Leading the Way: Meet the Women Shaping the Future of Massachusetts Beer

From left to right: Liz L’Etoile, MBG Treasurer, co-owner of the Brewery at Four Star Farms, Northfield, Mass., Sarah Real, owner and brewer at Hot Plate Brewing Co., Pittsfield, Mass., and Erica Tritta, co-owner of Twisted Fate Brewing, Danvers, Mass.

The Mass Brewers Guild is kicking off 2025 with a fresh infusion of talent. Three dynamic new board members—Liz L’Etoile, co-owner of the Brewery at Four Star Farms; Sarah Real, head brewer and owner of Hot Plate Brewing Co.; and Erica Tritta, co-owner of Twisted Fate Brewing Co., —have joined the board, each bringing a unique set of skills to strengthen and support the Massachusetts craft beer industry. From farming and data analytics to legal expertise, these leaders are ready to contribute to the industry's growth and success.

A strong and vibrant board is essential to directing and driving the Mass Brewers Guild forward, especially as the industry navigates new challenges and headwinds in the coming years. Board members serve two-year terms and act as the voice of the industry on Beacon Hill and within the media. They foster key relationships with local legislators, related industry associations, and travel and tourism groups—ensuring that when important decisions are being made, craft breweries have a seat at the table.

“The expertise and backgrounds of these new board members bring tremendous value to the Guild,” says Katie Stinchon, MBG Executive Director. “Their combined knowledge in farming, consumer insights, and legal expertise will help strengthen our advocacy efforts and support our craft beer community in meaningful ways.”

Fresh Perspectives, Stronger Industry: Meet Our New Board Members

Liz L’Etoile, new MBG board member and treasurer

Liz L’Etoile
Co-owner of the Brewery at Four Star Farms, Northfield, Mass.

A hops farmer turned brewery owner, Liz blends over a decade of experience in agriculture with her background in social work. Her passion for community-building and sustainable brewing makes her a perfect fit for the board.

Why did you want to join the Mass Brewers Guild board?

“I’ve been beer-industry-adjacent for 15 years and deeply involved for the last five. Our farm grows local ingredients for beer, and we built a brewery onsite to showcase them. As a small, rural brewery, I realized how important it is to connect with a larger organization and understand the industry’s ins and outs. No brewery is an island!”

Sarah Real, new MBG board member

Sarah Real
owner and brewer at Hot Plate Brewing Co., Pittsfield, Mass.

With a background in media research, Sarah brings a data-driven perspective to the board, helping breweries stay ahead of market trends and consumer preferences.

Why did you want to join the Mass Brewers Guild board?

“For me, it’s all about raising the tide for everyone. Craft beer is built on community, and I want to make sure consumers stay engaged and excited about what we’re brewing here in Massachusetts. Each brewery has its own unique focus and story—there’s truly something for everyone, and I want to help showcase that.”

Erica Tritta, new MBG board member

Erica Tritta
Co-owner of Twisted Fate Brewing, Danvers, Mass.
(with a second location opening in Revere soon!)

With over 15 years of legal expertise, Erica is ready to tackle the regulatory challenges facing breweries and ensure a solid foundation for the industry’s future growth.

Why did you want to join the Mass Brewers Guild board?

“I wanted to get more involved and give back to an industry that’s given me so much. Our brewery is still relatively new, but we’ve already benefited from being part of the Guild—through events, meetings, and the annual conference. Joining the board is my way of stepping up and helping fellow brewers navigate challenges and opportunities.”

Looking Ahead

With these new members on board, 2025 is set to be a pivotal year for the Mass Brewers Guild. From advocating for industry rights to strengthening local breweries, Liz, Sarah, and Erica are committed to making a difference.

They join board members JP Gallagher (board president) of Lost Shoe Brewing & Roasting Co., Sarah Lee (board vice president) of Hendler Family Brewing Co., Caleb Hiliadis of Amherst Brewing Co., and Zuzy Zvarova of Boston Beer Company. This marks the most diverse, women-led board in the history of the association, reflecting the evolving landscape of the craft beer industry. The future of Massachusetts craft beer has never been brighter.

Top row: JP Gallagher (board president) of Lost Shoe Brewing & Roasting Co., Caleb Hiliadis of Amherst Brewing Co., Liz L’Etoile (treasurer) of the Brewery at Four Star Farms, Northfield, Mass.

Middle row: Sarah Lee (board vice president) of Hendler Family Brewing Co., Sarah Real owner and brewer at Hot Plate Brewing Co., Pittsfield, Mass.

Bottom row: Erica Tritta Co-owner of Twisted Fate Brewing, Danvers, Mass., Zuzy Zvarova of Boston Beer Company.