Flying Dog Brewery
Snake Dog IPA
7.1%
Maryland, USA

Flying Dog was one of the first American breweries I got really obsessed about, in particular their fantastic pale ale, which is wonderfully named Doggie Style. The brewery was founded back in 1990, so it is a relatively “older” brewery compared to many of the new upstart microbreweries. It originally opened in Colorado and after 16 successful years including an award for Doggie Style in 1991 it acquired the Wild Goose brand when they purchased the Frederick Brewing Company located in Frederick, Maryland, and in January 2008 all production was moved to the Maryland facility.

I’m a big fan of the Doggie Style pale ale and can see why it has won several awards. Having heard a lot about the IPA titled Snake Dog it was about time I gave it a go. I mean, Anna Steadman says, “It snakes down the throat like a faithful friend” which is a fantastic testament. Unlike some other IPA’s I’ve tried recently it is no where near as bitter and is actually a very smooth taste. There is a real bitter and zesty aroma from the Snake Dog but when it hits your mouth it is incredibly textured and soothing on your tongue. Very tasty.

It is a very amber colour and there is quite a lot of froth. Despite being 7.1% it tastes like a light pale ale which makes it incredibly easy and a joy to drink. Definitely one of my most favourite IPA’s. Great stuff Flying Dog. Made from speciality malts, American yeast and a mixture of warrior and columbus hops it is a delightful IPA that is far too easy to guzzle. I love the branding behind Flying Dog, with their colourful and wicked designs to the always entertaining beer names. This is one of the best breweries in the world, without a doubt.

If you’ve never tried a Flying Dog beer then go do it immediately.

BITTER: 3
SWEET: 3
DESIGN: 4
OVERALL: 4