Over 30 years ago, a group of hikers decided to go back to their hotel room in Pakistan to drink a few beers after climbing the world's deadliest mountain. Because c'mon... What's better than an ice-cold beer after an adventure like that?? Anyways, that night... Flying Dog was born!
In 1990, George Stranahan opened the doors to Flying Dogs' very first brewery in Woody Creek, Colorado. 16 years later, a new brewery opened in Frederick, Maryland. In 2007, just a year after the Frederick location opened, the company announced that they were closing their brewery in Colorado. They thought it was best to focus all their time, energy, effort, and money on the Maryland brewery. By doing so, they quickly became the largest brewery in the state!
Although it seems like their transition from Colorado to Maryland went smoothly, there were some issues that occurred later down the line... Flying Dog went to Federal court to defend their right to free speech and expression. Why? Well, let's just say that the people at Flying Dog like to embrace their weirdness while looking at craft beer as an art form that's unlike any other. Some consumers were not very pleased by some of the names and art that was displayed on their beer bottles. However, Flying Dog did end up winning their case in court. So cheers to Raging Bitch!
Speaking of art, the creator of all of these unusual yet talented photos is Ralph Steadman. After he created the famous, "Good Beer, No Shit" art, it quickly caught on and became the company's slogan.
I went to the Flying Dog brewery over Labor Day weekend. When you pull up, the first thing you notice is the location The industrial park provides a spacious lot for its guests to use. There is plenty of parking for when they are busy. While walking to the doors, you notice the beautiful outside section that they have to offer their guests.
Christian and I arrived just as they were opening so it wasn't busy at all. When you first walk in, you enter their gift shop which gives you the opportunity to browse before grabbing a beer or two! Their gift shop offered a large variety of products from t-shirts, magnets, and stickers to bottle openers, glasses, and of course, beer! I noticed that everything was reasonably priced as well.
With it not being busy when we first arrived, I was able to notice that the bar was pretty spacious and offered plenty of seating for guests during their busier times. While I was there, I stood at the bar because I like to interact with the bartenders and other employees when I get the opportunity to. The employees all around the brewery were personable, friendly, and engaging which makes the Beersperience more enjoyable.
The day I went to Flying Dog, they had 20 beers on tap! How was I supposed to pick just 1 or 2 beers while I was there?? Ahhh, the answer to that is simple -- GET A FLIGHT! I tend to get flights whenever a brewery offers them. A flight consists of several samples of different beers. This is a great way to test out new beer and find the ones that you really enjoy!
So, anyone who knows me knows that I love pickles... Pickle chips, dill pickles, fried pickles, etc... Well, guess what!! The day I went to the brewery was their release day for their new Dill Pickle Gose. MY LUCKY DAY! So, you already know that was #1 on my flight list. I also sampled The Fear Imperial Pumpkin Ale, Numero Uno Agave Cerveza and Dead Rise Old Bay Summer Ale. There were a few that I ordered that I was unsure of, but overall, the beer selection was good! And obviously, the Dill Pickle Gose ended up being my favorite. The company also coordinates with a food truck parked outside so they offer food that pairs well with their beer.
Overall, my first impression of Flying Dog was great! The atmosphere, employees and beer were awesome!
Here's my first rating:
Atmosphere - ★★★★ - Flying Dog had a great atmosphere. The art on the merchandise, the glasses, the chalkboards were phenomenal. I just wish I was able to experience this brewery during a busier time.
Beer - ★★★★ - I went in thinking I wasn't going to like some of the beers I ordered in my flight. But, I can honestly say that I enjoyed each one. I do wish they offered more sours though.
Employees - ★★★★★ - The employees here are outstanding. They're extremely personable and welcoming. They really engage with their customers and got to know them. I enjoyed my opportunity of getting to interact with employees.
Location - ★★★ - The industrial park itself was spacious and offered plenty of parking, however, there was no scenery or places nearby.
Social Media - ★★★★★ - Flying Dog does a fantastic job with using their social media accounts. They're not just reposting the same pictures/captions on each different platform. They're really engaging with their audience and making them feel a part of a community.
Total: 4.2 STARS!
Cheers!!,
Cassidy
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