Port City Brewing Company in Alexandria will be tapping kegs of its limited edition Derecho Common beer today at 3 p.m.

The brew is actually the result of derecho-caused accident. When the massive storm hit in July, Port City lost power and feared that it would lose 13,000 gallons of beer. It turned out that five of its six tanks were just fine. But the sixth fermented at a higher temperature than intended. Port City took inspiration from a “steam beer” style developed in San Francisco that brews at higher temperatures, and decided to turn the 60-barrel batch into Derecho Common.

Founder Bill Butcher describes the beer as crisp with a creamier texture than the traditional lager they’d initially set out to brew. It’s also got some green apple and lime characteristics with a crisp, hoppy finish.

“We’re joking at the brewery that it’s best enjoyed in the the dark with no air-conditioning,” Butcher says.

You can stop by the brewery anytime from 3-9 p.m. today for a pint or to pick up a growler to go. The Big Cheese food truck will be on hand, as well. Derecho Common will be available at about 50 bars and restaurants around town as soon as next Tuesday. Butcher says they’ll be posting a list of where to find the beer on Facebook early next week. He’s also personally delivering three kegs to Evening Star Cafe in the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria, which will serve the beer during its 15th anniversary barbecue block party from 12 to 5 p.m. tomorrow.

Port City Brewing Company, 3950 Wheeler Ave., Alexandria; (703) 797-2739; portcitybrewing.com

Photo by Greg Powers