Editor’s Note: This weekly column is sponsored by Georgetown Square Wine and Beer (10400 Old Georgetown Road).
“There is an ancient Celtic axiom that says ‘Good People Drink Good Beer.’ Which is true, then as now. Just look around you in any public barroom and you will quickly see: Bad People Drink Bad Beer. Think about it.”
This quote by the late writer Hunter S. Thompson has become the motto of Flying Dog Brewery, which is by far my favorite brewery.
We all should be proud that one of our local breweries has become one of the most exciting and adventurous breweries in the country. With colorful artwork on bottles and cases, their beers pack quality and amazing taste inside. Aside from Flying Dog’s year round beers such as “Raging Bitch” and “Double Dog”, which are very popular, Flying Dog brews some great seasonal beer and an extremely popular line called the “Single Hopped” series. And when you think Flying Dog has reached its limit with the variety of beers they brew in one season, they came out with three great limited beers just in time for St Patrick’s Day: “Lucky SOB,” Barrel-aged “Gonzo” imperial porter, and “Brewhouse Parties” green tea imperial stout!
“Lucky SOB” Irish Red Ale 5.5% a.b.v
Never would I have imagined that a brewery would brew a beer with four-leafed clovers, but Flying Dog did just that. Brewed to cast luck on drinkers on St. Patrick’s Day, this smooth drinking beer is perfect for those looking to have more than just one. It is a true Irish Red Ale with a rich malty and slightly sweet taste on the finish.
Barrel-Aged “Gonzo” Imperial Porter 9.5% a.b.v
A tribute to the late Hunter S. Thompson who popularized “Gonzo” journalism, this Imperial Porter is a great way to remember him. Aged in whiskey oak barrels for 180 days, the result is vanilla notes from the oak and soft whiskey warmth that goes down incredibly smooth and easy for a strong porter.
“Brewhouse Parties” Green Tea Imperial Stout 10% a.b.v
Previously only brewed for tours of the brewery, Flying Dog did us all a favor and released this incredible, adventurous beer. Brewed wth a combination of cold green tea and a rich malt backbone, it is a tasty, complex beer and really smooth for a 10% a.b.v beer. This could be one of my new favorites. But it is very limited and will not last long.
Have a happy and safe St. Patrick’s day. Drink responsibly.
The views and opinions expressed in the column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of BethesdaNow.com.
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