Mad Tom is back

After a short hiatus, Maritime fans of Muskoka Brewery’s Mad Tom will be happy to learn the IPA returned to the NSLC and ANBL this month. Mad Tom is an aggressively hopped IPA that is crisp and citrusy that uses Chinook and Centennial hops for dry-hopping, lending to Mad Tom’s vibrant aroma and blunt character. It pairs best with strong dishes such as smoked fish, burgers, a sharp cheese or spicy dishes. The hops cut through the spice, contrast with delicate flavours, and compliment rich flavours. Mad Tom is not for everyone and weighs in at 6.4% ABV and 64 IBUs.

Beer Review - Muskoka Brewery Mad Tom IPA

Mad Tom IPA comes to Nova Scotia from Muskoka Brewery. Nestled in the heart of Ontario’s iconic Muskoka Region, Muskoka Brewery's founders Gary McMullen and Kirk Evans opened Muskoka Brewery in Bracebridge, Ontario in 1996. Mad Tom is a healthy 6.4% ABV and 62 IBUs with Chinook and Centennial hops for dry-hopping.


Appearance - The beer is a dark gold color and hazy with a nice head on the pour that quickly dissipates. 

Aroma - Not a lot of hops on the nose but did get some nice malt.

Taste - On sipping this one I got some grapefruit, pine and slight carmel. It has a dryness that lingers .

Mouthfeel - It has a good amount carbonation with a medium mouth feel. 

Overall - This is a strong beer that is well balanced and very enjoyable.

Mad Tom is available in 6 packs at the the NSLC now.

Muskoka Brewery adds two offerings in the NSLC

      Muskoka Brewery had a launch party at The Stubborn Goat in Halifax to announce the launch of two of its beers, Mad Tom IPA and Winter Beard Double Chocolate Cranberry Stout, at the NSLC. Muskoka is not new to Nova Scotia as it was available at private stores in HRM for sometime now.

     Craig Prentice spoke to the attendees about Muskoka Brewery's history and distribution within Canada and in addition to Mad Tom and Winter Beard they are bringing a couple more offerings to the NSLC in the spring.

      The Stubborn Goat had a great sampling of fare to go with the beers we could try. I first tried the Mad Tom, this IPA is a strong 6.4% ABV and is dry-hopped with Chinook and Centennial hops giving it a crisp aroma and a very citruy and piney taste. 

      I was worried that the Winter Beard was going to be overwhelmed by sweetness and chocolate but the chocolate and sweetness were just right and after that flavor faded a fruitiness lingered. This is a nice beer to sip and enjoy on a cool winters night.

     Both beers are in the NSLC system now with Mad Tom being a year-round offering and the Winter Beard for Christmas.

     Watch for a full review on these beers coming soon.