On a classic Montana summer day last June, our head of maintenance at the brewery, Gus (that’s ‘Mr. Magic Fingers’ to us), was on his way to a fishing excursion on the Clark Fork River. He came around the corner and saw something he had never seen before, a very young pygmy owl, approximately an inch in height. The tiny critter sat on the side of the trail with a fly on its head, and stared at Gus. As Gus stared back, he took out his cell phone and snapped a couple of shots.

The next day at the brewery, Gus shared the photos of his new friend. We all thought this “itty bitty” owl was pretty cool. So cool in fact, that we decided to post a shot on Facebook and see if the little guy was worthy of having a beer named after him.

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Based on the comments and likes, the overwhelming response was YES.  Seven months later, we’re happy to announce the arrival of Pygmy Owl “Itty Bitty” IPA.

Pygmy Owl is an IPA with full fledged hop taste and aroma, yet is remarkably low in alcohol. In fact, it clocks in at only 4.2% ABV. An IPA with full flavor, but without the harsh bitterness. And the best part, you can have more than one without getting that drunkied up feeling.

Style: India Pale Ale

Color: 6

ABV% 4.2%

IBU’s 30

Malts: Pale,Cara Pils

Hops: El Dorado, Mosaic