Happy Birthday Michael Jackson
No. Not the anorexic identity challenged pop star. We’re celebrating the real Michael Jackson. People in the know, are familiar with one of the foremost writers on the art of beer, whiskey, and other libations. One of his most popular contributions was his “Beer Hunter” series. But, his appreciation of Whiskey is the inspiration behind international Whiskey day. And, that is today: March 27. So, happy Birthday Michael Jackson, and, happy Whiskey day, everybody!
Unfortunately, he left us in 2007, after hiding his Parkinson’s disease for nearly a decade. People thought he was just drunk. But, we owe him a great debt of gratitude for his contributions to all things alcohol. He rose to prominence in the late 70’s; and, spent the next couple decades changing the way we thought about beer and whiskey. If any of you remember, before him, the most popular beers in America were Budweiser and Miller. Heinekin was exotic. And, Guinness was some strange Elixir from Ireland. His work changed all of that. Especially fond of Belgian ales, his work made us culturally aware of multiple styles of beers, ales, and whiskeys. We probably wouldn’t have beers like Blue Moon, Celis, a whole fridge full of various IPA’s or session ales if it weren’t for him. So, raise a pint and say, “Happy Birthday Michael Jackson”.
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Happy Birthday Michael Jackson and Happy International whiskey day!
While the bulk of his work was beer related, he became the foremost expert on Whiskey or Whisky (depending on where you are) with his world renowned book: Michael Jackson’s Malt Whisky Companion. Released in 1989, it remains the number one book on the subject. Hence, international Whisk(e)y day was born in the Netherlands. Throughout his life he received numerous awards including “Keeper of the Quaich; Master of the Quaich” from the scotch whisky industry.
And, it makes sense. Whisky, whether it be scotch, rye, bourbon, or other is, essentially, distilled malt (which is the main ingredient in beer). So, to be the worlds foremost expert on whiskey and beer is a natural thing. And, thanks to him, Single malt scotch is available worldwide. Before him, people were happy with blends. But, the palate worldwide demands a higher quality whisky. So, thank you and Happy Birthday Michael Jackson; and, Happy International whiskey day!
Screw Thriller. Here’s a true Swiller!
While many people think of the pop star when they hear the name Michael Jackson, ours is the real deal. While the “Thriller” singer had a long and storied career, the Author we honor today is actually a bigger deal in his milieu. If you search for pop stars, you’ll get a list of 1,000’s of names. But, if you google Beer and whiskey experts, only one name comes up: Michael Jackson. And, ours is the original. Michael Jackson, the author, was born in 1942. The other guy: 1958. And, while the singer is known as the Prince of pop; the author is the undisputed King of Beer writers. So, how does that grab your crotch?!
So, put away the sequined glove, cheap, tacky 80’s clothes, and ditch the dance moves for some true appreciation of all things beer and whiskey. And, remember, whiskey is actually good for you. The name derives from Gaelic, and means “water of life”. The Scots originally claimed it would slow aging, fix congestion, and cure your joint pains. And, during prohibition doctors actually prescribed it for Pneumonia and other ailments (probably as ruse to get around prohibition).
But modern science has actually proven some real health benefits:
- it is rich in anti-oxidants, so it may help stave off cancer (or at least pickle your liver)
- It is high in phosphorous, zinc, Iron, and a couple B vitamins
- It has fewer calories than most other alcohols
- It is lower in carbs and sugar than most other alcohols
- It is high in Polyphenols that help reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol.
- It can help widen blood cells, which cuts down on mucus, and increase your ability to combat a cold or infection (So the Scots were right).
- It increases immunity response
- It stimulates GABA neurotransmitters associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s.
All that being said, this is based on low to moderate consumption. Excessive alcohol use is associated with a host of problems. So, don’t go pound a bottle of chivas every day. But, do raise a shot and a pint to our dearly departed drunkard: Happy Birthday Michael Jackson!
While you’re at it, enjoy some of our other articles related to Scotch and beer like our tribute to Scotland, Robert Burns, or a number of posts on beer including some good homebrew recipes.
