It was in 1987 that Hugh’s Sisson’s successful leadership in lobbying the Maryland Legislature resulted in landmark legislation that legalized brewpubs in MD. His own brewpub, Sisson’s, located until 1994 in the building that now houses Ryleigh’s Oyster Federal Hill, is considered one of the birthplaces of craft beer in Maryland.
 

Now, Sisson’s brewery, Heavy Seas Beer (originally Clipper City Brewing), is in its 20th year and has brewed a new beer, 20 Year Storm, paying homage to the brewery’s first brew, Winter Storm. An Imperial ESB brewed with local Domino brown sugar, English ale yeast, UK Malt, and a blend of American and British hops, 20 Year Storm has been aged in bourbon barrels for approximately 75 days and sports a hefty ABV of 10%.
 

In honor of its 20th year, the brewery is also hosting a variety of events around Baltimore, and beyond, to celebrate the milestone anniversary.

 

Visit the Heavy Seas Alehouse to try the new brew and nosh on some menu item throwbacks (like smoked crawfish cakes) from the days of Sisson’s. Former Sisson’s chef, Bill Aydlett, will be on hand to prepare the food for the night’s celebration.

 

Ryleigh’s Oyster (36 E Cross St.)

Featuring 20 different Heavy Seas beers, including 20 Year Storm, Ryleigh’s will offer pay-as-you-go $1 samples and full pints, as well as unlimited sampling with the purchase of VIP tickets. VIP tickets also include a commemorative pint glass, early entrance, and an entry into a VIP raffle. The raffle is for a chance to win a “cask build” at the Heavy Seas brewery. The raffle winner's cask will be featured in the Heavy Seas Tap Room on a later date. VIP tickets are $20 and can be purchased here.

 

Wednesday, December 9, 3–10 PM

A celebration of not only Heavy Seas, but of Maryland’s craft beer as a whole, notable members of the Maryland craft beer industry, along with Hugh Sisson, will be guest bartending throughout the night. In the spirit of giving back, $2 of every pint sold will be donated to Ocean Research Project, a non-profit organization out of Annapolis, committed to serving the ocean research community and providing data that explores man’s relationship with the planet’s oceans.
 

Additionally throughout 2016, there will be “20 Beers for 20 Years” celebrations in other markets where Heavy Seas beer is available:
 

Richmond, VA – Friday, March 11

Providence, RI – Thursday, May 19

Philadelphia, PA – Thursday, June 2

Cleveland, OH – Friday, October 28 & Saturday, October 29
Washington, DC – Thursday, December 8 (21st Anniversary)

Photo via Heavy Seas Beer