B.A. Johnston’s Finest Malt Liquor

If there were any justice in the world, B.A. Johnston would be a major star. But there isn’t. As a result, B.A. is a modest draw—a man tirelessly touring across Canada in his minivan, sharing his unique blend of homespun tunes with a populace thirsty for truth. And when you’re thirsty for truth, the folks at Sawdust City Brewing Company know that you’re also frequently thirsty for strong beer: enter B.A. Johnston’s Finest Malt Liquor. Brewed by Sawdust City in Gravenhurst, Ontario, this 8% alcohol grog comes in 473mL cans emblazoned with an illustration of the man himself, in all of his glory.

Cloudy and sunny gold, the Finest Malt Liquor pours with a thin cap of white head. It has a boozy nose, with some syrupy grain notes. The flavour is assertively potent; sweet and strong, with notes of corn. The finish is strong, but manages to close out smoothly.

Like B.A. himself, his Finest Malt Liquor won’t be for everyone. Truthfully, it wasn’t really for me. As an alcohol delivery system, it is efficient and effective. As a flavourful craft beer, it is a bit rough, too sweet, and short on bitterness. This beer is representative of the pride of Hamilton: it’s strong, abrasive, and a bit gross, but it has some soul and some sass.

Rating: 6.0 out of 10.