A beer originally brewed to celebrate the Tampa Bay Lightning’s 25th anniversary season has been so popular, Big Storm Brewing Co. has decided to make it available year-round and rebrand it as Bay Beer.
“The Lighting Twenty Five was specifically designed as a beer that would appeal to the masses much like the broad appeal of the Tampa Bay Lightning and their brand of entertainment promoted by the National Hockey League. Consumer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and reinforced our vision of the liquid – an approachable light lager that’s meant to be enjoyed by all, not just the craft beer wonk. When the beer medaled at the Best Florida Beer Championships, we felt this offered further validation to the acceptance of a craft light lager. With this move, we are making Bay Beer one of our core beers,” said Big Storm co-owner L.J. Govoni.
Launched as Lightning Twenty Five last fall, the light lager features classic American cluster hops and German pilsner barley malt. It captured a bronze in the American-Style Lager category at the Best Florida Beer Championships earlier this year and was the only beer of its style subcategory to medal at the event.
“With this rebranding, sports fans and non-sports fans alike can discover what so many Lightning enthusiasts already know—this is the perfect beer to celebrate all the great activities and events our coastal lifestyle has to offer,” Govoni added.
Bay Beer will continue to be available at AMALIE Arena, various Tampa Bay restaurants and bars, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, Total Wine & More, select Publix locations and other outlets.