Wandering Don: the beer that tells a story of friendship

Every beer tells a story, but some have the power to transport us into a tale of friendship, curiosity, and passion for beer. Wandering Don, the new IPA created by Firestone Walker in collaboration with Odell Brewing Co., is one of these.

Behind the Beer: the man behind the name

The name Wandering Don draws inspiration from Donald Brynildson, grandfather of brewmaster Matt Brynildson and historic member of the Firestone Walker team.
Don was a fixture at major beer festivals, from the Great American Beer Festival to the Firestone Walker Invitational. Known for his contagious cheerfulness and tendency to “wander” among the booths, he always returned with new friendships and new stories to tell.

Once, during a festival, he disappeared for a few hours: he was found shortly after celebrating with the Odell Brewing team. From that encounter a bond was born destined to last over time, and today, with Wandering Don, that spirit lives again in a beer that celebrates curiosity and connection.

A collaboration with the scent of the West Coast

Created to celebrate the Firestone Walker Invitational Beer Fest 2025, Wandering Don is a West Coast-style IPA with a bold yet balanced character. On the nose, notes of citrus, grapefruit, pine, and passion fruit burst forth, while on the palate the sip is fresh, harmonious, and vibrant. A tribute not only to the American hoppy beer tradition, but also to the ability to transform a personal memory into a shared experience.

A toast to Don (and to those who love to wander a bit)

Beyond telling a fascinating story, Wandering Don is an invitation to experience the world of beer with curiosity and a desire to discover new flavors. It’s a beer to share with friends, to enjoy during a festival… or to add to your collection of selected beers.
Because sometimes, as Don taught us, the best discoveries are made precisely when you stop following the beaten path.