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This hoppy, dark red ale gets its name from the controversial, left-leaning, counter-culture rag published in Lawrence from 1969-1973. Birthed from the union of two other underground papers (The Screw: a twisted device for holding things together and Reconstruction), The Vortex spouted off on subjects ranging from the wars in Vietnam and Laos, to local political unrest, yippie and hippie culture, and of course… sex, drugs, and rock and roll. The writing was usually a matter-of-fact, bold narrative and somewhat clumsy in a “hip” sort of way. You can check the Vortex out for yourself at the Kansas Collection at the University of Kansas, or to get a great perspective on Lawrence counter-culture in the 60s and 70s, check out ’Cows are Freaky When They Look at You: An Oral History of the Kaw Valley Hemp Pickers’ (or just ask Chuck). Now, as for the beer…the Vortex Red is a blend of Scottish and German malts resulting in a medium body, dark red hue, and a hint of roastiness. Amarillo hops contribute some earthy, citrus character, but piney, resinous Chinook hops really stand out in the finish of this winter warmer. The Skinny: A medium bodied, dark red ale, with a pronounced, piney hop finish. O.G. - 15.4P/1.062, 60 IBUs, 6.1% ABV