An Overview of my Visits

What a Wonderful Semester!!

It's a rare opportunity to link beer tasting and education together - but with freedom to choose whatever topic I desired, I did just that. This course has allowed me vastly enhance my blogging skills, while also expanding my taste for new, local, and very tasty brews! If you are given the opportunity to do a brew tour in Loudoun County - then take it. You won't be disappointed. 

Overview

In order to  give the readers a comprehensive overview of the places I've visited, here are summarized visits (along with the best brews to try for your visit).

Lost Rhino

This rapidly expanding brewery has two distinct locations in Ashburn, VA. Since it opened in 2011, they have made a strong presence in Loudoun County. They recently  began bottling their beers, which are available at local grocery stores (such as wegmans).

They offer several different IPAs and hoppy style beers. My pick - the Oatmeal Pumpkin Ale. Sweet and reminiscent of pumpkin pie, it was close to dessert.

Old Ox Brewery

This is the place to be. Located in Ashburn, the name Old Ox is derived from one of the main roads throughout all of Loudoun County.  Several factors make this place unique, including: games, multiple playrooms, consistently different entertainment, and you can can even join a corn hole league. This atmosphere is surely not to be missed, and the beers are all excellent.

All of the brews served here are spectacular; to choose only one is almost a crime. But, if you're a lite beer fan like I am, your best bet is the Golden Ox. It's a buttery ale with a strong finish. But again, if you prefer the IPAs/Stouts, those are also very good. You'll have to get a flight a decide for yourself.

Crooked Run

This nano brewery is tucked away in downtown Leesburg, VA. If you didn't have the specific location then the bar would be easily overlooked. This place is unique as it does not serve food and it is strictly a brewery. The laid back atmosphere is a local's favorite hangout spot, and you can even bring your dog with you.

Of the beers they currently offer, I prefer the Red Kolsch. This is a lighter beer with a bit of a strong, bitter finish. Of all the beers they've ever had, I prefer the 'You're Cool" cucumber beer (but that is a summer seasonal). That beer is a mint wheat made with 25 lbs of cucumbers. It's almost like drinking water.

Mountain State Brewery

Hands down, my favorite restaurant/brewery of all time. This is not a local brewery in Loudoun County, but it is instead located in Deep Creek, MD.  The mountain range backdrop, brick ovens, and wooden decor make this cozy little establishment feel like it right inside a grand sized log cabin.

Of the four beers on tap, I would have the say the Cold Trail Ale was (not by far) the best. Each of their beers are refreshing; even the Stout and IPA. The pizza is beyond delicious (imagine the best pizza you've had, minus the excess grease). I cannot say enough good things about this place. If you ever find yourself in Deep Creek (or Thomas WVA/ Morgantown WVA), do yourself a favor and stop in to this slice of paradise.

That's All - Folks...

That's all for my brewery adventures (for this blog, not in general). I've had a lot of fun visiting breweries, tasting good beers, and making new memories. Thanks for joining me along the way!