“La Roja,” a peaceful beer brewed by former FARC ex-combatants
“La Roja” stands out in Colombia’s growing craft beer sceen—brewed and distributed by former FARC combatants in Tolima.
Wally Broderick played a key role in turning an idea into reality. Just months after the peace accord was signed between the Colombian government and FARC, he ventured into a settlement of ex-combatants with a vision: brewing beer. This initiative aimed not only to create jobs but also provide something even more vital—a sense of identity, purpose, and acceptance.
It wasn’t his first time there. Driven by a deep commitment to the peace process, Broderick had initially arrived as an English teacher, hoping to help former fighters develop language skills to support the regions’s tourism potential. However, the logistical demands of such a project required significant resources and time—both in short supply.
And so, he arrived in this remote, mountainous region of Colombia. In one of the community kitchens and dining spaces—ranchas, as they are known in guerrilla lingo—he stood before a crowd of eager students, introducing them to the basic ingredients of beer and the intricate brewing process.
The audience, about twenty to twenty-five people, was mostly young men, but also included older individuals and women of various ages. They were generally respectful and fully engage, though some occasionally stepped out, occupied with other tasks. Their questions were thoughtful and relevant, and he was struck by the meticulous detail of their note-taking.
After about an hour, the hands-on practice began. Most of those those who stayed until the end of that session remain part of the project today.
Though the beer wasn’t ready yet, its quality become clear once it emerged from the fermenter. When the time came, they opened it, smelled it, and tasted it—and the result was satisfying. Three cases of beer, brewed by ex-combatants, were shared with friends and supporters. With the funds raised, they acquired an additional fermenter, and from there, the journey continued.
But this isn’t just history—it’s the beginning of a story still being written. A story of a Colombia striving to overcome its violent past and present. Its future, much like this brew, is a work in progress—one that we hope will bring forth a new and beautiful reality.
La Roja has quickly become a synonym of hope, redemption, and reconciliation. ¡Salud!
