Goose Island is Chicago's greatest regional brewery growing from a single brewpub on Chicago's north side in 1988 to now being bottled and sold in 15 states as well as the UK. (My apologies to those living in areas without access to Goose Island Beers.)

Goose Island Brewery has earned itself a loyal following with their flavorful line-up of regulars and seasonal brews that always seem to strike the perfect balance of classical styling with a steadfast Goose Island house style accent. Over a dozen different styles are produced each year. The Matilda, inspired by the great Belgian Abbey Style Ales, is part of the brewery's specialty line that is presented in 4-packs (as opposed to the standard 6-packs used for their other beers) and adorned with unembellished labels.

The Matilda is an ideal food companion pairing well with soft-rind cheese, smoked salmon, and of course, steamed mussels.