Varsha Bhat
born in Bangalore, raised in Mumbai
and now brewing magic in Mannheim. What
began as curiosity has become a decade-long
passion for craft beer. Trained at the prestigious
VLB Institute in Germany, Varsha blends science
and soul in every brew.
She’s not just redefining beer; she’s redefining
roles, carving space for women in a
male-dominated industry. At Mannheim, brewing
is a family affair and collaboration is key.
In her words: “Drink Global, Brew Local.”
Can you elaborate on how your professional
endeavors contribute to your overall sense of
fulfilment and happiness?
Brewing isn’t just my profession; it’s my passion.
It combines creativity and precision, and I feel
connected to every step, from raw ingredients
to the final pour. Knowing my beer becomes part
of people’s celebrations is deeply rewarding.
The craft’s ever-evolving nature, use of local
ingredients and opportunities to mentor others
keep me inspired. For me, it’s a lifelong journey
of purpose and joy.
How do you want your work to influence the
way people experience craft beer?”
“I don’t just brew beer-I craft experiences” Each pint tells a story of ingredients, technique and tradition. I want drinkers to taste with curiosity, to connect with the craft and culture in every glass.
Through my work, I challenge stereotypes, spotlight local ingredients and celebrate beer as a rich, expressive art form. It’s not just about drinking-it’s about savouring every note; from aroma to mouthfeel.
“I don’t just brew beer-I craft experiences” Each pint tells a story of ingredients, technique and tradition. I want drinkers to taste with curiosity, to connect with the craft and culture in every glass.
Through my work, I challenge stereotypes, spotlight local ingredients and celebrate beer as a rich, expressive art form. It’s not just about drinking-it’s about savouring every note; from aroma to mouthfeel.
Which alcoholic beverage holds a special place
as your favorite indulgence?
Beer is the obvious choice; it’s at the core of
what I do and love.
Its variety, craftsmanship and constant evolution keep me endlessly inspired.
But when I want to slow down and savour something different, a good single malt is my quiet indulgence.
Its variety, craftsmanship and constant evolution keep me endlessly inspired.
But when I want to slow down and savour something different, a good single malt is my quiet indulgence.
There’s something
special about its depth, origin and elegance.
Each sip tells a story. It’s not just a drink, but a
moment to reflect and enjoy the finer side of
fermentation.
Share a behind-the-scenes glimpse into a
memorable project or collaboration that
brought together your passion for both
beverages and another interest or field.
Brewing a millet lager was deeply fulfilling, blending my passion for craft beer with sustainable, local ingredients. Overcoming challenges with farmers’ support, we created not just a new beer but a conversation starter. It reminded me why I brew: to innovate, honour heritage, and build community, one pint at a time.
Brewing a millet lager was deeply fulfilling, blending my passion for craft beer with sustainable, local ingredients. Overcoming challenges with farmers’ support, we created not just a new beer but a conversation starter. It reminded me why I brew: to innovate, honour heritage, and build community, one pint at a time.
As someone shaping the future of brewing,
what values or innovations do you want to be
remembered for?
I hope to be remembered for blending precision with purpose, merging traditional knowledge with a bold, locally inspired vision. While Germany shaped my technical skills, India drives my innovation with its ingredients and culture. My goal is to make brewing more inclusive, sustainable, and expressive, bridging science and creativity one brew at a time.
I hope to be remembered for blending precision with purpose, merging traditional knowledge with a bold, locally inspired vision. While Germany shaped my technical skills, India drives my innovation with its ingredients and culture. My goal is to make brewing more inclusive, sustainable, and expressive, bridging science and creativity one brew at a time.