In a unique blend of homage and philanthropy, Breakside Brewery in Portland, Oregon, has crafted a West Coast-style India Pale Ale (IPA) to honor the legacy of renowned beer writer Michael Jackson. This special brew not only pays tribute to Jackson's influential tasting notes but also serves as a fundraising initiative for the Michael Jackson Foundation for Brewing & Distilling. The foundation, established in 2020 by Brooklyn brewmaster Garrett Oliver, aims to promote technical education and career advancement for people of color in brewing and distilling industries. Dashawn Agbonze, a former recipient of the foundation’s scholarship, collaborated with Breakside to bring this project to life. The beer is now available at Breakside’s taprooms and select locations across Oregon.

The inspiration behind this IPA stems from Jackson's vivid descriptions of early craft IPAs, which captivated the imagination of Breakside's brewmaster Ben Edmunds. He sought to recreate an authentic taste that resonates with both historical context and contemporary preferences. "We aimed to capture the essence of those pioneering beers while aligning them with today's brewing techniques," explains Edmunds. By using Jackson's evocative language as a creative guide, the team endeavored to produce a flavor profile reminiscent of the late '90s and early 2000s. Descriptions like "long, oily hop flavors" and "cedary dry finish" became key elements in shaping the final product.

To achieve this distinctive character, the brewers focused on balancing traditional and modern approaches. They meticulously selected ingredients and brewing methods that would highlight the desired attributes. For instance, the use of specific hops contributed to an intense woody-minty-cedar bitterness in the finish, complemented by hints of citrus and tropical fruits. The resulting IPA boasts an original gravity of 1.051, a final gravity of 1.007, 49 IBUs, and an alcohol by volume content of 5.8%. These specifications ensure a robust yet balanced drinking experience.

This collaborative effort between Breakside Brewery and the Michael Jackson Foundation exemplifies the power of combining passion and purpose. Through this innovative approach, they have not only honored the memory of a significant figure in beer writing but also supported a noble cause. As enthusiasts savor each sip of this carefully crafted IPA, they contribute to advancing opportunities for underrepresented groups in the brewing world. This initiative underscores the enduring impact of Michael Jackson's contributions to the industry and paves the way for future generations of brewers and distillers.