Since the end of Prohibition it has been up to individual states to make laws regulating the production, distribution and sale of alcoholic beverages. As a result there are different laws in every state, and most of the sales go through large distributors that act as middle men between the breweries and bars/beer stores. I could write an extended post about the consequences of this system, especially when it comes to craft beer, but I’ll spare you that for the moment. Many craft beer enthusiasts clamor for popular out of state beers to expand distribution without realizing the work it takes. There is also risk in the brewery growing too quickly and potentially impacting quality. Two Roads Brewery took its time building a strong following in their home state of Connecticut and recently began to distribute their line of beers in Mass. One of Two Roads flagship beers is Workers Comp, a saison brewed with barley, wheat, oats and rye and fermented with a distinct Belgian style ale yeast. All of Two Roads beers are available on draft and in 12 oz bottles, in CT, RI, NY and now MA.
Two Roads Workers Comp Saison pours a clear deep gold with a mild white head. The smell is all Belgian yeast, lots of fruity esters and just a touch of must. The taste starts with the yeast as well, bubblegum, banana, pepper, tropical fruit and apple. There is a solid maltiness contributing biscuits, crackers and barley. The wheat and rye add a touch of additional spice. There isn’t much in the way of hops, but the yeast helps balance the flavor and there is enough bittering hops to keep the beer from being sweet. Two Roads Workers Comp is light bodied and easy to drink. At 4.8% ABV it’s on the light side for the style. The finish is dry, with a touch of malt and fruit flavor lingering on the tongue. This is a solid saison and I look forward to trying some of Two Roads other offerings in the near future. Hoppy Boston score: 4.0/5
Hoppy Boston 
