The author discusses the historical role of women in brewing beer, highlighting the fact that until the 14th century, women dominated the field. The alewife, or brewster, was responsible for a high proportion of ale sales in Europe. Brewing ale was a common domestic activity, and women took on the task to contribute to household incomes or support themselves. The author also mentions the Assize of Bread and Ale, which regulated the quality and pricing of ale in England. However, the role of alewives declined after the Plague in the 14th century and brewing became predominantly male. Today, women brewers continue to make their mark in the industry. Surprisingly, there was a time when alewives were persecuted for their financial independence.
https://daily.jstor.org/a-pint-for-the-alewives/