Go figure... you leave Sir Pour alone for 15 minutes while you run into the store for a six-pack and he goes on a complete bender. Sorry you had to wait so long to find out what to drink! I had to sober him up, and get him coherent before he was ready to utter today's brew.

Lonerider Sweet Josie Brown Ale

The Brewery

Based out of Raleigh, NC– the folks at Lonerider are fairly new to the scene after establishing their brewery in just 2009. Since that time they have spread throughout the state, and into South Carolina offering a handful of extremely good selections.

According to their website, this is their philosophy towards brewing:

Effect change, don't be an audience. Walk your own path, and instead of thinking outside the box imagine what if there was no box.

The Brew

Sweet Josie is an extremely smooth, and easily drinkable brown ale. Well balanced, it offers a great mix of roasted malt flavors, with just enough hop-bitterness and carbonation to balance the brew. Sitting at a comfortable 6.1% ABV, it wont knock you flat, but you should respect it.

How it relates to the game

Balance is something the Panthers have been missing this season. Whether it's a lack of balance on offense, or a lack of performance by the defense, this is a team in need of getting in sync. If Carolina can model their game the way Sweet Josie drinks they'll be able to get the victory.

Availability/price

Can be found in grocery stores across North Carolina, and in specialty stores in South Carolina.

$8-10 per six-pack