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It’s Time to Say Something About Canada’s Reaction to Trump’s Tariff (Opinion Piece by Lew Bryson)

Lew Bryson — Sat, 08 Mar 2025 20:30:39 +0000

It’s Time to Say Something About Canada’s Reaction to Trump’s Tariff

Lew Bryson, a remarkable writer about beer, whiskey, and all things Central PA recently posted this on his personal Facebook account, and said he didn’t have an outlet for posting it. So I immediately offered to host it here.

For those who don’t know Lew, check to the end of the piece to see my quick biography of Lew, and including links to his podcast as well as our podcast we did with Lew. But quickly, I will say this – Lew is a remarkable person, a fantastic writer, historian, and has an excellent sense of character, intelligence, and understanding. Empathetic and understanding, he understands people, all people, and even more importantly for this opinion piece – he knows what he’s talking about. This is an incredible piece, and I full heartedly agree with it (thus why I immediately jumped at the idea of hosting it here on the site).

Canadian Liquor Store Shelves (photo courtesy of Google, and selected by Lew Bryson)

Here goes. It’s time to say something about Canada’s reaction to Trump’s tariff sabre-rattling. For those of you who have been in a cave — and I can’t 100% say that I blame you — part of Canada’s response, part of their retaliation, to the threat of tariffs imposed on Canadian goods coming into the US has been focused on the US booze industries: spirits, wine, beer, and, I suppose, cider.

Some provinces, like Ontario, that have government alcohol wholesale/retail monopolies of various breadths, have not only stopped buying American booze, but have taken what they have off the shelves in their provincial stores. The LCBO, Ontario’s monopoly system, is one of the five largest alcohol retailers in the world; they have, to the best of my knowledge, taken all American-made products off their shelves; boxed it up and put it in storage. (It’s not like the spirits and wine, the greatest part of this, are going to go stale, to be fair.)

I know a lot of people in the industry on BOTH sides of the border. They have had various reactions to this. Some Americans are outraged; some are confused (“They’ve already paid for those bottles! Why not sell them and then not buy more?!”); some are tentatively supportive; a few strongly support these moves. Almost all of them feel that this is personally unfair; they didn’t impose the tariffs, after all, and — honestly, it’s true — why is booze always the first American product to feel retaliation?

What’s worse, in my eyes, is that some Americans have the attitude of “so what, Canada, who cares? Their whisky sucks, and I don’t need them, and neither does American whiskey.” I’m embarrassed when I hear people who should know better say things like that. First, their whisky by God DOESN’T suck, but that’s not the point. The point is that NONE OF THIS HAD TO HAPPEN, and we don’t make it better by pretending it doesn’t matter. More on that below.

But if any of the Canadians I know — some of whom I count as friends of long standing — have a reaction other than blazing defiance, I haven’t heard from them yet. The most common reaction has been pure Canada: a non-smiling “Elbows up!”, echoing Mr. Hockey, Saskatchewan-born Gordie Howe, a player who took no shit off anyone. Anyone who tried to slash Howe was getting a fast elbow to the head. Canada’s ready for this, and they’re not kidding.

Any argument by American producers/suppliers/exporters must be seen in this light. I’ve seen people say that the Canadian response, taking everything off the shelves, leaving only blank space behind, is disproportionate, that it makes no sense, that it goes further than the American tariffs.

Well, they’re right. It IS disproportionate to the tariffs. This doesn’t just affect day-to-day, month-on-month sales. This kind of action also attacks something much more valuable: the brand. Raise the price while leaving the bottles on the shelf, and you paradoxically make people think about the brand more, maybe even realize how much they ARE willing to spend to get it.

But take the bottles away, the facing, replacing it with a “BUY CANADIAN INSTEAD” sign, and the product becomes invisible. You’re not thinking about the Jack, or the Mondavi, and what you’d pay for them. No, you’re automatically thinking “Welp, I guess I’ll get some Lot 40 or Gibson’s 12. I’ll get some Quail’s Gate for dinner, or how about that Italian red? I’ve got no beef with the Italians.” The American brands are no longer even a choice, and that does long-term damage to the brand. As Don Draper put it in his icily cutting response, “I don’t think about you at all.”

Now, multiply that times every American product that we send to Canada. Unless it’s absolutely something where buying Canadian isn’t an option, it’s gone, and the memory is fading, or worse, indelibly tinged with anger.

Why anger? Because of tariffs imposed by an ally, a country that has been an ally for so long, in so many things, that for them to turn on Canada isn’t just economics, it’s betrayal, a shocking discard of trust.

And as I said above, none of this had to happen. We have a trade treaty with Canada, we have over 200 years of trade with Canada with only the ‘small hiccup’ of the War of 1812 to interrupt it (kidding, not kidding, you kicked our asses and sent us home, but we’re cool). We have zero legitimate issues with Canadian trade, and the “look at the tariffs Canada puts on American products!!” misinformation you’ve seen lately are all part of that trade treaty. We have no real trade problems with Canada.

But it’s worse than that, much worse. Trump’s constant needling about the “51st state,” and “Governor” Trudeau, about border issues and annexing part or all of the country, whether or not it’s another of his insanely unfunny jokes, has Canadians concerned, and rightly so. They’re concerned about the intentions of a superpower that has set the tone of restraint in international politics for the past 50 years, but has suddenly begun openly talking about grabbing territory. Canada, Greenland, Panama, Cuba, Gaza; why would they not take Trump seriously?

So for the Canadians, this is not about economics, this is not about money. It is about national existence, and the response should not be expected to ‘make sense’ in economic terms. The Canadians did not choose this fight. It was shoved onto them by one man, President Donald Trump, elected by a plurality of American voters, who apparently support him. If they don’t take that seriously, they’re deluding themselves.

Bottom line, then. Canada has been needlessly forced to this point. They’ve been pushed into the corner, and like any good hockey player, they’ve got their elbows up, ready to push it off and deal it out, and we should not be surprised by that. This game is being played at levels above the liquor store, but it still plays out there, like wars, politicians, and soldiers.

Don’t be angry with your Canadian customer; don’t be angry with your American supplier. Neither of them is to blame. Blame the ones who made this happen.

Lew Bryson Biography

Lew Bryson is a renowned journalist and author specializing in beer and whiskey. He began his career in the beverage industry in the early 1990s, initially focusing on beer before expanding to whiskey in 1997. His writing has been featured in prominent publications such as The Daily Beast, All About Beer Magazine, Whiskey Wash, and Craft Spirits Magazine. Bryson’s passion for craft beer was ignited during a visit to a German beer bar in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where he discovered the unique flavors of Altenmünster pilsner.

Bryson has been a full-time drinks writer since 1995 and served as the managing editor at Whisky Advocate magazine from 1996 to 2015. He is known for his extensive knowledge and engaging writing style, which has made him a respected voice in the beer and whiskey communities. Bryson has authored several books, including state brewery guidebooks and “Tasting Whiskey,” and more recently, “Whiskey Master Class,” released in 2020.

Throughout his career, Bryson has been recognized for his contributions to the beverage industry. His work spans multiple platforms, including his blog “Seen Through a Glass,” where he shares insights and reviews on beer and whiskey. Bryson continues to be an influential figure, offering guidance and commentary on the evolving world of craft beverages.

Seen Through a Glass Podcast

To be able to listen, watch, and download Lew’s Seen Through a Glass Podcast, you can use one of these services:

Seen Through a Glass – Lew Bryson’s Blog and Podcast
Seen Through a Glass – PodBean
Seen Through a Glass – Spotify

Our Articles With Lew Bryson

Thank You For Reading

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The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2025.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

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Toppling Goliath to Release Naughty Temple

B. Kline — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 13:12:10 +0000

Toppling Goliath to Release Naughty Temple

Introducing Naughty Temple: an amber-colored ale aged to perfection in whiskey barrels. This bold craft beer boasts an impressive 12.9% ABV and will be available in 22oz bottles. Stay tuned for release details!

Exploring Toppling Goliath: A Craft Beer Giant

Toppling Goliath Brewing Company, located in Decorah, Iowa, has made a significant impact on the craft beer scene since its founding in 2009. Renowned for its bold and innovative brews, Toppling Goliath has garnered a loyal following and numerous accolades. The brewery’s commitment to quality and creativity has set it apart, making it a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts.

One of the standout beers from Toppling Goliath is the King Sue Double IPA, a powerful and hoppy brew that showcases the brewery’s expertise in hop-forward beers. Another fan favorite is the Kentucky Brunch Brand Stout, a rich and complex beer aged in bourbon barrels, which consistently ranks among the best stouts in the world. These flagship offerings, along with a rotating selection of seasonal and limited-edition beers, ensure that there’s always something exciting on tap at Toppling Goliath.

In addition to its impressive beer lineup, Toppling Goliath is known for its vibrant community engagement and support of local events. The brewery’s taproom in Decorah is a welcoming space where visitors can enjoy fresh pours, brewery tours, and special events. Toppling Goliath’s dedication to both its craft and its community has solidified its reputation as one of the top craft breweries in the United States.

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

MAPS OF BREWERIES

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #7 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #8 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2023.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

Craft Beer Hot Toddies

B. Kline — Thu, 16 May 2024 13:23:00 +0000

The Hot Toddy

The Hot Toddy, a comforting and soothing beverage enjoyed by many during cold winter nights, has a history that stretches back centuries. Its origins are somewhat mysterious, with various theories about how and when it was first concocted. One prevailing belief is that the Hot Toddy originated in Scotland in the 18th century, where it was initially used as a medicinal drink to ward off the cold and alleviate common ailments such as sore throats and congestion.

The basic components of a Hot Toddy typically include warm water, whiskey or another spirit, honey, and lemon, although variations abound. The warmth of the beverage, combined with the soothing properties of honey and the tartness of lemon, create a comforting elixir that can provide temporary relief from cold symptoms and offer a moment of relaxation during chilly weather. Some recipes also incorporate spices like cinnamon, cloves, or ginger for added flavor and warmth.

Over time, the Hot Toddy evolved from a medicinal remedy to a beloved winter cocktail enjoyed for its comforting qualities and rich flavors. It became particularly popular in regions with cold climates, where the need for warmth and comfort during the winter months was especially pronounced. Today, the Hot Toddy remains a staple of winter drink menus in bars and homes alike, offering a timeless combination of warmth, flavor, and comfort that continues to delight drinkers around the world. Whether sipped by the fireside on a snowy evening or enjoyed as a festive holiday treat, the Hot Toddy remains a cherished tradition that embodies the spirit of warmth and hospitality.

Reasons to Drink a Hot Toddy

There are myriad reasons why one might reach for a hot toddy, beyond just seeking warmth on a chilly evening. For starters, a hot toddy can be a soothing remedy for a sore throat or a nagging cold. The combination of warm liquid, usually spiked with whiskey or another spirit, along with honey and lemon, provides a comforting elixir that can help alleviate congestion and provide temporary relief from symptoms. The steam rising from the mug carries with it a comforting aroma that can clear the sinuses and offer a moment of respite from the discomfort of illness.

Furthermore, a hot toddy is not just a beverage; it’s a ritual. Whether enjoyed alone as a form of self-care or shared with loved ones, preparing and sipping on a hot toddy can be a moment of relaxation and indulgence. It’s a chance to slow down, unwind, and savor the flavors and aromas that come together in the comforting embrace of a warm mug. From cozy evenings by the fireplace to festive gatherings during the holiday season, the hot toddy has a way of bringing people together and creating moments of warmth and connection amidst the chill of winter. So whether you’re seeking comfort, relief, or simply a moment of relaxation, there’s always a reason to reach for a hot toddy.

Do Hot Toddies Help with Colds

While hot toddies are often touted as a remedy for cold symptoms, it’s important to understand that they do not cure colds or treat the underlying viral infection. However, hot toddies can offer some temporary relief from certain cold symptoms and provide comfort during illness.

The warmth of a hot toddy can help soothe a sore throat and alleviate congestion by loosening mucus, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, the steam from the hot beverage can help clear nasal passages, providing temporary relief from stuffiness. The honey and lemon commonly found in hot toddy recipes may also offer some throat-soothing properties and provide a boost of vitamin C, which can support the immune system.

Furthermore, the addition of whiskey or another spirit in a hot toddy can provide a warming sensation and may help promote relaxation, which can be beneficial when you’re feeling under the weather.

However, it’s essential to drink hot toddies in moderation, especially if you’re using alcohol as a component, and to stay hydrated with plenty of water or other non-alcoholic beverages. Additionally, hot toddies should not be used as a substitute for proper medical treatment when dealing with a cold or any other illness. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms or if your cold persists for an extended period, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional.

Craft Beer Hot Toddies

Some great craft beers to make a hot toddy with

There are many great craft beers you can make a hot toddy with. Mad Elf by Troegs Independent Brewing is a personal favorite. Years ago Anchor Steam’s Christmas Ale was also a fantastic choice. Any “Winter Warmer” that has a good spice blend, and preferably high in ABV will do well for a hot toddy.

Craft beer hot toddies offer a unique twist on the traditional hot toddy by incorporating flavorful craft beer into the mix. Here are a few recipes that could attract attention:

Spiced Winter Warmer Hot Toddy:
- Ingredients:
  - 1 bottle of winter warmer craft beer (such as a spiced ale or barleywine)
  - 1 oz bourbon or dark rum
  - 1 tablespoon honey
  - Juice of half a lemon
  - Cinnamon stick and/or cloves for garnish
- Instructions:
  1. In a saucepan, heat the craft beer over low heat until warm but not boiling.
  2. In a mug, combine the warm beer, bourbon or rum, honey, and lemon juice. Stir until the honey is dissolved.
  3. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and/or cloves for added flavor and aroma.
  4. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy winter flavors.
Citrus IPA Hot Toddy:
- Ingredients:
  - 1 bottle of citrus-forward IPA craft beer
  - 1 oz whiskey or bourbon
  - 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  - Juice of half an orange
  - Orange slice and rosemary sprig for garnish
- Instructions:
  1. In a small saucepan, heat the craft beer over low heat until warmed through.
  2. In a mug, combine the warm beer, whiskey or bourbon, maple syrup, and orange juice.
  3. Stir well to combine and dissolve the maple syrup.
  4. Garnish with an orange slice and a sprig of rosemary for a pop of color and flavor.
  5. Serve hot and savor the refreshing citrus notes with a hint of warmth from the whiskey.
Chocolate Stout Hot Toddy:
- Ingredients:
  - 1 bottle of chocolate stout craft beer
  - 1 oz Irish whiskey
  - 1 tablespoon honey or chocolate syrup
  - Pinch of cinnamon
  - Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish
- Instructions:
  1. In a saucepan, gently heat the chocolate stout over low heat until warm.
  2. In a mug, combine the warm beer, Irish whiskey, honey or chocolate syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon.
  3. Stir until the honey or chocolate syrup is fully dissolved.
  4. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for a decadent touch.
  5. Serve hot and indulge in the rich, chocolaty flavors with a hint of whiskey warmth.

These craft beer hot toddy recipes offer a delightful combination of flavors and are perfect for cozy nights by the fire or holiday gatherings with friends and family. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and proportions to suit your taste preferences. Cheers!

Pints and Panels breakdown of a Hot Toddy (photo and drawing courtesy of Pints and Panels)

Traditional Hot Toddy

A traditional hot toddy is a simple yet comforting beverage that combines warm water or tea with whiskey, honey, lemon, and sometimes spices. Here’s a classic recipe:

Ingredients:

1 cup hot water
1 1/2 oz whiskey (bourbon, Scotch, or Irish whiskey are commonly used)
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
Optional: cinnamon stick or lemon wedge for garnish

Instructions:

Start by heating water until it’s hot but not boiling. You can do this on the stove or by heating water in a kettle.
While the water is heating, add whiskey, honey, and lemon juice to a mug.
Once the water is heated, pour it into the mug with the other ingredients.
Stir the mixture until the honey is fully dissolved.
Optionally, garnish with a cinnamon stick or a lemon wedge for added flavor and presentation.
Allow the hot toddy to cool slightly before sipping, as it can be quite hot initially.
Enjoy the warm, soothing flavors of the traditional hot toddy.

Feel free to adjust the ingredients and proportions according to your taste preferences. Some people like their hot toddies a bit sweeter, so you can add more honey if desired. Similarly, you can adjust the amount of whiskey to suit your preference for a stronger or milder drink.

The Hot Toddy

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

MAPS OF BREWERIES

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #7 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #8 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2023.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

Whiskey - The Beer Thrillers

It’s Time to Say Something About Canada’s Reaction to Trump’s Tariff (Opinion Piece by Lew Bryson)

It’s Time to Say Something About Canada’s Reaction to Trump’s Tariff

Lew Bryson Biography

Seen Through a Glass Podcast

Our Articles With Lew Bryson

Thank You For Reading

Toppling Goliath to Release Naughty Temple

Toppling Goliath to Release Naughty Temple

Exploring Toppling Goliath: A Craft Beer Giant

Other Toppling Goliath Articles

For More Information on Toppling Goliath

Thank You For Reading

Craft Beer Hot Toddies

The Hot Toddy

Reasons to Drink a Hot Toddy

Do Hot Toddies Help with Colds

Craft Beer Hot Toddies

Traditional Hot Toddy

Thank You For Reading