Bluejacket & Crooked Flag Revive Kentucky Common Ale

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, February 27th 2026 at 15:51 GMT by WTOP News
      Locales: Kentucky, District of Columbia, UNITED STATES

Beyond the Brew: The Resurgence of Kentucky Common Ale and the Bluejacket-Crooked Flag Collaboration

This week, WTOP spotlights Bluejacket's Common People Kentucky Common Ale, a deceptively simple yet historically rich brew. But this "Beer of the Week" isn't just about a tasty pint; it's indicative of a broader trend - a renewed appreciation for heritage styles, and a clever blending of tradition with modern craft brewing techniques. The collaboration between Bluejacket and Crooked Flag Brewing Company highlights the power of partnerships in pushing the boundaries of this fascinating, and often overlooked, beer style.

Kentucky Common, often simply called "Common" in its native state, is a uniquely American ale tradition originating in the 19th century. Unlike many beer styles imported from Europe, Common Ale arose organically from the needs and resources of Kentucky brewers. Before refrigerated transport and reliable ice production, Kentucky brewers faced a significant challenge: keeping beer cool during the hot summer months. The solution? Brew a beer designed to be consumed quickly, before it spoiled. This necessitated a low-gravity, rapidly fermenting ale, often brewed with corn adjuncts to keep costs down and contribute to a lighter body.

Traditionally, Kentucky Common Ales were brewed with bluegrass-grown corn, a defining characteristic that separated them from other American ales of the era. These beers were typically reddish-brown in color, with a malty sweetness balanced by a subtle tartness derived from lactic acid bacteria - a natural byproduct of the quick fermentation and warm storage conditions. They weren't meant to age; they were brewed for immediate consumption, meant to be a refreshing respite from the Kentucky heat.

For decades, the Kentucky Common style faded into obscurity. However, in recent years, there's been a remarkable revival, fueled by craft brewers eager to rediscover and reinterpret this piece of American brewing history. Brewers like those at Crooked Flag, dedicated to preserving and promoting Kentucky's brewing heritage, have been instrumental in this resurgence.

Bluejacket's Common People, born from a collaboration with Crooked Flag, beautifully encapsulates this revival. While adhering to the historical foundations of the style - malt-forward character and a crisp, clean finish - Bluejacket hasn't simply recreated a historical artifact. The brewery's expertise, combined with Crooked Flag's deep understanding of the style, has resulted in a beer that's both authentic and approachable for modern palates. The added "subtle tartness," as WTOP notes, is a particularly inspired touch. It's likely achieved through carefully controlled souring techniques, rather than relying solely on the spontaneous fermentation of traditional methods, allowing for greater consistency and complexity.

The beer's notes of caramel and toasted bread speak to the quality of the malt used, creating a rich, inviting aroma and flavor. The 5.5% ABV is consistent with historical examples, making it a sessionable and enjoyable beer for a range of occasions.

This pairing of Bluejacket, known for their innovative and diverse beer offerings at their Cannonball & Hoppy Sea locations, and Crooked Flag, staunch defenders of Kentucky brewing tradition, speaks volumes about the current state of the craft beer industry. It's no longer simply about replication; it's about respectful innovation. It's about brewers learning from the past to create something new and exciting. It's about recognizing the unique stories embedded within different beer styles and sharing them with a wider audience.

The timing of this release - late winter - is also significant. As we transition from the darker, heavier stouts and porters of winter to the lighter, brighter beers of spring, Common People offers a perfect bridge. Its malty richness still provides a comforting warmth, but the subtle tartness hints at the refreshing flavors to come. It's a beer that feels both familiar and new, a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-executed heritage style. For those interested in learning more about Kentucky Common Ales, exploring Crooked Flag's range of beers is a fantastic starting point, as they consistently champion this historically significant style. Ultimately, Bluejacket's Common People isn't just a "Beer of the Week"; it's a compelling example of how craft brewing can honor the past while forging a path toward a more flavorful future.