Introducing Czech Your Head Dark Lager and 29 to Life Cali Common – A Coastal-Desert Collaboration
Craft beer lovers, get ready for an exciting new collaboration! California Wild Ales, OB Brewery, and 29 Palms Beer Company have joined forces to bring you two unique and flavorful brews that reflect the best of their respective brewing styles. These collaboration beers, Czech Your Head and 29 to Life, were brewed at two different locations, each showcasing the expertise and creative vision of the brewing teams involved.
“This collaboration was a chance for all of us to step outside of our comfort zones, learn from each other, and make something truly special,” said Zack Brager, co-founder of California Wild Ales. “Each beer tells its own story—one inspired by the cool, coastal vibes of Ocean Beach, and the other influenced by the rugged beauty of the high desert.”
Czech Your Head – Dark Lager
Brewed at OB Brewery, San Diego, CA
The first of these two collaboration beers, Czech Your Head, is a bold and complex Dark Lager inspired by the classic Czech Tmavé Pivo style but with a modern West Coast touch. Brewed at OB Brewery by the collective talents of Zack Brager (California Wild Ales), Jim Millea (OB Brewery), and Ed Heethuis (29 Palms Beer Company), this beer has already made a name for itself—winning the bronze medal in the Dark Lager category at the 2025 San Diego County Fair Craft Brew Competition.
Pouring a deep mahogany color with ruby highlights, Czech Your Head delivers an enticing blend of nutty malt complexity, subtle caramel sweetness, and a smooth roasted backbone. It finishes crisp and clean, thanks to the traditional Czech lagering process.
Inspired by the Beastie Boys' iconic album Check Your Head, this beer embodies the spirit of collaboration and boundary-pushing creativity.
"Dark lagers don’t always get the attention they deserve, and we wanted to create something that truly highlights the depth of this style while making it incredibly drinkable,” said Jim Millea of OB Brewery. “The name is a nod to both our musical influences and the idea of expanding your brewing horizons.”
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Dark mahogany with ruby highlights
- Aroma: Toasted bread, mild chocolate, and hints of caramel
- Flavor: Rich malt depth with notes of roasted nuts and a touch of coffee
- Finish: Crisp, clean, and refreshingly smooth
Czech Your Head is now pouring exclusively at California Wild Ales, OB Brewery, and 29 Palms Beer Company taprooms. Be sure to stop by and taste this award-winning beer while it lasts.
29 to Life – Cali Common
Brewed at 29 Palms Beer Company, 29 Palms, CA
The second half of this collaboration journey took the brewing team eastward into the high desert of 29 Palms, CA, where they crafted 29 to Life, a California Common that beautifully merges rich maltiness with a crisp, refreshing West Coast finish.
Fermented with a lager yeast at ale temperatures, this unique beer showcases a toasty caramel malt profile, balanced by a touch of fruity esters from the hybrid fermentation process. It’s a nod to the classic “Steam Beer” style made famous by California brewers in the 1800s, but with a modern twist.
“We wanted to brew something that pays homage to California’s brewing heritage while also representing the diversity of the state’s beer scene,” said Ed Heethuis of 29 Palms Beer Company. “Brewing in the desert presents different challenges than brewing by the ocean, and this beer is a reflection of both our environments and our collective passion for craft beer.”
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Deep amber with a bright, clear body
- Aroma: Toasted malt, light caramel, and a subtle hint of dried fruit
- Flavor: Balanced malt sweetness with notes of biscuit, toffee, and a crisp, slightly fruity finish
- Finish: Smooth and dry with a lingering malt complexity
29 to Life is currently conditioning and will be available on draft in about a month at California Wild Ales, OB Brewery, and 29 Palms Beer Company taprooms.
A Collaboration That Bridges Ocean & Desert
From the laid-back beachside vibes of San Diego to the rugged, untamed beauty of the high desert, these two collaboration beers represent the heart of California brewing. By bringing together three breweries with unique perspectives and backgrounds, this project is a testament to the power of community, creativity, and craftsmanship in craft beer.
“Collaborations like this remind us why we love brewing,” said Zack Brager. “It’s about pushing boundaries, trying new things, and, most importantly, having fun while making great beer.”
So whether you're sipping a dark, roasty lager by the coast or enjoying a crisp Cali Common under the desert sky, grab a pint, raise a glass, and toast to the spirit of collaboration and the love of craft beer.
Prost! ??
About the Breweries
California Wild Ales
Specializing in unique and adventurous beers inspired by tradition and innovation, California Wild Ales is known for its bold sour ales, IPAs, and experimental brews. Based in San Diego, CA, the brewery is dedicated to creating unforgettable beer experiences for enthusiasts everywhere.
About OB Brewery
Located in the heart of Ocean Beach, OB Brewery is a community-driven brewpub focused on classic and modern styles brewed with quality and passion. With a killer rooftop view and a dedication to local flavors, OB Brewery is a must-visit for beer lovers.
About 29 Palms Beer Company
Nestled in the high desert, 29 Palms Beer Company brings craft beer to Joshua Tree country with a mix of traditional styles, experimental batches, and an appreciation for the rugged California landscape.
For More Information:
Learn More
Stay Informed, Stay Competitive
Unlock the articles, expert interviews, and data reports that power the beer and beyond industry. Join our community and stay ahead with exclusive insights from Brewbound.