Sierra Nevada Dual Torpedo Double Dry-hopped DIPA

 Sierra Nevada Dual Torpedo Double Dry-hopped DIPA.

8.2 % ABV, 45 IBU, Sierra Nevada Brewing, Chico, CA. 

Clear, bright golden hue, large and lace-leaving head. 

In the nose: big time pine and citrus, while slightly sweet and tropical. Tangerine and mango.Vastly aromatic. 

In the mouth: fresh and zesty, supremely hoppy, but moderately bitter. Alcohol rises up and it all falls into place. And I’m liking it more and more. 

Blasted with a double dose of hops, Dual Torpedo DIPA packs bold notes of pine and citrus.

MALTS: C-15, Two-row Pale, Wheat

HOPS: CTZ, Idaho 7, Simcoe

YEAST: Ale

Ol’ George # 87

 Ol’ George # 87

Notes on #87:

1. Nah. You either get it or you’re left scratching your skull. What’s really going on? I’ll never tell if I ever knew. 

Ol’ George #86

 Ol’ George #86:

1: 

I told you that these would get a little weird sometimes. They just enter my brain and I have to get them out. These concepts just might go further. Get ready. 

Steel Toe Pack the Patio Porter

 Steel Toe Pack the Patio Porter. 

Steel Toe Brewing, St. Louis Park, Minnesota. 

Dark brown, nearly black, slim cocoa collar of foam, thoroughly opaque.

In the nose: roasted malts, slight caramel notes. Right on for style.

In the mouth: roasty and smooth, medium bodied, malty, easy drinking. Rich and delicious. Guess what, you can drink dark beers in summer, even on the patio. 

Ol’ George #85: Mirror Image

 Ol’ George #85: Mirror Image.

Notes on #85.

1. A few weeks back, a friend sent me a pic of some art of a cartoon cat seen at a bar, with the question “your work?” Silly Sam, you’ve seen my stuff. But it gave me an idea and I used the character. I have no idea who the artist responsible is, but whoever they are, I apologize and promise to give a cut of all related future profits, royalties and residuals.

2. The anonymous kitty is drinking a can of Fat Cat lager, a brand I used to sell at The Blue Nile fifteen or so years ago. It had a label with a cartoon cat, also smoking a cigar. Are they still in business? Apparently so, if only in La Jolla, California. Or I may be completely wrong. (Although at Untappd, it seems that anyone checking in to Fat Cat since 2018 is doing so mistakenly. Lazy checker/inners.)

3. I have never shown anyone smoking in this strip because it is banned at Kelly’s Bar & Grill. How did Irma serve him if he’s illegally smoking? Maybe she didn’t? Perhaps he snuck the can in? And helped himself to a glass. Maybe he isn’t real? He just stepped over from the mirror universe. Maybe nobody is? Repeat to yourself, it’s just a comic strip, I should really just relax. 

Odell Mdrn IPA

 Odell Mdrn IPA.

5.8 % ABV, 30 IBU, Odell Brewing, Ft. Collins, Colorado. 

Oh great, one of those names where vowels are omitted and we’re supposed to provide our own. What the heck is a Modran IPA anyway? Or is it Miodryn? Whatever.

Clear, bright yellow, slim white head.

In the nose: big citrus, largely lemony.

In the mouth: some basic bitterness at first, big bite on the palate. Light bodied, but full-flavored. I thought this would be sweeter/juicier, but I’m happily mistaken. Less malty than a classic IPA, not quite as bitter as a West Coast, considerably easy drinking. Not too shabby there, for a Maudroon IPA, whatever that might be…

Surly Nineteen Birra Forte

 Surly Nineteen Birra Forte. Beer brewed with Cabernet Sauvignon grape juice aged on French oak. 

14 % ABV, Surly Brewing, Twin Cities, MN. 

It is now one year since I purchased this bottle. And it’s also less than one week away from the Surly 20th Anniversary event, and the release of that beer. Enough time has passed to finally drink it, which I remember enjoying at the time. 

Dark, burgundian, absolutely opaque, practically no head. 

In the nose: grape must hits first, a little oakiness comes through. 

In the mouth: ever-so grapey, and ever-so strong. Big, bold, fruity, dense. Yet, ridiculously drinkable, in the sense that wine grapes aged on oak in a beer clocking in at 14% can be drinkable. Yeah, I’ll drink it til it knocks me out. 

Every new sip brings me closer to a new understanding. Every subsequent swallow ushers in an expanded conception. It’s clean and largely tannin-free, grape juice and beer wrapped up in a dream. Now I’m contemplating the label, searching for meanings in scribbles.

Nineteen starts with a strong beer base and a significant amount of cabernet sauvignon juice added during fermentation. It then ages on Creative Oak’s Jupilles Fleur squares, which impart fresh floral and fruit notes along with its signature French oak flavor. The result is a beer/wine hybrid that lands in the red/rose neighborhood in both strength and character. 

Beer Club Brewing Doppelbock

 Beer Club Brewing Doppelbock. 

8% ABV, 21 IBU, Beer Club Brewing, Mora, MN. 

Murky, auburn hue, slim white head. 

In the nose: deeply malty, highly caramel-y, just short of sweet. 

In the mouth: slightly hoppy, major caramel malt. Sweet, succulent, full-bodied and delicious. Delectable. 

In other words, not too shabby there. 

Ol’ George #84: Like Sonny

 Ol’ George #84: Like Sonny

Notes on #84:

1. Somehow, I was always meant to love jazz. It’s hard to discover it growing up in the suburbs in the 70’s and 80’s, but I enjoyed anything jazz-like that I heard on the radio, like Sonny Rollins’ solo on the Rolling Stones’ record “Waiting on a Friend “ in 1981. I didn’t really get into Sonny until I went full-on into jazz in my early twenties, but the connection was swift and deep and permanent. 

When he passed away a few weeks ago, I knew I had to do a tribute and dusted off an old “hep cat” idea. I had to reference this genius, but which era? Late-life white Afro? Late ‘60’s Mohawk? Full beard? 

And I decided that my depiction of the Saxophone Colossus would be ink & brush with watercolor, while the rest of the strip would be the usual felt tip pen & colored pencil. These are skills that I am not a master of, but I did it and live with the mistakes. That’s supremely important. 

Sonny was a perfectionist in an improvised medium. How does that work? He was always finding something to say in the moment. It was never perfect…there is no perfect…but it was genius on call. Every sound from his horn was surprising. This is why I pity those who don’t enjoy jazz. So much popular music is formulaic and repetitive. Give in to spontaneous joy!

We listen to 50, 60, 70+ year old recordings and hear a man making sounds that you never heard before and neither did he. 

2. When I first conceived George, I had this litany of characteristics and it all leaned toward the curmudgeonly. A strip like this shows him at his happiest. He’s vocalizing along with Sonny’s great calypso number from Saxophone Colossus (1956), St. Thomas, and I have to say that if you hear that recording and neither move nor groove, well, I have to wonder about you. It should inspire a second line parade every time it is heard. 

3. In 2001, I took custody of a cat for the first time in my life and I called her Hepzibah, after the French skunk in Walt Kelly’s Pogo. Next up was a shy little girl black cat that I named Naima, after John Coltrane’s tune. A 4-year old ginger sweetie stepped into my life next and he was named Rollie Boy. Some years later, his doppelgänger walked into my world and was dubbed Sonny Boy and for years I had both Sonny and Rollie in tribute to my favorite tenor saxophonist. 

4. I have one more thing to say: listen to Sonny. 

MetroNome RetroNome West Coast IPA

 Metronome RetroNome West Coast IPA. 

6 % ABV, MetroNome Brewing, St. Paul, MN. 

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

In the nose: super citric, hyper piney. Vastly aromatic. Beautiful. Pitch perfect. 

In the mouth: blast of alpha acids upon the palate, but at the same time, perfectly balanced. Dry and bitter. Grips the very canyons of the senses. Mouth quenchingly refreshing….for the hophead. Read that as Obi Wan when he says “from a certain point of view”, in ROTJ.   I find this this refreshing and balanced as a hophead. 

Loads of citrus and plenty of pine, light bodied, but fully flavored. One of the best locally brewed West Coast IPAs I have had in a very long time. Can’t wait til I can buy a 4-pack. And thanks to Bill for the sample!

In this can is a duet of fermentation and music-a harmony for a greater good-with a portion of profits providing music education for underprivileged youth in the Twin Cities. So, drink up, hear what beer can do. 

Hammerheart Li’l Hesty Session India Pale Ale

 Hammerheart Li’l Hesty Session India Pale Ale.

5.5 % ABV, Hammerheart Brewing, Ely, Minnesota. 

Almost clear (chill haze), amber/orange coloring, slim, lasting head. 

In the nose: big citrus, tangerine and marmalade. Orange and grapefruit. Slightest smoke (some may contend.) 

In the mouth: bitterness begins, riding over a mound of malt. Citrusy delights abound. Altogether smooth, easy, highly likable. And do I detect a hint of Juniper? Perhaps, I think. 

Arbeiter Maibock Helles Bock Lager

 Arbeiter Maibock Helles Bock Lager.

6.6 % ABV, 33 IBU, Arbeiter Brewing, Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Clear, bright golden, large and lasting ivory head. 

In the nose: beautiful, floral hop notes with generous malty esters.

In the mouth: nice little blast of bitterness, but mostly sweet and malty. Medium bodied, easy drinking, complex flavors, utterly enjoyable. Flat out delicious. Maibock at its finest. If only the season lasted longer! 

Dangerous Man Cream Ale

 Dangerous Man Cream Ale.

5.2 % ABV, 20 IBU, Dangerous Man Brewing, Maple Lake, Minnesota. 

Clear, golden hued, slim white head. 

In the nose: malty, grainy, typical cream ale aroma. 

In the mouth: slightly sweet and super smooth. Malt driven with no hops beyond for balance. Crisp and clean, as they say. Good example of a style I’m glad exists but I don’t particularly care for. 

Sierra Nevada Rye Torpedo Rye IPA

 Sierra Nevada Rye Torpedo Rye IPA. 

6.2% ABV, 55 IBU, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Chico, California. (Or Mills River, North Carolina?)

Light chill haze, deep orange color, slim white head.

In the nose: citrus, blended with rye malt, like an orange/cookie combo.

In the mouth: peppery, slightly spicy, washed over with a wave of citrus. Nice and hoppy. Beautifully bitter. Medium bodied. Continues to treat the palate all the way through. 

Bold hop flavor and full-bodied malt combine in this IPA, inspired by our classic Torpedo but brewed with rye malt.

MALTS C-60, Munich, Rye, Two-row Pale

HOPS Chinook

YEAST Ale

Ol’ George #83:

 Ol’ George #83.

Notes:

1. When I paid tribute to “Star Wars” in #77 with the appearance of some cantina denizens and to “The Empire Strikes Back” in #80 with a Yoda (and Baby Yoda) cameo, I knew the next step to conclude our trilogy would be to bring in some “Return of the Jedi” characters for #83. Were there Jawas in “Jedi”, lurking around Jabba’s palace? Maybe. Do I have to go watch that scene for the 5000th time to find out for sure? Go ahead, twist my arm!

2. It kind of looks like Ewok #2 is having a Monster energy drink, doesn’t it? That wasn’t my intention. I just wanted to make an alien-looking can design and that’s what I came up with…now I can’t unsee it!

3. Why is George urging Irma to call Animal Control on this intergalactic menagerie? Isn’t he an animal? Well, no, anthropomorphic cats exist in the classification between man and animal, both at once, while never neither. That doesn’t make sense, right? Good. 

Back Channel Minne Matsui Japanese Rice Lager

 Back Channel Minne Matsui Japanese Rice Lager.

5% ABV, Back Channel Brewing, Spring Park, Minnesota. 

A Japanese rice lager is not the type of beer that I would purchase with my own money. But, I didn’t buy this when my own money. Let’s use this opportunity to discover why, exactly, this style is not for me. 

Clear, pale yellow, no head. 

In the nose: grainy, tepid. 

In the mouth: more grain, hardly any hops, no finish, little body. Refreshing? Sure. But it contains few of the things I turn to beer for.

I will accept a free can of Japanese rice lager if offered one, but I won’t take notes on another. Not gonna lie, as  the kids say, it ain’t for me. 

Pryes Bock Maibock

 PryesBock Maibock. 

6.3 % ABV, 29 IBU, Pryes Brewing, Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Clear, brilliant golden, slim white head.

In the nose: malty sweet, grainy, utterly lovely. 

In the mouth: smooth and supple, with the merest amount of grit. Clean, nearly crisp, and bursting with malty goodness. Long, rewarding finish. Beautiful beer. 

I enjoyed this from a sample can, while watching it fly off the shelves. Next year, I’ll buy a few more to enjoy all the longer. 

Our take on a Maibock – a traditional German, welcome-to-spring malty beer – PryesBock is a sign of the changing seasons and a reminder of the warmth to come. This balanced beer is crisp like a buttered biscuit. Bring on the spring awakening with PryesBock! 

Fair State Rad Bod

 Fair State Rad Bod Lemon Tea Golden Ale. 

4.5 % ABV, Ale with lemon and tea flavors. Fair State Brewing, St. Paul, MN. 

It says “golden ale” on the front, kölsch on the back, and its name is a pun on “radler.” So, which is it? It is also, I believe, the first new release from the new Fair State. 

Clouded and yellow, slim white head. 

In the nose: big time lemon and not much else. 

In the mouth: lemon. Tea. Got it. And some manner of light ale below. Smooth and refreshing. Patio pounder, for sure. It may too early for this one. I’ll check back in July. 

Fine enough, but I’ve never really been into lemon. 

This crisp and crushable kölsch ale is infused with lemonade and black tea – just like a classic cocktail by that one arnie guy. This golden crusher is made for the first swing to the 19th hole, whether you’re on the green or in the rough.

Finnegans Irish Cream Ale

 Finnegans Irish Cream Ale.

5.5 % ABV, brewed and packaged by Fulton Brewing, Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Clear, golden hued, slim layer of ivory froth.

In the nose: malty, vanilla, few hops. “Creamy”?

In the mouth: smooth and slightly delicious. Balanced, easy going, quite consumable. And ever-so creamy. Just enough sweetness. Just enough bitter. 

Go out and get some…if you’re into that kind of thing. 

Falling Knife Prime Acre West Coast IPA

 Falling Knife Prime Acre West Coast IPA. 

7.3 % ABV, Falling Knife Brewing, Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Clear, golden hued, slim white head. 

In the nose: citrus and pine a’poppin’. 

In the mouth: dry, bitter, so far, so good. Citrus flavors shine on the palate, bright and beautiful. Refreshingly quenching. Lays long into the finish. Medium bodied. Definitely delightful. 

BeerClub Brewing Anvil Accident IPA

 BeerClub Brewing Anvil Accident IPA. 7% ABV. 

BeerClub Brewing, Mora, Minnesota. 

A few weeks back, Jason and I took a little trip, saw some breweries, had some beers. There were varying levels of quality and  shifting strata of charm at each location, all new to me, but I was especially taken with a little known place in a tiny town about an hour and a half north of my Minneapolis home. All I knew of it was what Jason told me: it was called BeerClub, was founded by homebrewing buddies gone pro, and is up in Mora, right up there near Hinckley, don’t you know. 

I liked it immediately on entering, as we were greeted for the first time that day by anything other than modern country music. Better yet, it was Al Green, and that’s always alright by me. There was quirky original art on the walls, various brewery signs about, and a comfortable, eclectic feeling around. I was enjoying my first pint, an IPA, when I heard a voice from behind saying, “is that Al McCarty?” Well, of course I am, but who’s he?

It was my Ol’ buddy Billy, who I’d known from my time at a certain local brewery, seemingly forever ago. He’s brewing up the beers here, a fact someone might have hipped me to, but I’d all but forgotten. We played a bit of catch up, and I continued to soak the place up, finding something to enjoy in every new beer I tried. 

I took home four cans and a bomber, and here’s where I begin to tell you about them, starting with the first brew I sampled there, the IPA. 

Largely clear, with a thick chill haze, golden orange coloring, large and long lasting ivory head. 

In the nose: showing significant citrus. Pine on the side. Lovely. 

In the mouth: big bitterness, abundant hop flavors. Clearly in the realm of a citrusy American IPA and not shy about it. Bumps and bounces on the palate like it oughta. Long, hoppy finish. Medium bodied and jumping with good Ol’ fashioned flavor. Highly satisfying IPA here, I could easily find this a favorite, were it within reach. 

Ol’ George #82: The Scream

 Ol’ George #82: The Scream

No notes this time. 

Ol’ George #81: Here, Kitty, Kitty

 Ol’ George #81: Here, Kitty, Kitty

Notes on 81: 

1. I really haven’t shown George being a cat all that much. It’s bound to happen. Just don’t expect him to follow stereotypes, that’ll push his buttons. 

2. After I created this nameless character who antagonizes George, I wondered how often that I had drawn a human male without facial hair. So, I made a list. Zippy the Pinhead (#27), who has stubble. Norm from Cheers (#31), but who wants a bearded accountant? Superman (#38), who shaved with heat vision. Zaphod Beeblebrox (#42). Donald Trump (#3 & 51). Batman &Robin (#54). And the other thing they have in common is, I didn’t create them. Then I thought of the weird hallucination in #71 and remembered that I put hairs on his chinny chin chin. I guess I just feel men need facial hair. Sounds like a challenge. Who shall be my first bare faced male character? 

Ol’ George #80: Drink On, He Gets

 Ol’ George #80

Notes on #80:

1. I wanted to do something for Star Wars Day, May the Fourth Be With You, which was yesterday. Also, a few weeks ago, #77 paid homage to the year A New Hope was released. What came out in ‘80? Empire Strikes Back, which is where Yoda comes from. The thing wrote itself. This means that you may see a Return of the Jedi guest appearance in a few weeks. 

2. This has nothing to do with the strip. I took this photo after I placed an early Bad Kitty sticker next to a Yoda/beer sticker on top of a feminine hygiene disposal unit in a restroom at Arbeiter Brewing, last spring. Shortly thereafter, I used the same stall, as I often do, and apparently someone liked the Yoda sticker so much that they peeled it off. I put a Devil Made Me Drink It (another of mine) in the open space. I think that they are both still there. 

Look at that “painting “, though. Is that a can of beer next to Yoda? No, it looks all the world like a Bandwagon THC seltzer from Utepils. Look behind Yoda’s right side, those appear to be more Utepils cans. On the left, I can’t tell. None of it makes much sense. I suspect that this is A.I. 

So, don’t tear off stickers when you can just ask Chat GPT to make your image for you. And head over to OddMart and buy some of my stickers made with my real human hands! 

Thomas Hardy’s Golden Edition 50th Anniversary

 Thomas Hardy’s Golden Edition 50th Anniversary 

13% ABV,  Meantime Brewing, London, England. 

Hey, that was my 50th anniversary, too! This bottle was given to me by my boss who knew I would appreciate it more than him about…5 years ago, I think. And I’ve been sitting on it, hoping for the best. I mean, it’s Thomas Hardy’s, am I right?

Clear, burgundy hue, no head at all, unfortunately.

In the nose: plum. Raisin. Dark fruit, leather, smoke, touch of vanilla. Whole lot going on. 

In the mouth: getting a little hot and peppery, alcohol rising, slightly medicinal, while remaining delicious. Low carbonation, but after eight years, big whoop. Not a problem. A most delicious barley-wine ale that keeps getting better. Chocolate rolls in, deep maltiness, rich deliciousness….I’ve run out of words…so very amazing. 

Whatever happened to Thomas Hardy’s? Is it still being made? I have no idea. The glass I am drinking from was given to me by Brad the Beer Guy back when I ordered cases of Thomas Hardy’s for the Blue Nile back in the good Ol’ days. Imagine going into an Ethiopian restaurant and finding this (well, not this), on the bottle list. I can’t imagine it, and I did it! 

I haven’t used this glass since the last time I had a Thomas Hardy’s, which was a long, long time ago, 

On the nose, straight away the bouquet has impact, intensity and complexity with notes of both candied and alcohol-soaked fruit, dried figs, fresh tobacco and chocolate, while a caramel sensation is perceived but remains in the background.

In the mouth, the initial sensation is of incredible density and softness, a silky warmth accompanying memories of bitter orange marmalade, dried fruit and chestnut honey. The finale provides a refreshing, slightly sharp hint that adds harmony and balance. The vintage 2018 Golden Edition celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Thomas Hardy’s Ale, first produced in 1968.

My god, this is good! I am treating myself tonight. 

Headflyer Wicked Fastball Minnesota Pale Ale

 

Headflyer Wicked Fastball Minnesota Pale Ale. Mpls Made Gameday Crusher. 

5.4 % ABV, 34 IBU, Headflyer Brewing, Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Clear, light amber color, slim white head. 

In the nose: citrus and berries. (Surprise: Mosaic hops!)

In the mouth: burst of bitterness up front, laying long on the palate. Hop character comes shining through. Exceptionally smooth, light bodied, and easy drinking. Quite delicious.

Why did it take me so long to get into this one? Just not into baseball that much. 

Wicked Fastball is a refreshing Pale Ale brewed for the love of the game and bold Mosaic hops. This gameday crusher is the perfect balance, so catch a Fastball. And we'll see you tomorrow night.

Ol’ George #79: The Ayes Haven’t It

 Ol’ George #79

Notes on #79: 

1. It’s quite possible Irma never even noticed that George and Chester went vertical (which also happened in #63 and #75). She liked  #78 because Chester revealed George’s many flaws, which she sees through every day. 

2. I find it quite adorable that my characters think they have any agency in their lives. But I’m most surprised by George, who revealed to Balonious way back in the legendary episode 35 (7/1/25), that the puppet master is me. It’s all in service of the gag. 

3. It wasn’t enough to give us Bugs Bunny in the ‘30’s. Fred “Tex” Avery also brought into the world Droopy Dog for MGM in 1943 (original name: Happy Hound.) You have to read Droopy’s line in his voice. If you can’t, find a friend who can. If that doesn’t work, get better friends. 

4. This is the most characters I’ve used in a single strip, 11, one one-off guest star and ten recurring regular cast members. Well, it’s only the second time for Wendell and Charlie, but they’re in the club now! 

5. Will Ol’ George be all vertical, no horizontal from now on? The vote was to be unanimous and Droopy spoiled it. Sorry if I forgot that part. It will shift on the whims of I, the Puppet Master, boo-hoo-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!!!

Fair State Legalize Big Doinks

 Fair State Legalize Big Doinks Special Release West Coast Style IPA.

6.5 % ABV, Fair State Brewing, St. Paul, MN. 

Clear, bright golden hue, ivory head. 

In the nose: big citrus and big phat dankitude. Smells like Otto’s jacket.

In the mouth: sweet lemon and orange, touch of tart, a bucketful of bitterness. Lean, clean, and lemony. I need the dry in a WC IPA, I need the brittle and the bitter. This lacks that. 

This is the description from the original release, years ago: 

In honor of the 20th day of the 4th month of the year, we present to you Legalize Big Doinks, an Extra Extra dank IPA. We've added to the doinkyness of Doinks by procuring some of the finest distilled terpene blends available on the market. What are terpenes? They are highly aromatic compounds in plants. Useful for many things (attracting pollinatos, etc.) they're plentiful in both hops and cannabis, Terpenes are distilled from various fruits and herbs, then carefully blended back into aromatic combinations that are, shall we say highly reminiscent of the less-legal versions.Hops: Columbus Cryo, Malts: Pilsner, Carafoam, Process Notes: Terpenes added before packaging, Visual: Crispy clear

There are new words on the new can, but I will not type them out. Imagine profuse drug references.

Ursa Minor Dubbeldore’s Dilemma

 Ursa Minor Dubbeldore’s Dilemma.

7.2 % ABV, 15 IBU, Ursa Minor Brewing, Duluth, Minnesota. 

Clear, burgundy-toned, slim head.

In the nose: caramel tones hit first, toffee next, rich and malty. Deeelightful. 

In the mouth: warm, sweet, rich, full and lovely. Wonderful. Smooth and satisfying. Plums, fig, dark fruits aplenty. Bit o’ raisin. Lots of flavor. A “malt bomb” if you will. Toffee-tacular. 

I love a good dubbel ale and this is surely one. 

Lift Bridge Good Company West Coast IPA

 

Lift Bridge Good Company West Coast IPA .

7.2% ABV, Lift Bridge Brewing, Stillwater, Minnesota. 

Clear, bright golden hue, large ivory head. 

In the nose: piney & citric, just the way we want ‘em. 

In the mouth: a blast of hops on the palate, lasting through a long finish. Just bitter and dry enough, refreshing and delicious. Medium bodied. We have a blend of orange and lemon on top, with grapefruit in the mix, hints of mango at the side. 

Downright enjoyable. I’ll be back for more. 

Good Company is a modern West Coast style IPA. Enjoy it with your flock. 

I’m still trying to figure out what they mean when they say “modern West Coast”. It’s clear and dry-ish with a little sweetness? 

Ol’ George #78

  Ol’ George #78

Notes on #78: 

1. This one feels like a Peanuts strip, and I was originally going to draw the two of them philosophizing on a bridge, a la Charlie Brown and Linus. George would be asking why people don’t like him, just like CB, but that’s not really George. He’s not one to find flaws in his character or seek out self-improvement. 

2. Even though George thinks that webcomics have ratings, his despair over the strip’s lack of popularity leads him to find a solution in others, not himself. 

3. Sometimes, the characters swap positions. This is because in panel one we are observing from behind the bar, though Irma remains hidden. In panel two, the viewpoint has switched, as if we are viewing from outside the bar. Panel three, back to Irma’s eyes! Panel four, too, but the friends have moved, just so Chester can Plop! to the left, even though the right would make more sense, and now I have to admit that I am mostly making this up as I go. 

Arbeiter Rye It Red Rye IPA

 Arbeiter Rye It Red Rye IPA.  

5.9% ABV, Arbeiter Brewing, Minneapolis, Minnesota.Hops: Amarillo, Cascade, Centennial, El Dorado, Mandarina Bavaria. (All the best ones.)

Dark crimson coloring, clear, lasting layer of creamy froth atop. 

In the nose: smooth malty notes hide bitterness below. Citrus and pine butt up against slight sweetness. 

In the mouth: big, bouncy bitterness, outsized hoppiness blast the palate. Despite that, fairly easy-going and drinkable. Medium bodied, long malty finish. Peppery, just a bit fruity, flush with flavor. 

I’m digging this one. 

Ol’ George #77: Scum & Villainy

 Ol’ George #77: Scum & Villainy.

Notes on 77: 

1. So, I thought, what should I do for #77? What happened in’77? Star Wars did. When I saw it in theaters at the age of nine, that cantina scene blew my  mind. So many aliens. All those cool intergalactic creatures! I had to wait for the trading cards to get to the orange series before I could see them again! Or that viewfinder cartridge that showed a portion. No other movie had that before. It’s why I became a devoted Star Wars fan.

So, the character we now call Ponda Baba was once Walrus Man, when he got an action figure in ‘79. His buddy Dr. Evazan didn’t get one until much later, when I was done with toys, but I had WM, who looked nothing like the film version, plus Greedo, Hammerhead, Snaggletooth. I wish I had done a little better job drawing WM, (his head should be larger) but it’s such a short amount of screen time. Obi Wan made quick work of those two. (Or did he…sigh…in later edits, we can hear them moaning and groaning, still alive, at scene’s end.) 

2. I don’t believe I’ve ever shown George using “growlix”, as Mort Walker dubbed them, before this in a strip. (In a sketch for a sticker, yes. In an actual sticker, kind of. In an upcoming sticker, also kind of.) He prefers to let his words do the work. But in a situation like this, it’s best to leave it to your imagination. I want to say this is a family strip, but George has used profanity before, under extenuating circumstances. (So have I, and Irma, Geni, Chester, and Cuddles the Cockroach.) I like that he used a Jedi mind trick of his own, without resorting to violence. 

3. Is George in the cantina in the Star Wars universe, or are those characters at Kelly’s in George’s universe? In the notes for #3, I suggested that George visits another Kelly’s on Tatooine, just to have Wuher, the bartender, show Trump and Vance the door. And then they won the election. And a hundred million voices cried out in anguish. Sigh…I’ve pretty much disowned that one. 

4. While we’re on the subject, there’s something in that scene I just don’t get. Wuher sees Luke and the droids and shouts at them from across the room to get out of building. Once they’re outside, Luke bellies up to the bar and gains the bartender’s attention by tugging on his shirt….and is promptly, if gruffly, served. In what galaxy does a bartender allow a patron to reach across the bar and grab them? Had George Lucas had so little experience in bars that he found this acceptable? 

Pipeworks Close Encounters Black IPA

 Pipeworks Close Encounter Black IPA,

6.8 % ABV, Pipeworks Brewing, Chicago, Illinois. 

Thoroughly dark, utterly opaque, large, creamy tan head. 

In the nose: bold, bright, grassy, hoppy. Mucho malty. 

In the mouth: who put pine cones in my cocoa? Fairly bitter, mostly malty, semi-sweet. Grassy/citrusy to match the malt. Medium bodied/finish.  Hits the spot for lovers of the Black IPA. (Sorry, “Cascadian Dark Ale”, not sorry.) 

Close encounter is a bold venture into depths unknown.  The best of both worlds co-exist between a rich roasted malt character and an aggressive hop presence that will probe your taste buds like nothing you have experienced before. Don't fear the unknown, embrace it!  You never know who or what you will encounter...

Surly Mango Axe Man IPA

 Surly Mango Axe Man IPA.

7.2 % ABV, 65 IBU, Surly Brewing, Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Bright orange, mostly clear, lasting ivory head. 

In the nose: bold and vibrant, bright and beautiful. Fresh fruit galore!

In the mouth: Juicy and fruity from the start, with bitterness creeping in. Axe Man is down here, with mango hanging over. Me, I’d like a little Ed’s of the mango and more of the IPA. It’s not too sweet, just getting in the way. 

I think this doesn’t have enough mango, and it would still be too much for me. This bitterness is there, I’d just prefer it without the fruit. 

The already-intense tropical fruit, berry, and citrus profile of Axe Man gets amplified with a mango addition. 

Dogfish Head Raison D’extra Brown Ale

 

Dogfish Head Raison D’extra Brown Ale. Brewed with beet sugar & raisins. 

8 % ABV, 25 IBU, Dogfish Head, Milton, DE. 

I first reviewed this from a bottle many years ago, but I am not digging those notes up, no way. And now, it has returned in cans and a variety pack. Well, I should say it had….I had the first two with no notes in October and saved this one for six months. I swear that one of these I really will stop procrastinating, honest. 

Deep crimson hued, not quite brown, clearish, slim, creamy tanned head. 

In the nose: got the maltiness of a Belgian dubbel ale, is the brown ale to which they refer? It’s got that sweetness and more. Beets haven’t grabbed me yet. 

In the mouth: here’s the vegetables! Bright, shiny & delicious. Have raisins shown up yet? They’re being subtle, which is appreciated. High ABV is rising up in prominence. Altogether, well-formed, highly ingenious, richly satisfying. A nice, sweet little nightcap. 

A deep, mahogany ale brewed with beet sugar, green raisins, and Belgian-style yeast. As complex as a fine, red wine. Voted \American Beer of the Year\" in January 2000 by Malt Advocate Magazine."

Ol’ George #76: The Absinthe Drinker (Fine Art Funnies #1)

 Ol’ George #76: The Absinthe Drinker (Fine Art Funnies #1)

Notes on #76:

1. I’ve been sitting on these ideas for far too long, and it was time to get going on them. What if characters from fine art paintings met George? What would happen then, huh? Well, we’ll see, won’t we? At last count, I had about five of these, and I will sprinkle them in among the others.

2. This one is now the most multi-media strip of all. Pencil, ink (pen), colored pencil, crayon, oil pastel, marker. This one will force me to go out and get better versions of these materials. 

3. George previously said he’s not into inter-species stuff, but don’t misconstrue him. He’s not into her sexually or romantically. They’re just hanging out…as friends….for now. Seeing where it’s going…you can say someone is cute without being into them….

Wandering Leaf Gothic Castle Dry Irish Stout

 Wandering Leaf Gothic Castle Dry Irish Stout.

4.6 % ABV, Wandering Leaf Brewing, St. Paul, Minnesota.

Solid blackness, absolute opacity, slim brown head. 

In the nose: roasty, malty, dry, with hints of cocoa.

In the mouth: right on the money. A personification of Dry Irish Stout. Just right with the roasty/toasty malt, bits of dark fruit,  the chocolate and coffee and the dry mouthfeel. Full bodied, long finish. Top notch. 

Hammerheart Flaming Longship Scotch Ale

 

Hammerheart Flaming Longship Scotch Ale. 8% ABV, Hammerheart Brewing, Ely, Minnesota.

It’s 2026 and I’m writing about this for the first time. I look on Untappd and I checked into it 4 times between 2016 and 2019 at Acadia Cafe, all from kegs that I ordered. I know it’s been in cans since. Why is this the first time I bought a 4-pack? Did I …you know, I’ll never know, so let’s drink it and move on… 

Dark brown color, nearly black, almost opaque, slim creamy tan head. 

In the nose: sweet, creamy malt, whiff of smoke, getting stronger.

In the mouth: super smooth and edging into delicious. More mild smoke riding over caramel malt, with warm alcohol depth giving us a good night’s rest. Sweet and lovely. I need to go back for more. I absolutely adore this beer. 

Originally inspired by the Scottish fire festival Up Helly Aa, Flaming Longship is a deeply malty Scotch ale with a mild hint of three blended smoked malts which are added for depth.

Big Axe Salivator Doppelbock

 Big Axe Salivator Doppelbock. 7.9 %, 24 IBU, Big Axe Brewing, Nisswa, Minnesota. 

Clear, caramel-toned, nice slice of tan head atop.

In the nose: sweet and malty. Toffee and caramel. Delightful.

In the mouth: rich and delicious. Warm, full-bodied, more flavors of toffee, caramel, nougat. Liquid candy bar. I am enjoying this treat and will probably go back for more. Yu-um. 

Traditional German style winter lager with rich flavor.  This brew is defined by intense malt & bread notes, along with mild hints of caramel, chocolate and a slightly sweet finish.

Ol’ George #75: Dreamin’

 

Ol’ George #75:

Notes on #75:

1. I consider every 25 strips as an anniversary. For #25, I offered a tutorial on how to draw George. For the fiftieth, we brought Krazy & Ignatz into the strip. And this one is unusual in several ways. 

2. In began when a friend requested another sticker drop out of me. ( I’ve done seven designs altogether in the past 14 months. Currently, you can get them by seeing me in person or purchasing them at OddMart, 2520 Lyndale Avenue, Minneapolis.) I asked them for a suggestion and they gave me “a Bad Kitty beer bottle.” I liked the idea, but changed it to a label with George’s face on it. After sketching it, I decided it should be #75, with panels on the sides, colored with pencils, as usual, but the bottle, would be watercolor. And it would be narrated in rhyme, naturally. 

3. I’m going to give this design another go before I turn it into a sticker. It won’t be too different from this, except that it’ll be better. 

4. Have I done one with four smiling Georges? That’s weird. 

Three Floyds Lord Rear Admiral Extra Special Bitter Ale

 Three Floyds Lord Rear Admiral Extra Special Bitter Ale. 6.5 % ABV, 55 IBU, Three Floyds Brewing, Munster, IN. 

Clear and copper colored, slim, off-white head.

In the nose: slightly sweet, malty nose, considerably clean. 

In the mouth: crisp and clean, mildly malty. Expertly drinkable, nicely hopped, well balanced. Goes good with darts and bangers & mash. ‘It’s a fine ESB, but I did not detect any “apricot hoppiness.” 

Three Floyds’ version of an ESB, this deep amber ale has a complex malt sweetness and pronounced apricot hoppiness. Named after Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson.

Modist Gravity Lens Oak-aged Pale Lager

 

Modist Gravity Lens Oak-aged Pale Lager.

4.8 % ABV, Modist Brewing, Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Clear, golden hued, large ivory head. 

In the nose: malty, clean, classic. Am I getting some oak? Oh, yeah. 

In the mouth: more oak, more malty, but moreover crisp, light, delightful. Essentially lager-y. Not too this, not too that. Clean as a bean. Good oak-aged pale lager and you can drink it. 

Pale lager w/ pilsner malt, pale malt, rye malt, hopped w/ Amira, Pacific Jade & Cryo Idaho 7, aged in American oak foders    

Einstök Wee Heavy

 

Einstök Wee Heavy. Scottish Ale brewed with Angelica root and smoked barley. 

8% ABV, Einstök Beer Company, Stratford, CT. 

Hmmm…no longer from Iceland, eh? Interesting.,.

Dark burgundy hue, rich tan head, mostly opaque.

In the nose: thoroughly malty, a touch of sweetness, a little spice, whiff of licorice. Cola? This one’s got me going. 

In the mouth: soft, rounded, smooth & delicious. Medium bodied. Sweetness and spice mix with the malt, blend with the high ABV and turn out a treat. 

I love a good Wee Heavy and this is surely one. 

Viking history in Scotland goes back a thousand years. Even our brew master studied in Edinburgh, where he carefully surveyed the local brew. Our Scotch Ale is the first of its kind to use Icelandic-grown, birch-smoked barley in collaboration with Eimverk distillery in Garðabær. We then add native Icelandic Angelica, a fabled herb used by Vikings past. Our Wee Heavy is rich and hearty, with a touch of smokiness, and remains incredibly balanced. Your tastebuds have no choice but to be conquered.