Who knew? Saskatchewan apparently has the sexiest beer. At least according to this curious Globe and Mail article from last week it does (thanks to Chad for pointing it out to me). Apparently potassium has been found to be something of an aphrodisiac (not that I would want to eat it straight…) as it stimulates sex hormones. Of course potassium is a key component in potash which underlies a good chunk of Saskatchewan. This, the article claims, leads to higher potassium levels in Saskatchewan barley, and thus the conclusion, at least by the CEO of Great Western, that Saskatchewan beer is sexier.

I am skeptical, but sign me up for the double-blind, controlled experiment to prove it.

Of course, if it is true, then that means Paddock Wood and any other western brewer who uses Saskatchewan malt would also be loaded with “love barley”. Guess I have to add a new question for my interview lists: where does your malt come from, big boy?

The bulk of the article redeems itself by offering an interesting history and overview of Great Western. I have a soft spot for Great Western. While their beer is not aimed at guys like me, I really admire that when Molson wanted to shut their plant down, the workers said “fuhgeddaboudit!” and bought the damned thing. It is no longer a worker coop, but still offers a classic example of what can be done to keep brewing traditions (and jobs) alive. If only the Edmonton Molson plant could have experienced a similar fate…

It is also interesting to note, buried in the article, that Great Western, who built its business on affordable mass market beer, is looking at moving into the craftier end of the beer spectrum, where it would offer beer at a higher price point that appeals to guys like me. I am curious to see how that might work out. Other larger volume brewers have tried such a strategy, generally with little success, but I will keep my mind open until I taste the beer.