If you haven’t noticed breweries are propping up everywhere these days. I myself prefer going to wineries but I’ve had the opportunity during this past year to try out a few breweries and I can say they’re very lively and fun to explore.

 Just recently I decided to take hubby to his favorite beer establishment, Guinness.  This Irish icon can now also be found in my hometown state of Maryland.  Yes, they came across the pond three years ago and opened a brewery that not only brews their famous classic dark stout but also experimental beers.  

 I never really liked  Guinness or any dark beer but their New Baltimore Blonde was amazing. I think I have been converted. I also thought I would not enjoy is outing, so I carried my scrappyangel project bag with my knitting in case I got bored.

Since it was hubby’s birthday present I made a special beer mask for him. I just wish I could find some Guinness fabric.

When you enter the first thing you notice is the logo harp.  I won’t spoil it and tell you its significance. However, it’s a very fascinating story. 

There’s also a very large outdoor eating area.  Another nice place to knit. I can imagine if you go in the spring, summer or even the fall it’s pretty great being out there listening to music with a beer. I’ll tell you more about the food later. 

We decided to take the hour and a half tour where we learned a lot about the company, it’s location and how they brew the beer. No spoilers here. I  thought this would be another knit getaway but, actually it was very fascinating and I learned a lot.  Hubby was just thrilled so if you have a beer enthusiast they’re going to really think it is worth the trip.

 After the tour we also booked the tasting room package for a few more dollars.  I didn’t want to taste so we just got it for hubby. He did give me a sip when he thought I would like the brew. 

In the Tasting Room and on site is where you can sample some of the new experimental beers you won’t find on the market

They even have a chocolate mint beer which I of course purchased at the end of the day. I think this is going to pair very well with a chocolate cake. 

We decided to stay and have lunch at the establishment and taste some more beer. At first I wasn’t that hungry so we only ordered the Old Bay seasoned wings and the beer bread (delicious). But as I watch the waiters bring out the other foods like the hamburgers with fries, half a chicken and Shrimp Cobb Salad I wish I had ordered something different. The food looks amazing and fellow diners agreed that it tasted great too.  If you go with several people everyone should order something different and share.

I just couldn’t pass up the chocolate mousse cake. I ate part of it there and the rest came home with me to pair with my chocolate mint beer.

Do not leave without exploring the gift shop. They have everything and the prices are reasonable. Some things were a little expensive but most of all you’ll be able to find anyone who enjoys beer a rare beer or a unique gift.

Open Gatev Guinness Brewery is definitely a place you want to explore. Here you can learn about beers, enjoy some wonderful food and get to taste experimental brews that are not even on the market yet. It’s also a great place to gather with family, friends and make some memories. So go EXPLORE and LIVE. Just remember to take a designated driver.