Mark Young, the founder of BrewLoka, embarked on a remarkable journey from his days as a bass guitarist with the renowned 'Nu Metal' band hed(pe) [HED Planet Earth] to becoming a kombucha brewer. Originally hailing from northern England, Mark's introduction to kombucha occurred while residing in Newport Beach during the mid-1990s.
Fast forward a couple of decades filled with thousands of gigs, and Mark found himself in Bend, Oregon, where he established BrewLoka. He acquired his first SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast) from a wise old man in the Cascade Mountains and purchased one-gallon brewing jars from Jamie and Michelle, who were operating a small venture in a strip mall—now known as Humm Kombucha. As one of the pioneering breweries in the United States, BrewLoka became renowned for producing and selling Jun, a distinct variety of kombucha.
Two years ago, Mark returned to England, carrying a SCOBY nestled in his suitcase, and set out to brew kombucha in the vibrant city of Manchester.
An American Obsession
Observing the Category's Growth Mark possesses a unique perspective on the burgeoning popularity of kombucha on both sides of the Atlantic. He recalls savoring his first bottle when GT Dave, a prominent figure in the kombucha world, was just starting out. As a musician touring across the continental United States, Mark witnessed the spread of kombucha from its origins in California and Oregon to its widespread acceptance, even finding its way onto the shelves of retail giants like Costco and Wal-Mart. He experienced the frustration of being unable to find kombucha while on the road in places like Iowa and Michigan. Similarly, in 2017, locating kombucha in England proved to be a challenge. However, by 2018, the landscape had shifted rapidly, indicating kombucha's growing presence (a trend supported by our own informal research).
Belief in the Power of 'Booch, Brew Loka proudly labels their product as an 'Ancient Elixir,' a testament to Mark's unwavering belief in the inherent value of kombucha. For him, it is not solely about financial gain but rather a profound appreciation for kombucha's roots and significance:
"Kombucha sells itself in a small but growing way. I believe in kombucha. I don't just see it as a money-maker. Just like I didn't start practicing yoga to make money out of it, even though I ended up running a couple of yoga studios. Kombucha, much like yoga and music, has been around for as long as mankind. Its origins can be traced back thousands of years to China. So, whether we choose to commercialize it or not, kombucha is here to stay. I'll sell it to anyone interested, but I'll brew it regardless."
Delightful Flavor Offerings
BrewLoka delights kombucha enthusiasts with a variety of flavors to suit different palates:
-
Original: Crafted from organic black tea and organic cane sugar, this robust brew pours like a beer, offering a rich and satisfying experience.
-
Green Tea: Made with organic green tea and organic cane sugar, this variation yields a light and refreshing beverage, perfect for those seeking a revitalizing drink.
-
Cannabucha: Combining two Ancient Elixirs in one bottle, this unique creation infuses premium kombucha with Sacred Oil whole hemp plant extract, providing a harmonious fusion of flavors.
-
Jun: Using organic green tea and honey, BrewLoka's Jun stands out with its light hue and effervescent bubbles, creating a delightful drinking experience.
Unveiling the Mystical Legends of Kombucha
In addition to his deep appreciation for yoga, music, and the natural beauty of northern England, Mark's fascination extends to the enchanting legends surrounding the ancient elixir known as kombucha.
One captivating tale hails from the Far East, recounting how ancient Japanese Samurai warriors carried wineskin flasks filled with kombucha to invigorate and fortify themselves in the heat of battle. Another intriguing story takes us back roughly 900 years when the armies of Genghis Khan, as they conquered vast territories, were said to have relied on kombucha, carrying it in their trusty flasks.
Among these enthralling narratives, one holds a special place in Mark's heart—the legend of the Count of St. Germain. Rumored to have discovered immortality through the consumption of a mystical tea, the Count's story captivates the imagination and inspires awe.
Oh, to be blessed with such fortune!
Mark's affinity for the esoteric resonates deeply within his company's name—BrewLoka. "Loka," a Sanskrit word found in various religious traditions, signifies "world." This choice reflects Mark's reverence for the interconnectedness of cultures and his recognition of kombucha's ability to bridge ancient traditions and contemporary society.
As BrewLoka continues to craft its remarkable kombucha, the rich tapestry of legends and folklore continues to inspire and remind us of the extraordinary allure and enduring legacy of this remarkable elixir.
If you want to know more about the origins of BrewLoka and its founder Mark Young, take a listen to this awesome podcast from BoochNews