Annual Braille Ale release to raise awareness about vision loss

A local brewery is turning beer into a conversation starter about vision loss and accessibility.

West Side Brewing and the Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI) are teaming up once again to release Braille Ale – a limited-edition raspberry gose designed to raise awareness about the experiences of people who are blind or visually impaired.

Now in its sixth year, Braille Ale features a label printed with braille, making it one of the first beer cans in the country accessible by touch. The collaboration highlights the importance of inclusive design while supporting CABVI’s mission to help individuals adapt to vision loss.

A portion of sales – both on tap and in four-packs – will benefit CABVI’s programs, which serve more than 4,000 people each year across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Founded in 1911, CABVI provides comprehensive support services, including training, employment opportunities and adaptive tools for individuals with vision loss.

Braille Ale is a light sour ale brewed with raspberry and coriander. It will debut at a release party from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 26, at West Side Brewing on Harrison Ave. The event will feature Catch-a-Fire Pizza specials, blindfolded beer tastings and stacking games, a mystery touch game, a photo booth and a split-the-pot raffle. Q102’s Natalie Jones will host.

CABVI