Food Spotlight

Cheers to 350!

Grey Sail Brewing releases American Blonde Ale in celebration of Westerly’s anniversary

Posted

The town of Westerly has a storied history. From New England colonialism, the American Revolution, and the Spanish Influenza to the present day, the little town on the edge of the Connecticut border has existed through some trying and glorious times. This year, the town is celebrating this history at its 350th anniversary, and citizens and local businesses alike are pulling out all the stops to partake in the jubilee. A couple of months ago, Grey Sail Brewing announced its partnership with the town to debut Flying Horse Blonde Ale in honor of its anniversary.

In the past, Grey Sail has made other brews to help benefit Westerly and contribute to the Chamber of Commerce. So, when owner Jennifer
Brinton heard about the celebration, creating a beer for the occasion was a no-brainer.

“Alan [my husband] and I not only own a brewery here, but we also live here and our four children are growing up here and attend schools here. We are a tight community...this is our town,” says Jennifer.

Inspiration for the Blonde Ale’s name came from the Watch Hill Flying Horse Carousel. The carousel was believed to be made in the late-1800s by Andrew Christian and Charles Dare Company of New York City, a traveling carnival. After the outfit traipsed through Southern New England, it was abandoned at that very spot in Rhode Island. Now, the whimsical structure stands as a landmark in the community and one of the oldest operating carousels in the United States.

The new commemorative brew is an American blonde ale brewed with 100 percent Cascade hops, yielding a strong citrus fruit flavor and aroma. This beer is also on the lighter Pilsner side, making it a perfect refreshing thirst quencher for the hotter summer months.

All of the proceeds from the sale of the Flying Horse Blonde Ale will go to the Westerly 350 Committee. Flying Horse Blonde Ale can be found at every package store in the area as well as most restaurants in the town of Westerly. 

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here



X