Ol’ George #42: 42

 

Ol’ George #42: 42.

Notes on #42:

1. It’s #42. I had to do it. Sorry for the spoiler, anyone who isn’t aware of this franchise from the past 47 years, the books, radio play, BBC tv show, motion picture, comic books, video games, rpgs, etc. 

I’m pretty sure I consumed the books first, back in the early 80’s, then TV & radio. Anything after that, I didn’t care. We won’t talk about it.

2. Okay, we will.My Zaphod and Marvin are based on their 1981 BBC TV incarnation. You couldn’t do much with special effects on a low budget in ‘81, so you could forgive Zaphod’s second head just sitting there, doing nothing. I think they dubbed some lines, or something?

But, 2005, you could put a second Sam Rockwell head up there and it would have worked, but they didn’t! And nothing against the great Alan Rickman, but I didn’t take to the new Marvin. And that is all that I will say about 2005 motion picture. There’s very little I like about it, aside from the cast. 

3. The Pan-Galactic Gargle Blaster is a drink created by Zaphod and is a cocktail based around Arcturan Mega-gin. We’re just pretending, for the sake of the gag, that this fictional drink is a beer.

Many years ago, I used to celebrate my birthday by creating a beer event at the Blue Nile, putting a disparate array of beers on tap, and urging my fellow beer kegs to join me. One time, a regular suggested that I create a “pan-galactic gargle blaster” from a mix of every beer on tap. I dutifully did so, and that’s all I will say about that. 

De Leite Enfant Terriple Blonde Triple

 De Leite Enfant Terriple Blonde Triple.

8.2 % ABV, 43 IBU, Brouerij de Leite, Oostkamp, Vlaams Gewest, Belgium. 

Clear, bright golden hue, ivory froth atop.

In the nose: bright, slightly spicy, hint of bubblegum. Some citrus. 

In the mouth: bold and beautiful. Bright and spicy, with increasing alcohol boarding the palate. Bubblegum feel is here, but not overpowering. Nice and warming. Just like I like ‘em. 

The love between Femme Fatale and Bon Homme issued a sprog! The first triple beer by Brewery De Leite was born. The couple baptised their first offspring under the name ‘Enfant Terriple’. A ‘unpredictable’ playful beer. (do you see the pun with ‘triple’?). The Enfant Terriple is a ‘devilishly’ sunny blond beer of 8.2 volume with a playful nose. A subtle bitterness with a faint-fine citrus touch that is enveloped in a sober spicy malt taste. The agreeable bitterness lingers long. For connoisseurs with a bright outlook on life.

Modist The Time Is Nigh Festbier

 Modist The Time Is Nigh Festbier. 

5.2 % ABV, Modist Brewing, Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

It’s time for my first Oktoberfest of the year. I’ve had this one in years past, but not one to drink at home and review. 

Clear, bright golden hue, full, lace-leaving ivory cap.

In the nose: fragrant and floral, absolute delight.

In the mouth: smooth and slightly sweet, delicious and malty. I don’t detect much from the oak-aging, but Modist seems to oak-age all of their lagers. This one is clean, crisp, and ultra downable. Quite tasty, too. 

Festbier brewed with German Barke Pilsner, Vienna and Munich malts. Kettle hopped with Bravo and Hallertau Mittelfruh. Then lagered and aged in our Oak Foeder for 4 weeks.

Tucher Bajuvator Doppelbock Dunkel

 Tucher Bajuvator Doppelbock Dunkel.

7.5 % ABV, Tucher Privatbrauwei, Nuremberg, Deutschland. 

Dark brown brew, with crimson edges, almost opaque,rich, creamy head atop.

In the nose: sweet and malty, cocoa tones with a touch of vanilla. Quite lovely.

In the mouth: malty, rich, sweet and just enough bitter for balance. Bready, delicious, warming. Rye and pumpernickel. A little chocolate, a little nutty. Get me to a bratwurst, now! Bring on the giant pretzel, mit mustard! 

I am thoroughly digging this, wish I could go back for more! 

Eine Spezialität die nicht nur zur Starkbierzeit schmeckt: kaffeefarbene Optik und eine besonders angenehme Vollmundigkeit mit dezenten Röstmalznoten.

Ol’ George # 41

 

Ol’ George # 41

Notes on # 41: 

1. It’s been a while for Chester, almost 5 months since he’s appeared. Got to rotate my regular supporting cast. Irma’s always, around, of course.

2. Is there a new regular on her way in? Stay tuned…

3. People ask me if George is based on me. Well, I’d never talk to my mom like that! I do owe her a call, come to think of it. 

4. George Herriman used to change up his logos with great frequency in “Krazy Kat”, so that’s been working its way in. Forgot to include “@ Kelly’s “, though.

Half Acre Beer Hates Astronauts IPA

 Half Acre Beer Hates Astronauts IPA.

7.8 % ABV, Half Acre Brewing, Chicago, IL. 

I enjoyed the comic book series, so I wanted to enjoy the beer. But it was $18 a 4-pack, and it’s now even barrel aged or imperial or nothing. (Although, 7.8% technically makes it a double…)So, I bought a single at $5, hope it’s worth it…

Clouded (wasn’t expecting that), orange hued, slim white head.

In the nose: citrus and pine, grapefruit and tangerine.

In the mouth: big blast of bitterness, slightly pulpy mouthfeel, loads of citrusy goodness on the palate. Bit of an alcohol burn. Fuller bodied. Altogether enjoyable.

India Pale Ale with Citra 

2025 edition 

Ursa Minor Drunk Gandalf Belgian-style Tripel Ale

 

Ursa Minor Drunk Gandalf Belgian-style Tripel Ale.

7.7 % SBV, 15 IBU, Ursa Minor Brewing, Duluth, Minnesota.

Clear, bright golden, slim white head.

In the nose: banana and bubblegum, right off the bat. Citrus and spice and everything nice. 

In the mouth: flood of sweet and spicy flavors blasts the palate. Bright and lively, sweet, strong, with consummate grit. Massive texture, thoroughly magical. Delicious Belgian maltiness, enchanting yeast, sublime hops. And that boozy lilt to take it all the way to Mt. Doom.

. “A beer is never late, it arrives precisely when it means to” -Gandalf. This beer is complex, light, floral, and spicy. The alcohol level has a warming quality about it that will kick you in the butt if you aren’t careful. Styrian Golding hops provide a clean bitterness that balances out the Belgian character of the beer.

Dangerous Man Last Call IIPA

 Dangerous Man Last Call IIPA. Cheers to the adventure of a lifetime. RIP Dangerous Man Brewing Co. 

9% ABV, 90 IBU, DMBC, Maple Lake, Minnesota. 

This, the last DMBC beer, was released back in March. I could have reviewed it then, but, no, I put it off for four months, because that’s me. 

Slightly clouded, bright golden, slim white head. 

In the nose: alcohol takes the lead, followed by citrus notes. Some tropical, grapefruit meets pineapple. 

In the mouth: bitterness sparks the tongue, before waves of fruity sensations wash over the palate. ABV comes roaring in. Medium body, easy drinkability (despite, etc.) Plentiful bitterness with exceptional flavors. 

I might have said something slightly different back when it was fresher, but that’s how it goes. Cheers, Rob & Sarah, you left a great legacy! 

Summit Cold Brew Coffee Blonde Ale

 Summit Cold Brew Coffee Blonde Ale. Brewer with Bizzy Cold Brew. 

4.1% ABV, 23 IBU, Summit Brewing, St. Paul, MN. 

This one came in a variety pack that was released last year. According to the stamp on the bottom, it was canned a year and a week ago. But, I’m reviewing it anyway. Because that’s how I clean my fridge.

Clear, bright golden color, slim white head. 

In the nose: nice and toasty coffee aromatics. Rich and abundant in earthiness. 

In the mouth: there’s the coffee from the start, and it’s nothing but smooth. Light-bodied, with never-ending coffee flavor. Good stuff. Held up pretty well. I’d have another. 

A clean, light bitter blonde ale brewed with Bizzy Cold Brew Coffee, this brew will give you strong notes of coffee and hints of milk chocolate.

Ol’ George #40: Seasonability

 

Ol’ George #40: Seasonability

Notes on #40

1. This one is non-canon, an Elseworlds, a hoax, a dream, an imaginary tale. There’s no way that George would stay away from his favorite bar and bartender for 10 weeks. It’s all in service of the gag. 

2. I came up with this one last Friday, when I returned to work after several days off and checked the cooler to what new beers came in, nothing but Oktoberfests, in the week of July, first week of August. That’s how it is, folks.

I started drawing it that night, but just finished it today.

I specifically thought of a regular customer who asked for a recommendation around this time last year. I suggested a local märzen I liked that just came in, and his response inspired George’s dialogue. Okay, we’ll stick to IPAs. The very next week he came in looking for that beer, having tried it at a friend’s house. Too late, sold out!

We want to sell out of that style by October’s end, because there isn’t a Novemberfest. 

3. I just recently finished Dan Nadel’s  new biography of R. Crumb, so I gave a bar stool to Mr. Natural, drinking a Mr. Natur Ale. In panel two, we see his disciple Flakey, having a Foont’s Finest.

4. In all my time managing bars, I never once did a tap takeover. Oh, I held plenty of beer events,  based on many themes, arranged around a myriad of breweries and styles. But I never once used that stupid name. But Irma’s not me, and I am certainly not calling her stupid. 

BlackStack Focus Group:Simcoe Single Hop West Coast Style IPA

 BlackStack Focus Group:Simcoe Single Hop West Coast Style IPA.

7.1% ABV, BlackStack Brewing, St. Paul, MN.

Clear, bright golden, slim white head.

In the nose: highly hopped, floral, slightly tropical tones, with a whiff of grapefruit, Sauvignon blanc, and litter box. 

In the mouth: high bitterness, bold hops, with a long, dry, abrasive finish. My kind of thing. That pop of white wine mingled with citrus and pine. Goes down nice and easy, with a pinch of sweetness/ fruitiness to match the bitterness. 

I like it. 

Before we get to the beer, I just need to get your opinion on a couple things. Focusing all of our attention on simcoe hops. Can I get a show of hands on who’s ready to crush one of these bad boys?

Ol’ George #39

 Ol’ George #39.

Notes on #39:

1. Who am I making fun of here? Oh, people that I talk to every day? I remember in the late 2000’s, someone walking into my bar and asking “got any James Page on tap?” But it goes beyond that. Yeah, Anchor Steam closed two years ago and they didn’t get the news, a brewery stops distributing and they never heard, but when it’s a matter of years, I wonder how often they buy beer. Oh, you haven’t noticed no one makes that style anymore? It’s been years!!!

Also, people with a hidebound attitude of what good beers are, who have no idea that things change, people, and it’s probably your fault for not supporting those styles. 

2. I came up with this idea months ago when it made sense to wear that kind of hat. Now that it’s July, I’ve decided that he’s the kind of man who would always wear it. Even in 90 degree weather. 

3. I know that the wife with no lines is only the second human female (versus two avians) (oh, plus Hello Kitty) in this strip’s history. This will change, I promise! 

4. Only the second strip where George has no lines. I thought that he needed a break. 

Ol’ George #38: Super Duper

 

Ol’ George #38: Super Duper.

Notes on #38:

1. Did I do Superman for #38 because he debuted in Action Comics #1 in 1938? Maybe.

2. After I wrote this, I realized that it is plagiarizing a t-shirt I bought at the August Schell Brewery gift shop years ago. The front has an amalgamation of the S on his chest and the A & S of their logo, with a stag thrown in for good measure. The back reads: I make beers disappear, what’s your super power?

I decided to draw it anyway.

3. James Gunn’s new movie informs us that Kryptonians can’t become intoxicated under Earth’s yellow sun. But we all know Kal-el drinks for the flavor. 

4. Easter egg for the hardcore Silver Age fans out there. Flamebirds are Kryptonian avians that reside in a zoo along with nightwings, in the bottle city of Kandor. For some reason, Supes and Jimmy Olsen become superheroes named Nightwing and Flamebird in the bottle city…I’m sorry, I can’t even type this anymore…

Superman dances the Krypton Crawl in Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen #…nope, I won’t look it up… 

I might actually have more Jimmy Olsen comics than Superman…no, I won’t count, I don’t want to know…

5. Somehow, Kelly’s stocks bottles of Yule Cat, a coconut & cacao nib bourbon barrel aged imperial porter from Sisyphus Brewing that debuted on tap in late 2023 and in early 2024 in bottles with a label designed by me. My second beer label, hopefully not my last. George really wants his own beer. 

Falling Knife Tomm’s Classic American Lager

 Falling Knife Tomm’s  Classic American Lager.

4.8 % ABV, Falling Knife Brewing, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Clear, bright yellow, full ivory head, soon slimming.

In the nose: light hops, slightly citric, touch of cereal grain, typical light lager nose, but done well. 

In the mouth: much lemon. Kiss off the hops. Lightness of body, smooth drinkability, utterly pleasant. Wisp of malt. High quality. I get it. It’s what would happen if Hamm’s wasn’t so damned cheaply made and terribly boring. 

Our take on a Classic American Lager, the kind of beer you pound while building a brewery

Half Acre Daisy Cutter Union West Coast IPA

 Half Acre Daisy Cutter Union West Coast IPA. Brewed in collaboration with Firestone Walker Brewing Company.

7% ABV, Half Acre Brewing, Chicago, IL.

In the label illustration, the lion and bear of FW are met with the daisies and the owl of HA, but where is the squid? What happened to squid owl? I’ve got to know! 

Clear, bright golden, lush and lasting snowy head. 

On the nose: blast of citrus and pine, waves of dank. Richly resinous. Heady hoppiness. 

In the mouth: big bitterness from the first sip and continuity into the swallow. Surprisingly smooth and delightfully malty. Bitterness mellows some for complexity and delicious flavors to come in. Citrus notes with a basic brush with tropical tones. 

We're now so proud to announce this collaboration with Firestone Walker, as we brew a clear, bitter, hoppy, West Coast IPA that features a newly developed hop from the Hop Quality Group breeding program – HQG#4 – paired with Krush and Simcoe. We're honored to share the label with Firestone Walker and excited to share this West Coast IPA with you. HOPS: HQG#4, Krush, Simcoe

Ol’ George #37: The Birds

 Ol’ George #37: The Birds

Notes on #37: 

1. My idea list hasn’t dipped under 50, and the reason is that I keep coming up with new ones. I was going to do a different one yesterday. But the brain started working on a new idea after I passed a turkey on the side of the road as I biked to Steel Toe. What would she do at Kelly’s bar? Accuse him of bird bashing, after last week’s strip. Of course, Irma would join in, and, naturally, Tweety. Would any bird step up to defend him? Of course, Big Bird, and Snuffy.

2. I thought I would bring Oscar into the strip before these two.

3. Okay, okay, I will go back to doing some strips “about beer” and not all comic strip and cartoon guest stars. Or maybe not. 

Little Thistle Double Elbow Wagon Lager

 

Little Thistle Double Elbow Wagon Lager Dry-hopped Wheat Lager. Collaboration w/ Live Oak Brewing, Austin, Texas.

Lightly hazed, bright yellow, ivory head atop. 

In the nose: fresh & hoppy, notes of citrus, slight floral.

In the mouth: big hops at the start, with lemony flavor coming through. Crisp and, mostly, clean. Refreshing, with more flavor and body than a typical lager, which this is not. Exceptionally smooth. Quite tasty. 

Sometimes stories take on lives of their own. "Wagon Lager" started as "Lithuanian Wagon Lager" many years ago, a fictional tale about an apocryphal style of heavily-hopped lager brewed primarily with wheat malt by Baltic pioneers in wagons. Where were they coming from or going to? Not sure, but their destination was well-supplied with choice wheat and hops. Being chill folks, they decided to roll with it, and a new tradition was born.

To date, Double Elbow has been a project that attempts to faithfully recreate foundational styles. You can look at Wagon Lager one of two ways - either we've jumped the shark a bit here, or we're productively expanding the definition of "foundational." We're ok with whichever. 

Brewed in collaboration with my good friends and former co-workers at Live Oak Brewing in Austin, TX, Wagon Lager is a crispy clean, smooth-brewed lager hopped intensively with low-alpha Crystal on the hot side, and dry hopped with the best Cascade Cryo and Simcoe I could lay my hands on. I spent months working on a top-secret hoppy lager at Live Oak in 2012, code-named Hop Sodie, and I'm proud to say that Wagon Lager is its true spiritual successor. 

Or maybe it's just a West Coast Pils with a lot of wheat malt. Either way, you should drink it. 

Details 

Barrel Theory Old Money Double West Coast IPA

 

Barrel Theory Old Money Double West Coast IPA w/ Simcoe, Citra T-90, Chinook Cryo & Columbus Cryo.

7.9 % ABV, Barrel Theory Brewing, St. Paul, Minnesota. 

Clear, bright golden hue, slim ivory head.

In the nose: big time pine and citrus, resiny, dank. Delivering the goods. 

In the mouth: brisk, bright, crisp, delicious. Bitter and dry. All the citrus is popping on the palate, lemon and grapefruit, orange, tangerine. Blazes the tongue with a payload of hoppiness. Lingers long on the palate.

This one is flat-terrific. Thanks, Ed!

Ol’ George #36: Mo’ Kitty Blues

 

Ol’ George #36: Mo’ Kitty Blues

Notes on #36:

1. There have been only two occasions when a fake beer is advertised on the walls of Kelly’s Bar and they have both been bird-themed. Is this Irma’s (the emu bartender/bar manager) way to support her own species? How could I use that for a future strip, I wondered….and I thought about the great scene in Spike Lee’s classic 1988 film “Do The Right Thing “ and it just wrote itself. Well, Spike wrote it…

2. Barn Owl Bitter is fictitious, but there is a Barn Owl brewpub in British Columbia. There is a Kiwi lager in New Zealand, or was. Emu (Export & Bitter) is real. . The Brouwerij’Tij of the Netherlands is completely real. Why is a Dutch brewery using an African bird for its logo? Why not? (And what of Carlsberg Elephant?) 

3. George is playing the part of Buggin’ Out from the film, originally played by Giancarlo Esposito. Irma performs the role of Sal, first played by Danny Aiello. 

4. In panel two, we see Hello Kitty, who truly doesn’t belong, because according to Sanrio lore, she is an 8-year old human girl living in England, who pretends to be a cat? Whatever….

And the image of R. Crumb’s Fritz the Cat is taken from the 1964 story “Fritz Bugs Out”. (Buggin’ Out?)

5. George’s companions in panel three are there to illustrate the different ways that cats can wear hats. The  Cat in the Hat sits his squarely in the middle of his head, leaving his ears alone. Top Cat (the star of a 1961 Hanna Barberra cartoon ) has actual slots in his hat, allowing for his ears to poke through. And George plops his hat on his head, flattening his ears, and doesn’t give a shit. 

6. Is Irma gonna smack George on the head with that baseball bat, as Sal almost did to Buggin’ Out? There’s no John Turturro there to stop her…let’s imagine another panel where, oh, I don’t know, Chester steps in…

7. I don’t know if the Cat in the Hat will appear again, so I’ll use this opportunity to drop this lore bomb. Theodore “Dr. Seuss” Geisel’s grandfather was the co-owner of a brewery in Springfield, Massachusetts.  It was called Kulmbach & Geisel, but the locals called it “Come Back and Guzzle.” You’re welcome!!

Pipe works If The Shoe Fits West Coast Style India Pale Ale with Waimea and Cryo Simcoe

 Pipe works If The Shoe Fits West Coast Style India Pale Ale with Waimea and Cryo Simcoe.

7% ABV, Pipeworks Brewing, Chicago, IL. 

Clear with a slight chill haze, bright golden hue, slim white head. 

In the nose: soft citrus and pine. 

In the mouth: nice bitterness up front, but not as brittle and dry as I’d like. I’m not up on my Waimea, and I’m not thoroughly well versed on cryo and what it’s supposed to do, but there are some undefinable flavors that don’t quite match what I look for in a West Coast IPA. Light bodied, easy drinking, just enough bitterness, but doesn’t really deliver. 

Ol’ George #35: Metaphysical Funnies

 

Ol’ George #35: Metaphysical Funnies

Notes on #35: 

1. We’re getting so meta now. Will this continue? Sometimes. If it serves the gag. 

2. The ending steals from the finale of Chuck Jones and Michael Maltese’s 1953 classic Looney Tune, “Duck Amuck.” I am playing the Bugs Bunny role. 

Junkyard Yardwork Session IPA

 Junkyard Yardwork Session IPA.

4% ABV, Junkyard Brewing, Moorhead, Minnesota. 

Well, they got me. I don’t see New England or Vermont or “hazy” anywhere on the label, but sure enough, it pours all hazy. I’m going to pretend it doesn’t bother me. 

Just a reminder that I don’t review hazies anymore. If I get one as a sample or in a variety pack, I’ll drink it without comment. I certainly never buy them. 

Fuzzy, cloudy, slim white head, all orangey. 

In the nose:  bright citrus, lemon, orange, grapefruit. 

In the mouth: nice bitterness up front that fades, but returns with each new sip. Light bodied, low alcohol, but it needs to be cleaner and clearer. Too much business going on in the mouth for a true session IPA.

But what do I know?

This is the story of an amazing new kind of liquid handy-man that will help you do just about every one of those tough, back-breaking chores you have learned to dread. 

This is the story of the revolutionary, new, all-purpose, extra-handy, SESSION IPA!!

Now taking care of your yard can be a JOY instead of a HEADACHE! 

Featuring Galaxy and Citra Hops!

Dangerous Man Peach Citra Sour

 Dangerous Man Peach Citra Sour.

6.7 % ABV, 20 IBU, Dangerous Man Brewing, Maple Lake, MN. 

Yes, I have some DMBC cans hanging on. Quite a few, actually. Why not go ahead and review it? Doesn’t matter if you’ll never be able to go out and buy one. You’ll allow me that, right?

Mostly clear, bright golden hue, slim white head. 

In the nose: peachy.

In the mouth: bright, peachy, citrusy, tart. Highly drinkable. No bitterness, no sweet, just straight up sour , with plenty of peach. A delightful blend of fruit and funk. 

Ol’ George #34: People Skills

 

Ol’ George #34: People Skills 

Notes on #34

1. I finished a strip a week for over 7 months, but the streak ended last week when I spent Monday working on a color piece. This was started last Thursday and finished tonight, so I’m calling it last week’s, turned in late. (Shh, don’t tell..) If I finish another one this week, I’m back on track. I have dozens of ideas I can’t wait to get to. 

2. Maybe you think George is referencing some album/song  by Oasis. It’s actually from the Mary Lou Williams tune recorded by Andy Kirk and his 12 Clouds of Joy in 1938. If the phrase predates that I can’t find it. 

3. This is Greg’s first time at Kelly’s. He’s not used to bars with talking cats. Did he come with Balonious? Are they friends? Balonious is still trying to figure out the “reality “ of Kelly’s. 

4. The whole beard without mustache thing is something I can’t figure out. Why bother shaving your lip? It just looks weird.

5. In panel three, George is referencing “Good Time Charlie’s Got the Blues” by Danny O’Keefe, 1972.

6. Should Greg return? Vote in the comments!

Arbeiter Net J. Carver Brandy Barrel Aged Belgian Quad

 Arbeiter Net J. Carver Brandy Barrel Aged Belgian Quad.

10.4 % ABV, Arbeiter Brewing, Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Solid darkness, fully opaque, slim, cocoa-toned head. 

In the nose: mmmm, barrel-y! (Says Pee Wee H.) Big and malty. Rich and caramel-y. Slightly smoky. 

In the mouth: here comes toffee and caramel, bounding out of the gate. Brandy barrel hugs the edges. Alcoholic warmth spreads everywhere. Cool and calm, while big and boisterous. Take it either way you like it.

Why am I drinking a beer like this on a hot summer night? You can drink anything anytime as long as you’re safe at home, late, late at night. 

Unmapped Final Destination Helles Lager

 Unmapped Final Destination Helles Lager. 

5.2 % ABV, 18 IBU, Unmapped Brewing, Minnetonka, Minnesota.

Light, the label says. Also, “breezy.” Well, it’s 95 degrees out, so that’s exactly what I need. 

Pale golden color, transparent, with a large white head that drifts down quickly. 

In the nose: lightly hopped, slightly malty, soft hints of cereal grains. 

In the mouth: light bodied, smooth, crisp, refreshing. Nice maltiness, just the kiss of the hops. Great balance of bitter and sweet. 

I’m liking this, and I’m normally not a lager liker. 

Final Destination Helles is a German style lager.  This beer is the perfect pounder for all occasions.  With a rich golden appearance and a nice malty aroma on the nose, this refreshing lager is the perfect beer to pair with Brats, mild cheeses, or even a lemon sorbet.

Summit Saga Sensation IPA

 Summit Saga Sensation IPA.

5.2% ABV, 55 IBU, Summit Brewing, St. Paul, MN. 

From the Summit Saga Goddess Series variety pack. What makes a “sensation IPA” and how does one join the Saga brand family? That is what we endeavor to discover. 

Clear, golden hued, bright ivory head, long lasting. 

In the nose: slightly citrus aromatics.

PIn the mouth: blasts of bitterness, altogether dry. Easy drinking. Medium bodied, just a touch juicy, but mostly brittle and dry. I rather like it. 

Hammerheart Jormungandr’s

 Hammerheart Jormungandr’s. Rye Pale Ale.

7.5!% ABV, Hammerheart Brewing, Ely, Minnesota.

I’ve had this one twice before this 4-pack, when it was called Jormungandersblod. In May of 2016, at the brewery taproom, and two years later, when I tapped it Acadia Cafe. Neither was an occasion for note taking. Let’s take care of that at last, with, again, the final can. 

Murky, brownish, beige ring of foam. 

In the nose: slight smoke, bigger caramel, and then along comes rye. Spicy rye malt notes emerge. Just lovely. 

In the mouth: more maltiness floods the palate. Rich, robust, smooth, delicious. Nice bitterness throughout. Never quite quits and blends wonderfully with earthy, peppery malts. 

Another Hammerheart beer that I fully enjoyed. 

Little Thistle Export Stout

 Little Thistle Export Stout.

4.2 % ABV, 22 IBU, Little Thistle Brewing, Rochester, MN. 

Solid blackness, utterly opaque, slim brown head. 

In the nose: malty, sweet, roasted notes. 

In the mouth: sweetness on the palate, smooth, caramel-y, notes of toffee, coffee. Medium bodied, exceptionally easy drinking. Very tasty. 

I’d happily go back for more. 

Collaboration with Modist Brewing. Export Stout. Notes of chocolate and coffee, designed to have several. Inspired by the original. 

Ol’ George #33: Balonious’ Funk

Ol’ George #33: Balonious’ Funk

Notes on #33:

1. Another one I’ve had in the hopper for a while. Couldn’t decide on an ending. I’m happy with this one. 

2. George doesn’t tolerate beer geek wishy-washiness. If it’s a beer, you drink it. (Unless it’s peanut butter pickle porter.) 

3. “Is it true?” Some may ask about Balonious’ dialogue. To each their own! I just grabbed some random hop names. Feel however you want to. “Ew, Mosaic tastes like onions…” As George told him in his first appearance, you be you, Sonny Jim…up to a point. 

4. Too late, Irma! By the way, the last time I drew Irma, I forgot her apron, leaving her naked behind the bar. Let’s forget that happened. 

Junkyard Coco Mondo Coconut Cream Ale

Junkyard Coco Mondo Coconut Cream Ale. 

4.7% ABV, Junkyard Brewing, Moorhead, MN.

Clear-ish, golden-hued, skim white head. 

In the nose: got the coco-, got the nut. Big time toasted. 

In the mouth: loaded with coconut, light bodied, easy-drinking. Solid cream ale base. Not too much else to say. If you like coconut, go for it. If you’re like Charlie Brown and every other character in Peanuts, stay away.

This coconut cream ale is brewed with toasted coconut and is sure to transport you to paradise!

Ol’ George #32: Mad Monk

 

Notes on #32:

1. This is the fourth in the series where George meets representatives of beers, assesses them in front of them, and delivers a smart ass response. I knew I wanted to do Rasputin, as a fan of the beer for oh, 25 years, at least, but couldn’t think of a gag. Until I heard a coworker sing the song. Thanks, Ezra! 

2. All of these strips so far have been inked with felt tip pens and markers. When I was younger, I tried to do everything with nib pens and brushes, like my cartoonist heroes, but wasn’t always successful. One of these days I’m going to give myself enough time to do one all with brush and that’ll be great.

A couple weeks ago, I did my first Ol’ George illustration inked with brush and colored with watercolor. This will be available as a sticker that I will be giving out in person while supplies last. 

I intend to redo it and make the new version available for sale in a variety of forms on a website very soon. Hold yer horses, the George merch is coming!

Steel Toe Worn Sole Imperial Alt

 Steel Toe Worn Sole Imperial Alt.

8.5 % ABV, Steel Toe Brewing, St. Louis Park, MN. 

Dark brown color, slim tan head, nearly opaque.

In the nose: cocoa, coffee, caramel. Slightly sweet.

In the mouth: more of the same on the palate, rich and robust. Practically delicious. Full bodied. This brings to mind the king of this style, the Urrige Doppelsticke. That’s a compliment. 

It’s been gone for a bit, and I deeply regret not buying more than one six pack. So very tasty. 

Aromas of dark caramel, toffee, raisin, and slight spice. 

Ol’ George #31: Canned Corn

 

Notes on #31:

1. This was one of the first ideas I came up with, way back in October. Something was nagging me about it, though. It seemed like Norm joke from “Cheers.” I’ve seen every episode, so perhaps it burrowed into my brain. I had to be sure of it, but I wasn’t going to watch them all over again. I searched the internet and watched YouTube compilations. Nothing came up. Okay, I did my due diligence. When George Wendt passed away last week, I added the second half. 

2. During my deep dive of YouTube, encountered a clip that demonstrated that my strip #13 from January apparently plagiarized Cheers. In their version, Frasier recites “The Raven” and states “that was Poe”,  whereupon Coach tells him “don’t be modest, it was great.” I swear I’d forgotten all about it. 

3. The laugh track joke I stole from myself. Way back in my high school newspaper comic strip, “Lenny.” I don’t have copies to prove it, though. Steal from the best, am I right? 

Ol’ George #30: It’s a Feature...

 Notes on #30

1. Wait, what kind of a bar serves dogs, talking cats, and giant cockroaches? Where’s the health department? We’re in a different world here, people. Repeat to yourself, it’s just a comic strip, I should mreally just relax. 

2. This might be out of character for Ol’ George. Sitting on the patio means leaving Irma alone inside the bar. Depriving her of his jokes and smartassery.  It probably won’t happen again, I did it just for this gag. 

3. At first, I wanted to call the big bug Greg, a nod to Frank Kafka’s unfortunate Gregor Samsa, who was turned into some manner of insect in the short story “The Metamorphosis.” But I finally won an argument with myself in favor of bringing out a character I created in my teenage years. Cuddles was pet to the eccentric Granny Giuseppe, and there were possibly other characters. Unless someone can prove otherwise, I wrote stories about these characters, but never published them, or showed them to anyone. I drew them, but never made comics about them. Again, maybe I did, can’t remember, and all evidence is lost. Maybe Granny will appear soon? Is this the beginning of....the Alniverse?!?

Ol’ George #29: Last Orders

 

Notes on #29:

1. Nothing to explain, just George being a smart ass again, getting Irma’s goat. And she always starts out so positive. One of these days, George, one of these days…

2. We haven’t seen Riblet in 24 episodes. I had intended to use him as more of a regular character, but I haven’t pinned down his look. I’m sure his Mama don’t mind. 

3. If you look look back at Balonious’ previous appearances, there isn’t a human among the crowd. (Wait, I’ve never drawn a crowd…some day..) He’s never made Chester’s acquaintance. He wasn’t there to see Tom Waits, Thelonious Monk, Santa Claus, David Lynch, or that couple doing Dry January. He doesn’t even know that…whoops, I’m getting ahead of myself…

Three Floyds Chain Sword Extra Pale Ale

 Three Floyds Chain Sword Extra Pale Ale.

5% ABV, Three Floyds Brewing, Munster, Indiana.

From the latest variety pack. 

Clear, golden hued, short white head. 

In the nose: slightly citrusy, brisk and lively. 

In the nose: lemon and lime lead the charge on the palate. Crisp and clean, light bodied and refreshing, with an incessant bitterness that pleases the tongue. Goes down nice and smooth. Highly likable.

Not as clumsy or random as other extra pale ales, Chain Sword was brewed with Golden Promise Malt and El Dorado hops - an elegant beer for a more civilized age

Inbound Fruit of the Double Loop West Coast Double IPA

 Inbound Fruit of the Double Loop West Coast Double IPA.

9% ABV, 90 IBU, Inbound BrewCo., Minneapolis, Minnesota 

Clear, bright golden hue, small white head. 

In the nose: floral, fruity, hoppy, citrusy with a drop of the tropical.

In the mouth: bitterness and dank fruity flavors set the palate ablaze. Slightly sticky icky. It’s got the hops. Tantalizing. Full-bodied, generously flavored, a true hophead’s delight. 

So, congrats, Inbound, on nine years, though I can’t condone the spelling error on the label. (“Fruit Loop-esk”? Oh, brother!)

This is one I will probably return to before it disappears. 

9th Anniversary double West Coast IPA. We took our Fruit of the Loop recipe and jacked it up to 9%. We then applied the same quantity of hops we’d add to a 30bbl batch and crammed them in to a 15bbl tank. The result is absurdly hoppy and dangerously easy drinking.

Oliphant Snail Pale Pale Ale

 Oliphant Snail Pale Pale Ale.

5% ABV, Oliphant Brewing, Somerset, Wisconsin. 

Collaboration with Sea Salt Eatery, Minnehaha Falls on the shell limns the connection.

Clear, bright golden / orange hue, fine white froth rests atop. 

In the nose: bright citrus zest, bold orange and grapefruit. Perfect.

In the mouth: bitterness greets the palate, kisses the lips and coats the tongue. Fiercely hoppy, fresh and expertly drinkable. Medium to light bodied. Long, bittersweet finish. Infinitely enjoyable.

I’ll tell you this, people: I don’t know how pale ales fell out of favor, but it’s got to stop. There ain’t nothing like a good one, and this one is that. 

In Collaboration with those saltwater sweeties over at Sea Salt Eatery in MPLS, this pale ale drinks like it would've over a decade ago. A little malty, a little bitter and hoppy; most of all, delish! Snail on chums!

Ol’ George #28: Baby

 

Notes on #28:

1. I’d just like to point out that this is week 25 of finishing a strip by Monday night, six months running. I’m really proud of that. (The first three don’t count. #1 was done in early October of last year and not deemed finished until a month later. #’s 2 & 3 were both done in a rush and I’m not terribly proud of them. So, I count from #4, 11/11. 

2. I put George and Baby at opposite ends of each panel then had to figure what to put between them. Answer: Balonious! But, wouldn’t that alter the flow of their conversation, by having him speak (or think) between them? Yes, but, that’s why I used a different pen point for him, a lighter weight to his lettering, and I liked to play off that awkwardness that happens when two people at a bar are talking and ones in the middle, does he try to join in or start talking to someone else? Or just stare at his beer? 

Wooden Ship Ofstead Norwegian Farmhouse Ale

 Wooden Ship Ofstead Norwegian Farmhouse Ale.

5.6 % ABV, Wooden Ship Brewing, Minneapolis, MN. 

Lightly clouded, golden toned, large and lasting ivory head. 

In the nose: Smokey, peppery…is this a Hammerheart beer? Everything else is minor.

In the mouth: citrus zest, hops, but low bitterness, and unrelenting, lingering Smokey, peppery sensations, though not as strong as in aromatics. Light and refreshing as a farmhouse ale should be, but loaded with character. Goin’ down nice and easy. 

A Norwegian Farmhouse Ale that is slightly funky and smokey with mild citrus notes.

Ol’ George # 27: Zip a Tone

 

Notes on #27:

1. If this one reads like a non-sequitor, then I have done my job. I first encountered Zippy in a B. Dalton Bookseller in 1985 when I bought a copy of “Are we Having Fun Yet? Zippy the Pinhead’s 29 Day Guide To Random Activities and Arbitrary Donuts.” I’ve spent the past 40 years keeping up and catching up. He’s been around since 1971, and still going!

2. George’s beer, Old Crab is a nod to a barleywine of long ago, Rogue Old Crustacean. And that George is a big Ol’ Crabbypants. 

3. I won’t explain Zippy’s dialogue. If you know him, you get it. Laundry is the 5th dimension! Zombies rule Belgium! Frivolity is a stern taskmaster! Legalize Loni Anderson’s hair! 

Ol’ George #26: Brew Monk

 

Notes on #26:

1. I have a long history as a fan of American jazz composer & pianist Thelonious Sphere Monk (1917-1982).  I put a lot of back story in my review of North Coast Brother Thelonious in my blog post back in 2012. Go check it out. 

2. I once had a Brother Thelonious glass sent to me by the brewery (along with a tap handle, coasters, t-shirts, and an CD of a band they put together, the Brother Thelonious Quintet!) and it did indeed say Straight No Chaser on it.  When it broke during a move nine years ago, I paused in sentimental contemplation, whereupon my friend remarking that he heard me say that I have too many glasses as it is. Yeah, but that’s one I wanted to keep. I can’t find a replacement anywhere, but I’ll keep looking. 

3. Flatted Fifths aren’t really the main thing to think of when it comes to Monk’s music, but it sounds funnier than dissonance, angularity or atonality.

4. The “you’ll flip” quote appeared in the documentary “Straight No Chaser”, but I haven’t seen it in a while. Can’t find it on YouTube. So, I got it partially wrong, so what. He actually said “I Mean, for real!” I bet he said it a lot of ways. 

5. Is George a jazz lover?  Of course he is, he’s a hep cat! (My first cat was named Hepzibah so I could call her “hep cat.” Hepzibah is the name of the French skunk who dwells in the Okeefenokee swamp in Walt Kelly’s “Pogo”. And the bar George drinks at is named for him. Full circle!)

Back Channel Sky Crasher West Coast IPA

 Back Channel Sky Crasher West Coast IPA .

7.5 % ABV, Back Channel Brewing, Spring Park, MN.

Clear, bright golden hue, slim white head. 

In the nose: bold and booming with citrus notes and stone fruit. Apricot and peach mingle pineapple and orange. Highly aromatic. 

In the mouth: hop assault on the palate, but too lean in the bitterness to truly make a mark as a West Coast. Medium bodied, mostly crisp and clean. but needs a bit more in the dry department. Not a truly successful attempt, I’m afraid. 

Citrusy // Piney // Resin

West Coast IPA

Ol’ George #25: How to Draw Ol’ George

 

Pizza Port Endless Shoreline India Pale Ale

 Pizza Port Endless Shoreline India Pale Ale.

7 % ABV, 65 IBU, Pizza Port Brewing, Carlsbad, CA. 

Clear, bright golden hue, large and lasting ivory head.

In the nose: bold citrus with a pinch of pine. 

In the mouth: fresh, fruity, and dry. Moderate bitterness, but plentiful hops. Medium bodied, long hop forward finish. Citrus tones meet with stone fruit. Easy drinking as she goes. 

I like this one fine, but it won’t replace Swami’s. 

Endless Shoreline IPA captures the essence of sun-soaked days with a refreshing burst of earthy tangelo and bright Meyer lemon. Brewed with Riwaka, Waimea, NZ Cascade, Crystal, & Columbus hops - the mid-palate reveals a tropical blend of sweet citrus, lush mango, and juicy papaya, transporting you to a beachside paradise. The finish is dry and crisp, leaving behind subtle hints of peppery lemongrass and a touch of slightly sticky resin. Just like the shoreline that stretches beyond the horizon, this IPA offers an experience that feels endless with every sip.

Bad Weather Sweater Weather Winter Warmer

 Bad Weather Sweater Weather Winter Warmer.

8.1% ABV, 35 IBU, Bad Weather Brewing, St. Paul, MN.

So much weather in that name. 

Winter is gone, but it ain’t spring yet. Birds are here, but they ain’t chirping. Grass is here, but it ain’t green. No flowers, no leaves on the trees, and we’re still wearing sweaters. Perfect time for the last can of this. 

Clear, dusky brown, voluptuous head, cream toned. 

In the nose: vanilla hits first, followed by cinnamon. Whither coconut? We’re getting hints.

In the mouth: again, vanilla is largest, the rest follow. Big malt, but maybe not robust enough. This is delicious, but I beg for more body. Not hating’, just saying. 

This comforting ale is made with toasted coconut, Saigon cinnamon, and vanilla bean. Also a dash of malted Kernza that aids in the cinnamon flavor of the beer. Kernza is a perennial grain that has been gaining popularity amongst brewers due to its sustainability.  Flavors and aromas of coconut, caramel, cinnamon, vanilla and toast. Medium bodied with a sweet/warming finish. Pours a clear reddish amber with a brown head. Enjoy by the fire or while watching the snow fall outside.

Dual Citizen WaveRacer West Coast IPA

 Dual Citizen WaveRacer West Coast IPA. 

7.1 % ABV, Dual Citizen Brewing, St. Paul, Minnesota. 

Clear, bright golden hue, large and lasting milky white head.

In the nose: citrusy, sliver of pine, tiny tropical tones. 

In the mouth: big blast of bitterness plays on the palate, tantalized the tongue. Nice and dry. Slightest sweetness, but bitter wins out. Light bodied, easy drinking, with never-ending hoppiness. 

I think I like this one. 

Citrus Zest • Floral • Berries

A sunny West Coast style American IPA.