Jens Stoelken - founder - Ceremony Botanical Brews & co founder of The Many Jens Stoelken is the founder of Ceremony Botanical Brewing, a recently launched independent beverage brand based in Austin, Texas. Professional Background & Inspiration Heritage: Stoelken grew up in Germany, where he developed a deep appreciation for the cultural significance and heritage of beer. Japan Influence: In 2024, while traveling in Japan, he encountered a matcha beer at the Kyoto Brewing Company. This sparked the idea that botanicals could serve as the primary foundation for a new category of brewing, rather than just being used as a flavoring additive. The Concept: He returned to Austin to develop "Botanical Brewing," a category that treats botanicals as the "architect" of the drink. This involves building the entire recipe—balance, aroma, and structure—around the natural character of a specific plant. Current Venture: Ceremony Botanical Brewing