Lake of Bays China Wall Vienna Dark Lager, Ontario
BEPPI CROSARIOL The Globe and Mail
Hockey fans of a certain vintage (who, me?) may get the “China Wall” reference. It’s the nickname of Johnny Bower, legendary Maple Leafs goaltender during the 1960s, who is honoured in this limited-edition, premium brew. It’s part of Lake of Bays’s fundraising collaboration with the NHL Alumni Association, which helps players transition into post-hockey careers.
The arresting painted-label graphic, of an old-school goalie mask reminiscent of the one worn by Jason in Friday the 13th, is ironic. Bower played with Toronto for more than a decade but donned a mask for just 17 games. I can’t help but add that he was my boyhood idol, an avuncular face with a famous poke check, who helped the Leafs earn four Stanley Cups, including the team’s last in 1967. READ MORE.