In previous episodes I’ve talked about how one of my favorite things about Craft Beer is its capacity to be hyper-local, and something that can connect a community. Few breweries seem to embody that as well as Key Brewing Company based out of Dundalk Maryland. Having grown up in Dundalk it’s always been fun to see that Key Brewing proudly represents the area.
So naturally I was floored when I discovered one of Key Brewing’s seasonal beers, Diamonds & Domes. Let’s talk about this label. Anyone who’s ever driven through Dundalk has undoubtedly seen it’s most distinct, albeit humorous landmark…the Back River Waste Water Treatment plant. So of course, if you’re going to have a Dundalk beer, might as well include a fun Dundalk inside joke on the label. And that’s exactly what Key Brewing have done by putting a picture of those two golden eggs front and center, which I’m sure anyone familiar with the area would get just as much a kick out of as I did
Now let’s get to the actual beer. At a time when it seems like everyone is doing New England style Hazy IPAs, it’s refreshing to see someone do a West Coast inspired IPA like Diamonds & Domes. Clocking in at 6.7% ABV it has the stronger flavor that you’d expect from an IPA, but it’s in no way overpowering. It has a refreshing citrus aroma and that comes through in the flavor of the beer as well. Overall, it’s a really solid IPA that I could see myself drinking regularly, and of course I’m keeping the can on display for sheer comedic value.
Cheers!
Matt Weitzel
100.7 the Bay’s Craft Beer Guy
Email: mweitzel@thebayonline.com
