08 Feb St. Arnold Fancy Lawnmower by Tam

Fancy Lawnmower

Saint Arnold Brewing Company

Houston, TX (Lyons Avenue)

German Style Kolsch

ABV: 4.9%

IBUs: 16

Packaging: Draft, 12oz. Cans and Bottles

What perfect February weather! The crisp winter wind whipping through our hairs as we indulge in the final euphoric moments of Super Bowl LI and…who am I kidding?

It’s freaking warmer than a beer being nursed by my wife (that’s really warm). With the sun shining and the humidity on the rise, “Winter” in Houston is in full effect. Although we may miss out on some of the more iconic events of the midwinter season, like snowfall and icy roads, it allows us Texans to enjoy the finer points of our state. I have to admit that my grilling capabilities have increased tenfold which in turn allows me to enjoy more tasty year round beverages.

This week, I decided to go back to an old reliable “safety blanket” craft brew from those hard working brew masters over at St. Arnold. Many of us have probably partaken in a St. Arnold lunch or weekend get together, so indulge me for a few moments as I word vomit my enjoyment of a faithful brew.

Fancy Lawnmower made its debut in August 2000; it was one of St. Arnold’s first takes on German style Kolsch. It was their goal to produce a “slightly delicate beer” in their year round regime without perverting their beliefs in creating quality-styled beer, and boy did they succeed. They did so well in fact, this particular brew earned several medals and even took home the 2010 Great American Beer Festival Gold – Kolsch Category.

Fancy Lawnmower, when poured, produces a delicious golden straw color with quickly dissolving head. It’s floral scents enhances the bitter beginnings but pairs well with its smooth fine finish. This concoction is light enough that the drinker could enjoy this brew and not feel to “heavy” or “full” so as to continue with whatever task they have laid before them. As their website suggests, it was created for those weekend warriors who use their sunny days completing home improvement projects or enjoying their favorite sporting event.

The brews packaging is graced by the Patron Saint of Beers whom seems to be blessing the silhouette figure toiling away on his lawn, its background is fresh grass clippings that envelop the entire can/bottle. Those slight “easter egg” style details is what always entertains me the most, from the “Texas Sun” to the break in grass that reveals the Lawnmowers progress it gives me that confidence that if the good people of St. Arnold was to give so much thought in just the packaging, then the quality of beer must be even better.

Of course, if you have read this far, you know my take on the delicious brew and so we come to the point where I ask you my friends what is your opinion on this tasty beverage. Did the Patron Saint of Brewers grace your taste buds and fulfill your craft cravings, or were you left longing in the purgatory of want and dry mouth fields of repentance? Let us know in the comments below, and as always “Beers to you, Houston!”