Our Vision
Our vision is to create a vibrant and inclusive brewery that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Kansas City and uplifts the voices of our community. We aspire to craft innovative and delicious beers that honor the history and traditions of brewing, while also forging a new path for the future. By providing a welcoming atmosphere for all, we hope to build a bridge between the past and present, and foster a sense of pride and belonging for everyone who walks through our doors.
Our Mission
At Vine Street Brewing Co., we are dedicated to creating and sharing craft beers that are a reflection of the unique cultures and communities that inspire us. Our commitment to excellence is embedded in the DNA of our brand and we strive to bring people together over a shared love of quality beer. From coast to coast, we are dedicated to using our platform to celebrate diversity and inclusivity, and to continuously push the boundaries of what craft beer can be.
Our Inclusivity statement
At Vine Street Brewing Co., inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to creating a space where all are welcome and valued, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, or ability. We celebrate diversity and strive to foster an environment that encourages open dialogue, respect, and understanding.
Our brewery is a place where everyone can come together to enjoy great beer, live music, and vibrant cultural experiences. We are dedicated to showcasing the talents of artists, musicians, and creators from all walks of life, contributing to the rich tapestry of Kansas City's cultural identity.
Inclusivity goes beyond our taproom doors. We actively engage with our community, collaborating with local organizations and supporting initiatives that promote social justice and equality. Our commitment to inclusivity extends to our hiring practices, creating a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the diverse communities we serve.
At Vine Street Brewing Co., we believe that the power of unity and collective celebration can enrich lives and create positive change. We welcome everyone to be a part of our journey as we continue to build a brewery that embraces and celebrates the beauty of our shared humanity. Together, we raise our glasses to a future of inclusivity, camaraderie, and the joy of craft beer. Cheers to diversity, equality, and a community that stands together.
History in the making
In the heart of Kansas City, where the vibrant cultural heritage of the 18th & Vine district intertwines with the passion for craft beer, a visionary project took root. The brainchild of Kemet Coleman, a musician, creative, and devoted advocate for Kansas City's cultural identity, Vine Street Brewing Co. emerged as Missouri's first black-owned brewery.
The journey began when Kemet enlisted Woodie, a bold and adventurous award-winning homebrewer known for pushing the boundaries of brewing innovation. Their paths crossed at Boulevard Brewing Co., where Kemet gave tours, and Woodie's distinct brewing style left a lasting impression. Together, they dreamed of crafting a unique brewery that would redefine the beer landscape in Kansas City.
As the vision took shape, Elliott, with his engineer's mind and a reputation for clean, crisp, and consistent brewing, joined the team after originally turning down the idea. Woodie recognized Elliott as the perfect partner to complement his boundless creativity and ensure the highest standards of brewing excellence. Woodie's innovative spirit and Elliott's precision set the foundation for Vine Street Brewing Co.'s exceptional beers.
"This was not the plan. I used to tell people that I would never brew beer. That wasn't my thing."
Woodie Bonds, Jr., Co-founder of Vine Street Brewing Co.
Bonds, who had previously been hesitant about brewing beer, was convinced to try it by the Missouri Mashers Brewing Club. Since then, he has become passionate about experimenting with unique and exciting flavors, often incorporating unexpected ingredients into his brews.
As the construction phase neared, Kemet sought the expertise of Annie McGinnis, a seasoned leader with a knack for operations. Their paths had crossed years before at P.F. Chang's, where Annie had been Kemet's boss. Impressed by her leadership, Kemet knew she was the perfect candidate to take on the role of Director of Operations, steering the brewery toward success.
With Woodie's boldness, Elliott's precision, Annie's organizational finesse, and Kemet's deep passion for cultural enrichment, Vine Street Brewing Co. found its soul. Their combined dedication and creative force breathed life into the historic 150-year-old limestone building, catalyzing a transformation of South Vine Street and shaping a space that celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and the soulful spirit of Kansas City.
“I just want to say on behalf of everybody in Kansas City, on behalf of our community and on behalf of this Black kid who grew up in Kansas City, thank y’all for building this opportunity for all of us,”
Mayor Quinton Lucas, Mayor of Kansas City, MO
As Vine Street Brewing Co. continues to grow, its dedication to quality and creativity remains unwavering. Woodie's adventurous brewing style continues to impress, pushing the boundaries of flavor and introducing beer enthusiasts to exciting new tastes. Elliott's precision and attention to detail ensure that each beer is crafted to perfection, consistently delighting the brewery's loyal patrons.
Annie's organizational prowess has allowed the brewery to flourish, providing a seamless experience for visitors and ensuring that every event is a memorable one. And Kemet's passion for cultural enrichment, combined with his deep love for Kansas City, continues to drive the brewery's vision and mission forward.
Vine Street Brewing Co. is not just a brewery—it is a testament to the power of community, creativity, and perseverance. It stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when a shared vision brings together individuals with diverse talents and backgrounds. From its roots in the historic Jazz district to its blossoming presence in the Kansas City brewing scene, Vine Street Brewing Co. is a story of triumph, innovation, and the celebration of cultural identity.
Today, Vine Street Brewing Co. stands tall as a testament to the power of community, culture, and craft. It is a living testament to the collective vision of Woodie, Elliott, Annie, and Kemet, who, in the pursuit of excellence, brought their dreams to life, inspiring a city and leaving an indelible mark on the heart of Kansas City's craft beer scene. Their journey is a powerful tale of perseverance, collaboration, and the profound impact of embracing and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of a city.
Since its grand opening on June 30, 2023, Vine Street Brewing Co. has become more than just a brewery—it has become a vibrant gathering place for beer enthusiasts, musicians, and community members. The taproom buzzes with the soulful sounds of live music, often featuring local artists, while the aroma of innovative beers fills the air.
The brewery's commitment to inclusivity and diversity extends beyond its taproom doors. Vine Street Brewing Co. actively engages with the community, collaborating with local organizations and hosting events that celebrate the cultural fabric of Kansas City. Whether sponsoring art exhibits, supporting local charities, or hosting beer festivals, the brewery has become a true cultural hub, weaving itself into the very fabric of Kansas City.