Flying Dog beer is made by the Flying Dog Brewery, which is located in Frederick, Maryland. The brewery was founded in 1990 by George Stranahan, an entrepreneur and animal lover, who named the brewery after his beloved dog, a black Labrador Retriever named Flying Dog. Since its inception, Flying Dog Brewery has become known for its unique and innovative craft beers, with a focus on bold flavors and creative artwork.
One of the most distinctive aspects of Flying Dog's brand is the artwork on their labels, which has been created by the renowned British artist and illustrator, Ralph Steadman. Steadman's art is characterized by its bold, chaotic, and sometimes grotesque style, which perfectly complements the edgy and irreverent nature of Flying Dog's beers. Steadman's collaboration with Flying Dog began in 1995, and he has been creating the label art for the brewery ever since.
I had the pleasure of visiting the Flying Dog Brewery a few years ago, and I was impressed by the passion and dedication of the brewers and staff. The brewery itself is housed in a converted warehouse, and it has a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Walking through the facility, I could see the immense amount of care and attention to detail that goes into every batch of beer.
The brewing process at Flying Dog is a combination of art and science. The brewers use only the finest ingredients, including malted barley, hops, yeast, and water, to create their beers. They experiment with different hop varieties and malt profiles to achieve a wide range of flavors and styles. From hop-forward IPAs to rich and malty stouts, Flying Dog offers a beer for every palate.
One beer that I particularly enjoyed during my visit was their flagship beer, the “Raging Bitch.” This Belgian-style IPA is known for its complex flavors and assertive hop character. It has a beautiful golden color and a fluffy white head, with aromas of tropical fruits and spicy Belgian yeast. The taste is a perfect balance of fruity sweetness and hop bitterness, with a dry and refreshing finish. It's a bold and memorable beer that truly represents the spirit of Flying Dog.
In addition to their core lineup of beers, Flying Dog also releases a variety of limited-edition and seasonal brews throughout the year. These beers often push the boundaries of traditional beer styles and showcase the creativity and innovation of the brewery. Whether it's a barrel-aged imperial stout or a hazy New England-style IPA, Flying Dog is constantly pushing the envelope and surprising beer enthusiasts with their offerings.
Flying Dog Brewery is a true pioneer in the craft beer industry. With their commitment to quality, creativity, and artistry, they have earned a dedicated following of beer lovers around the world. The partnership with Ralph Steadman and his iconic label art only adds to their unique and memorable brand. So the next time you crack open a Flying Dog beer, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and passion that went into creating it.