The Egyptians did drink something like beer, although I've never heard anybody claim they invented it. The drink has been around for thousands of years before the EB period, with forms invented independently in places as far apart as Central and North America to Japan, as well as all over Europe. And it's been associated with northern Europe by Romans and other Mediterranean types (despite them having their own forms of the drink) for over two thousands years, not just today. Just ask Pliny the Elder (writing in the 70s B.C.).

At any rate, Harkilaz has become a "Paralytic" drunk on something. Beer, wine (from grapes or other fruit or honey), fermented cider. Whatever his poison it's made him quite worthless as a general.