Beer and Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson was loved worldwide for his brilliance. Through his craft he made many lives better. The top in his industry, Michael Jackson was a star that faded too fast.

Not a pop star, Michael Jackson, The Beer Hunter, died August 30, 2007 at the age of 65. Arguably the best beer writer ever, Michael Jackson had a cult following almost as loyal as the King of Pop's Superfans.

I was turned on to his writings from a musty, tattered ten year-old copy of his 1977 book The World Guide to Beer, coming across it by accident at a used bookseller on N. Clark Street in Chicago. I had been investigating Sufism at the time and someone had placed Michael Jackson's book horizontally on top of the tomes standing on one of the higher shelves in the 'Spirituality' section. At 6'3", I could see this book had gathered some dust, but read the title, perused a passage, and was hooked; it was a religious experience. Later, as a blossoming homebrewer, Michael Jackson's Beer Companion became a constant companion and reference.

Belgian beers - were of particular interest to Michael Jackson, as was whiskey. In the Chicago area, Two Brother's Brewery issues a limited seasonal quantity of Monarch White, a Belgian-style wheat beer. Goose Island'sMatilda is a refreshing Belgian-style Pale Ale, crisp and clean. When in Madison (WI), seek the Ale Asylum and try any of the three Belgian sisters: Happy Ending (abbey), Diablo (double), or Trident Tripel (triple). As goes beer with cheese, pair Belgian pale ales with brie or camembert or a smoked provolone with a Belgian wit.

Not fortunate enough to win the lottery of 17,500 tickets for pop star Michael Jackson's funeral, I think I'll stay home, turn on the TV, and imbibe a few Belgian ales in commemoration.

Michael Jackson, 'The Beer Hunter' (1942-2007) - RIP

Michael Jackson, 'The King of Pop' (1958-2009) - RIP