Ruddy Duck Brewery & Grill

I figured I'd do something novel and review a brew pub while sitting at the bar.

I'm here at the Ruddy Duck Brewery and Grill in Solomans, MD. It's a very nice place with a friendly atmosphere and, of course, some damned fine beer.

Beer-wise (since that's the purpose of this blog) they brew a variety of beer, but do not specialize in any particular style. My two personal favorites are their IPA and the Porter.

The IPA is pretty unique in that they use Cascades hops to produce a strong citrus flavor and aroma, but without the excessive bitterness that's common with many hop-bomb IPAs. As such, even normally hop-adverse beer drinkers (like Sparks Girl) can enjoy this beer. I've also found that it is better when you let it warm up a bit. The warmth wakes up the flavors and aromas making it even better.

The Porter is quite good too. Some vanilla and chocolate flavors and very smooth. Not sure I can say much more about it, but it's good.

They usually have at least one Belgian style on tap. Currently they have a Tripple, and on my previous visit they had a Dubbel. From my sampling they're both fine examples of their styles, but I've never been able to teach myself to appreciate the Belgian beer. However, Sparks Girl loves them.

In addition, they have a Blond Ale, a Pale Ale, and a Wheat Beer. All of them are also quite tasty but I've never had more than a sample because the IPA and Porter are just so damned good.

They will give you a set of samplers of their beer if you request it. So, you should sample them all yourself and see what you like.

Now, it isn't just the beer that makes this fun, but the atmosphere. It's a very friendly place and the entire staff is excellent. If you're ever here though, you need to ask if Carlos is in. He's one of the owners and, best I can tell, is the brains and passion behind the operation around here. My first visit, I asked if I could get a tour of the brewery, and Carlos came to the table and then gave me a guided tour of the whole operation. It was a lot of fun and I've no doubt that he'd give a tour to anyone who asked. Of course, I don't mean to belittle the other co-owner Michael, but I've only met him once.

Oh, and last but not least, the food here is excellent as well. They have a lot of Argentinean dishes since Carlos is Argentine. I can't really recommend any one item, but everything I've had was really tasty.