Local Voices
Conntucky Lightnin' Returns on Derby Day
The Stratford-based Two Roads Brewing will release its newest beer, Conntucky Lightnin' — an ale aged in bourbon barrels supplied from Kentucky — the same day as the "Run for the Roses."
The first Saturday in May is traditionally Kentucky Derby day, one of the most anticipated races in all of sport. May 3rd is also the start of a brand new tradition: the release of Two Roads Brewing’s Conntucky Lightnin’, an ale aged in bourbon barrels supplied from Kentucky…a fitting reason to release Conntucky Lightnin’ on the same day as the Run for the Roses.
Brewmaster Phil Markowski was inspired to make a bourbon-esque beer and “conn-cocted” an amber ale made with malted barley and corn grits in the spirit of bourbon whiskey. “We did a sour mash with just enough corn in the mix”. Corn is an essential ingredient in bourbon; In fact, bourbon whiskey must be made with at least 51% corn to be labeled “bourbon”. The brewery sourced barrels from a number of Kentucky distilleries for aging of the beer until the flavor was just right. “Besides the flavor of whiskey, the barrels provide added complexity with notes of vanilla, oak and a faint note of charred wood”, noted Markowski. Conntucky Lightnin’ (8.5% ABV) will take your taste buds the full ten furlongs!
Draft will flow starting at noon on May 3rd in our tasting room. No growlers will be available for purchase due to limited availability, but Two Roads will have mason “jarlitos” branded with the Conntucky Lightnin’ logo as a take-home package (limited supply—144). 750 mL bottles will also be available for take-home purchase.
