Ahead of the Tampa Bay Lightning's Fan Fest on Saturday (not to mention preseason play), Big Storm Brewing Co. announced that it's partnered with the Bolts on a craft beer that observes their 25th anniversary. The light lager, dubbed The Lightning Twenty Five, is made with American cluster hops and German pilsner barley malt.
Former Lightning captain Dave Andreychuk is set to assist Big Storm with brewing The Lightning Twenty Five on Friday morning. Andreychuk — who's adding to the team's celebratory milestole as a franchise by being inducted into the NHL Hall of Fame this year — will work the Clearwater taproom's canning line, plus help with other aspects of the beer-making process.
"It's exciting to play in role in highlighting the Lightning's remarkable 25 years in the National Hockey League," said L.J. Govoni, CFO and co-owner of Big Storm, in a statement. "Big Storm Head Brewer Joel Moore has also done a fantastic job creating a stand-out beer that is worthy of the championship caliber team the Lightning will put on the ice this season."
Expect to see the lager at places like area restaurants and bars, Amalie Arena, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, Total Wine & More and select Publix stores. It's also available on tap today at both Big Storm locations in Pinellas and Pasco. A portion of the beer sales benefits the Lightning Foundation, which supports charities around the region.
