Could there be a more fitting way to celebrate the release of Lizzie’s Famous 81 Whacks than with an ax-throwing event?
Not bloody likely.
Buzzards Bay Brewing is rolling out the seasonal release of its Lizzie’s Famous 81 Whacks IPA this Saturday along with the chance to bury the hatchet -- into targets set up in the field, that is.
It’s only fitting Buzzards Bay Brewing’s Lizzie’s Famous 81 Whacks is its sole red IPA, in honor of the Fall River lady accused of giving her father and stepmother a total of 81 whacks.
Though he’s not sure if it’s the campy name, or the flavorful beer, or both, but Lizzie’s Famous 81 Whacks is also the brewery’s most popular beer, said owner Bill Russell. “It’s a typical IPA with nice fruity esters from the fermentation, but it also has a pleasing bitterness,” he said.
Brewer Harry Smith said the red IPA is made with three different malts and four hops.
The IPA's red hue comes from the roasting process, added Russell.
In addition to brewery offerings such as Golden Flounder, Quacker Stout and Buzzards Bay, they also make several seasonal brews including Horseneck IPA in the summer and Swamp Yankee in the winter.
Offered in the spring for the past several years, this year they decided to combine the Lizzie release with the ax-throwing craze that’s cropping up at bars and agri-tourism. Those who want to try their hand at ax throwing will get a quick lesson from Mass Axes’ “Ax Official” Adam Katz before hurling the hatchet.
“I’m naturally clumsy, so I’m going to make sure there’s an even bigger buffer between me and the crowd when I throw it,” said Russell.
Smith offered his own sage advice to participants: “Beer before axes, no one relaxes; axes before beer, you’re in the clear.”
Lizzie’s Famous 81 Whacks IPA will be available Saturday on draft, in bottles and in growlers. The event will also feature music from Butch McCarthy, and the Fancheezical food truck selling macaroni and cheese, pulled pork, and barbecue.
Ax-throwing participants must be at least 21 years old and sign a waiver.
Buzzards Bay Brewing is located at 98 Horseneck Road, Westport.
Email Linda Murphy at lmurphy@heraldnews.com.