Princess Wears Girlpants Golden Ale – Craft Beer of the Day
Nestled in Gravenhurst, Ontario, the gateway to Muskoka, Sawdust City Brewing Company has carved out a reputation for crafting exceptional beers that capture the spirit of their region. Among their standout offerings is The Princess Wears Girlpants, a bold and unique Muskokan Saison that defies traditional beer styles while celebrating friendship, locality, and the joys of sharing a pint. This article dives into the story, flavor profile, and cultural significance of this 9% ABV hoppy Belgian-inspired golden ale, a seasonal favorite that’s as aromatic as it is easy-drinking.
The Origin Story: A Beer for Friends
The Princess Wears Girlpants was born from a desire to please two friends with distinct tastes—one a fan of hoppy ales, the other enamored with Belgian ales and saisons. Rather than compromising, Sawdust City’s brew team, led by Brewmaster Sam Corbeil, decided to blend these preferences into something entirely new. The result? A beer that doesn’t fit neatly into any style but embodies the essence of Muskoka’s spring and summer seasons. As the brewery describes it, this is a beer about “our hometown, our friends, and our history.” It’s a tribute to the moments spent outdoors, enjoying nature and good company.
The name itself, The Princess Wears Girlpants, reflects the brewery’s playful yet defiant approach to convention. It’s a nod to owning one’s identity and creating something that speaks to who they are—a Muskokan Saison, a term coined by Sawdust City to capture its regional and stylistic uniqueness. Available from March to August, this seasonal release is designed for sharing, encouraging drinkers to grab a can, a few glasses, and their closest friends.
Flavor Profile and Brewing Process
The Princess Wears Girlpants is a hazy golden ale that pours with a chunky, pure white head and leaves behind impressive lacing. Its aroma is a vibrant mix of fruity, citrusy hops and spicy, fruity yeast esters, with notes of tropical fruit, pear, lemon, cloves, and cotton candy. The flavor follows suit, balancing hoppy bitterness with Belgian-inspired complexity. Loaded with Ella, Galaxy, and Amarillo hops, the beer delivers a juicy citrus and tropical fruit character, complemented by a spicy clove backbone and a moderately dry, highly carbonated finish. At 9% ABV and 35 IBU, it’s a “huge” yet surprisingly drinkable beer, with the alcohol heat present but not overpowering.
Reviewers on platforms like BeerAdvocate and Untappd praise its complexity, with some noting its lean toward Tripel territory due to its light bitterness and lingering fruitiness. Others highlight the hop-forward nature, with Galaxy and Amarillo hops stealing the show, while Ella adds a distinctive twist. However, not all reviews are glowing—some find the bitterness more pronounced than expected or the Belgian character lacking, suggesting it feels more like an IPA than a traditional saison. Despite these critiques, the beer’s unique profile and bold execution make it a standout.
The brewing process reflects Sawdust City’s adventurous spirit. The beer began as a hoppy Belgian golden ale but evolved into a Muskokan Saison, a style the brewery defines on its own terms. The use of New Zealand and American hops, combined with Belgian yeast strains, creates a fusion of Old World and New World flavors. Over the years, Sawdust City has experimented with variations, such as The Princess Wears Girlpants Saison with Guava and The Princess & Girlpants Meet the ODB, a barrel-aged version with oak and funk notes, showcasing their willingness to push boundaries.
Cultural and Community Impact
The Princess Wears Girlpants is more than just a beer—it’s a celebration of Muskoka’s identity and Sawdust City’s commitment to community. The brewery, founded by Sam Corbeil and Rob Engman, draws heavily on the region’s pioneer spirit, and this beer embodies that ethos. It’s a reminder to appreciate the simple pleasures of life—friends, nature, and a well-crafted brew. The beer’s seasonal release aligns with Muskoka’s vibrant spring and summer, making it a staple at cottages, patios, and gatherings across Ontario.
Available at Sawdust City’s retail shop, online store, and select beer bars in Ontario, The Princess Wears Girlpants has become a fan favorite since its debut. Its return each year, as noted in a 2019 Canadian Beer News announcement, is a highlight of the brewery’s 52-week release schedule. The beer’s versatility also makes it a great pairing for a wide range of foods, from spicy dishes to creamy cheeses, further cementing its place in Ontario’s craft beer culture.
The beer has also inspired spin-offs and collaborations, such as The Princess Wears Hot Pants, a Belgian Blonde with a peppery twist, and Bizarro The Princess Wears Girlpants, a wild ale. These variations highlight Sawdust City’s innovative approach and willingness to experiment while staying true to the core identity of the original.
Why It Stands Out
In a crowded craft beer market, The Princess Wears Girlpants distinguishes itself through its bold flavors, unique style, and heartfelt story. It’s a beer that doesn’t aim to conform but instead creates its own category—a Muskokan Saison that’s as much about place and people as it is about taste. With an average rating of 3.7/5 on Untappd and 85/100 on BeerAdvocate, it’s clear that this beer resonates with many, even if it occasionally divides opinions due to its unconventional profile.
For those looking to experience Muskoka in a glass, The Princess Wears Girlpants is a must-try. It’s a testament to Sawdust City Brewing’s dedication to crafting beers that tell a story, challenge expectations, and bring people together. So, as the brewery suggests, grab a can, pour a few glasses, and toast to the friends and moments that make life special.
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