Honkers Ale Alternative

Let's not go confusing newbies with seasonal creep.

I have 5 Oktos left in my stash... maybe more after next week if my local is still stocked. Okto season lingers.

 

This one?
https://www.beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/583/1629/

I'll have to keep my eyes open for it.

 

Odell 90 Schilling might also be a good choice for the OP.

Can't recall if it's available in WI.

 

What do you think about the GI IPA?

 

[QUOTE=" I would find a great beer (for me -- a "desert island" pick) that I would drink regularly. But after a period of time it would disappear. [/QUOTE]
Nowadays, there are so many one-offs that the period of time for disappearance for something you really like is in weeks. It's been a real change in the brewing world for me.

 

Purists will surely object to this, but to me Altbier is like the German version of an English bitter. Long Trail Ale is probably the most widely distributed Altbier in the US and might be worth a try if the OP can find it.

 

I'm a purist and I can definitely see the comparison -- with a little less sweetness and esters.

And also as long as the brewery doesn't lean too far to a Brown Ale, as many do.

 

How do you feel about Cicso Whale's Tale? A couple years ago I helped a guy out in a similar situation to the op, and that's what he liked best.

My local just started pushing the Oktoberfests on discount so I picked up a few sixers last weekend. Hofbrau, H-P and Weihenstephaner are still tasting good to me, and my wallet appreciates it.

 

General question, or asking the OP?

To me, the Goose IPA has a completely different malt & hop character than the Honkers. Very different beers.

Man, makes me long for that Goose mixed pack with the IPA, Honkers, and 312. A nice choice of different beers to choose from.

 

Yep, that's the one. Unfortunately, Schlafly beers are not available where I am in Florida. They should be available in your area.

 

Sometimes yes, sometimes no.

 

I haven't had whale's tale in a minute. I should revisit it. Seeing that it's 5.6% abv makes me a little skeptical, as my preference is for English pale ales/bitters to be sub 5% abv. But perhaps I'll pick up a single if I can find a fresh one. Thanks.

 

In pounders at Fenway!

 

I’d suggest Sam Adams Boston Ale, but my recollection is it is also a taproom exclusive now, too. For widely available beer, I’d say Lagunitas’ Newcastle brown ale is surprisingly close, but does have a bit of roast in there.

If you’re in Ohio, Homestead’s Tenpenny amber is pretty spot on to Honker’s, maybe a little fuller flavored. Fuller’s ESB is different, but outstanding in the style. It was a really unique and special beer. I second the thought that seasonals and one-off ESBs are probably going to be your best bet.

 

Maybe try Fat Tire as well. It's darker than what you're looking for, I think, but will also be in the ballpark if you're flexible.

 

@RCW, if you are still around, it's possible GI will be packaging Honker's Ale again. Well, the following label has been submitted to the TTB anyway so we'll see if it comes to fruition. No idea on distribution but as you are in WI, it's possible even a Chicagoland area only release could still work for you. Keep your eyes peeled!

 

Whaaaat?!

Interesting new labels too, harkening back to the old goose style and even the fonts.

1988... and I was there. Seems like so long ago.

 

Alaskan Amber enters the conversation.

 

I agree.