Old Ox Brewery

Old Ox - a must visit in Ashburn, VA!!!

I was blown away by this brewery experience for a multitude of reasons, but the atmosphere is exactly how a brewery be.

Upon entering the brewery I was asked if I wanted to join in on their weekly corn hole tournament (this is a Wednesday, mind you). Unfortunately, I showed up at 8:30, they closed at 9, and work (beer tastings) had to be accomplished. But, I do foresee an upcoming Wednesday evening here in my near future.

Daily Entertainment

They not only do corn hole Wednesdays, but tap take over Thursdays and live music Friday and Saturday evenings. You can even bring your dog! The relaxed environment and the laid back patrons make this place unique from all of the other bars/breweries I've visited in this area. Below is their weekly activity schedule (I apologize the picture quality is not superb).

The Facility

Old Ox offers scheduled brewery tours over the weekend. However, even if you miss a tour the brewery vats, yeast, and instructions are in plain sight during operational hours. I conducted my own tour

  Beer Tour (photos in order):

1. Maltz used for the beers
2. The brewing schedule
3. The vats where the magic happens (beer is created)

Drum Roll Please....The Beers!!

Wow. Old OX has dark IPAs, heavy ales, Stouts, and Porters...And I liked them all!!! With the exception of their Bourbon Stout (too strong for me) I would order any of there beers again. This was a highly successful visit.  Here is the tasting list:

 They actually had 8 beers total, as the Black Ox was also available on nitro (which essentially makes the beer creamier). I have ranked the beers in order below:

1. Golden OX - I took home a growler of this sweet brew. It probably was their 'litest' beer as a golden ale. It has a buttery taste, and as a pilsner, I'm not surprised it was my favorite
2. Alpha Ox - A surprisingly strong but not bitter IPA. Smooth and refreshing.
3. Black Ox - I didn't notice the difference between the one on  nitro vs. the regular. This is a chocolate porter and although a darker beer it is surprisingly sweet. 
4. Hoppy Place IPA - The name says it all, But for being a bitter beer it was nicely balanced with citris. 
5. Betty- A sweet brown ale that also tastes like caramel/chocolate. Too sweet to be my favorite - but I didn't dislike it.
6. Big Tasty- This is a strong overpowering stout. It finishes smooth, although the first sip is deadly
7. Bourbon Barrel Black Ox- I didn't like this at all. Too strong and heavy .

The Merchandise

I cut my visit close by only giving myself 30 minutes to sample the brews, so I didn't get a chance to purchase any of their apparel. However, I plan on frequenting this establishment and I will buy something during my next visit. I personally love the shirt with the beer holder and mile marker for the bike trail...

If you ever happen to pass through Loudoun County then you must stop in off Smith Switch Road in Ashburn, VA and grab a beer at Old Ox brewery. This is a place you will not want to miss!