IBCO Conundrum Saison

IBCO

Independent Brewing Company

Bel Air, MD

I met my friend, Art, in Bel Air at the Independent Brewing Company (IBCO). The patio was packed on this warm April evening, so I found a couple of seats at the bar and ordered a Conundrum Saison By the way, according to Merriam-Webster, a conundrum is an intricate problem or (my favorite) a riddle that is answered with a pun. Here’s my conundrum – What did the father say to his son? Say, son, can you get me a beer, preferably a Saison.

IBCO Liquid Pleasure, Belgian Dubbel
IBCO Conundrum Saison

Just like last time at IBCO, there was a real neighborhood feel, with families, dogs, growlers and crowlers being filled. Everyone seems to know everyone, milling around a talking. Even owner/brewer Phil Rhudy was busy in conversation among his patrons most of the evening. Apparently, all the art on the wall is for sale, making IBCO an art gallery. I read that they even have yoga sessions (Bend and Brew) at the brewery.

IBCO bar, turning on the game
IBCO bar, turning on the game

Art joined me and had that evening’s “in demand” beer – Blue Eyed Blond. Beer Advocate calls it an American Blonde, but I thought it tastes more like a Belgian Single or blonde. It is tasty and unfiltered. Despite the name, it packs a bit of a punch at 7% ABV.

IBCO Liquid Pleasure, Belgian Dubbel
IBCO Liquid Pleasure, Belgian Dubbel

My next beer lives up to its name, Liquid Pleasure. It’s a smoky, sweet Belgian Dubbel. This beautiful beer, like most of IBCO’s beers, has reduced gluten. They use an enzyme process to take most of the gluten out of these barley-based beers.

Inside IBCO
Inside IBCO

Cheers!

Warren