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.

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.

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.

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.

Cheers!

Warren