The wheat ale — named after the dance company and the Yevshan herb — was crafted to create a sense of nostalgia for those who take a sip.

“They say when one smells the herb, it reminds them of their homeland,” Wojcichowsky says.

The honey and wheat are from local suppliers — Prairie Malt Limited, Makers Malt and Three Foragers. People can expect to taste a traditional wheat beer with a hint of sweetness from the honey.

“The reason we chose honey and wheat is that they are really important to the Ukrainian agricultural economy, which we know has been disrupted by this invasion,” Moen said.

When Wojcichowsky tried the beer for the first time in the brewery’s tap room, she said it reminded her of a little pub in Kyiv that she would visit with her work colleagues.

“It did have that mythical Yevshan sparkle in it,” she said.

Everything down to the label has been carefully crafted to represent Ukrainian heritage. Former Yevshan dancer and graphic artist Janelle Knihnitski created the design as an original piece for the brewery.

“It’s a reminder of what you can do around a great can of beer,” Moen says.

The wheat ale made its first debut Saturday at the Yevshan’s annual Ukrainian wedding fundraiser.

“We thought, ‘What a great opportunity to release the beer,’ ” Wojcichowsky said.

Unsurprisingly, all cases of beer ordered were sold for the event.

All of the proceeds of the beer’s sales will be donated to help displaced Ukrainians arriving in Canada. The brewing company will work closely with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress to best allocate the funds.

“We are so privileged to have the opportunity to work with (the brewery), and to work on something that is really close to our hearts,” Wojcichowsky said.

The sentimental creation is just one of the many ways Saskatchewan can preserve Ukrainian culture. The beer will be available in various liquor stores across the province.