Frederick, MD

MD Brewery Challenge #36

Many say Frederick is the Asheville of Maryland. Just as Asheville, NC is known for its many breweries and fine craft beer, Frederick is making a name for itself in the craft beer world. And with good reason. You are probably familiar with Maryland’s largest brewery, Flying Dog – a terrific Frederick brewery. Also, thousands flock to Carroll Creek Park for the annual Frederick Craft Beer Festival each year. I’ve found another reason to travel to Frederick – Barley and Hops Brewery. 

We decided to take a little side tour to visit a brewery in Frederick on our way to the Shenandoah National Park. Our destination was Olde Mother Brewing. When we pulled into the small parking lot, we discovered they were closed for a wedding. One of the brewers/owners was getting married. Bad timing on our part. Congratulations to the lucky couple!

Adjusting our plans, we headed to Barley and Hops. This little brew pub was quite a find. Walking in, you are met with a small brewery on your left. Ahead of you is a dining room with high wooden booths and tables. Everything is well-decorated with beer related themes.

When we sat down, our very attentive server, Alli, wrote her name on the paper tablecloth. I ordered the veal schnitzel with spaetzle and a flight.

The food was very good and there was plenty of it. I enjoyed it for several meals. I especially enjoyed the carrot sweetened spaetzle, a rare German treat.

The beers were exceptional. Below are my notes:

• Francis Scott Key IPA: Piney, bitter hops with a hint of malt sweetness. Goes down easily.
• Bauhaus Hefeweizen: Nice banana/bubblegum nose. Wheaty sweet hef.
• Pruneaux Lite Saison: Sweet saison with a tinge of farmhouse funk. Easy drinking, enjoyable beer.
• Seductress Summer Stout: Raspberry & chocolate stout. Nice!

Overall, I found our experience at Barley and Hops an awesome experience.  With good food, excellent beer and exceptional service, I’ll definitely come back again.

Cheers!

Warren