Kelly’s Contraption

Named in honour of the motorcar developed by John B. Kelly in Blythe, Ontario in 1883–apparently pre-dating Henry Ford’s effort by four years–the beer, styled Kelly’s Contraption, is billed as “New World Hefeweizen” and comes from Cowbell Brewing Co. aka Blyth Brewing & Distilling. Like Kelly’s antediluvian auto, the 5% alcohol, 15 IBU ale comes from Blyth, ON.

Kelly’s has a cloudy golden hue, under a thick, off-white head. There is a punchy nose, with yeasty notes, some slight clove spiciness, and a dose of banana esters. Like a classic hefe, this new world edition has yeasty profile, a flavour with banana and orange notes, and a dose of spices. The beer is thin-bodied, but refreshing. 

Really, Kelly’s Contraption is a summertime brew, but it came my way in November, via my ol’ pal LW. Despite the unseasonal quaffing, I found the beer to be a pretty convincing Ontarian imitation of the classic Teutonic style. A bit thin, sure, but clearly well-made. Like the other Cowbell offerings that I’ve enjoyed, K’sC was a quality brew that, while not exceptional, was very good.

Rating: 8.0 out of 10.