January 1883, the Gloucester fishing schooner Grace L. Fears was fishing for halibut deep in the North Atlantic. A winter storm came up suddenly, stranding Howard Blackburn and another fisherman in their dory. Blackburn knew that his hands would freeze, so he held them in curved position that would allow him to slip his frozen hands back over the oars. Five days later, without food, water or sleep, Blackburn had rowed back to shore. His dorymate died en route. Blackburn was taken in by a family living on the coast of Newfoundland. They tended to his injuries as best they could. Despite their efforts, Blackburn lost all of his fingers. A year later, he sailed himself back to Gloucester, returning a hero, someone who had fought the sea for the highest stakes and won. He was unable to continue working as a fisherman because of his injuries, so Howard opened a cigar store and applied for a liquor license. The saloon became popular with townspeople and seafarers alike. Blackburn was a bona fide hero, a larger than life character who had great stories to tell. Inspired by Blackburn, we introduce Frosty Knuckle Ale, a tribute to men of the sea, barkeeps, and local characters who always have a great story to tell. Drink up and enjoy!
Frosty Knuckle Ale is a light to medium bodied, full flavored, German Ale made from German Yeast and Hops. Similar to a light Marzen, Frosty Knuckle Ale is a smooth beer with a dry finish that has you coming back for more. 5% ABV