a fortnight of food in Howard County

SWC Employees Enjoy a Happy Hour at Ram's Head Tavern, cc by-nc-sa image via blunck2 on Flickr

If I were Grand Thane of Howard County (which could benefit immensely from having a Grand Thane, mind you), I would christen the uncomfortably-monikered Howard County Restaurant Weeks to the more awesome and precise Howard County Restaurant Fortnight. I'd leave the food the same, though. Grand Thane Cmar needs to get his food and drink on, and during the next two weeks, it shall be done.

Dogfish Head 2011 release schedule

Dogfish Head's 2011 release schedule is posted here. A few notes:

• This year reflects some excellent choices in terms of marketing and availability of their different beer niches. I particularly applaud the inclusion of both the Midas Touch and Palo Santo Marron as seasonal brews with year-round availability - both are unique drinks to Dogfish, being both some of their best beers and staples that define the company in the growing craft beer marketplace. Also, I get better access to two of my favorites, so THERE. Nyah. :P
• The categories they've made to segregate the "intermittent but not seasonal" releases are rather inspired (such as the "Ancient Ales" and "Agreeable IPA's") and hopefully will be something they build on in future years.
• I am confident enough in my beer geekdom to note that I am looking forward with bated breath to the unveiling of Brand X. YES.

Raise your glasses, baby.

gustatory libation ahead for 2011

Hang Loose Cask (02), cc by-nc-sa image from cizauscas on Flickr

The Trigger Agency is once again bringing a host of touring brew and beverage events to the Baltimore area this year. Mark your calendars, baby:

• The Beer, Bourbon, and BBQ Festival will be hitting the Timonium Fairgrounds in Timonium, MD on April 1 and 2.
  

• The Great Grapes! Wine, Art, and Food Festival will be taking place at Oregon Ridge Park in Cockeysville, MD on June 11 and 12.
  

• The Maryland Brewers' Oktoberfest will be happening at the Timonium Fairgrounds in Timonium, MD on October 8.
  

Heavy Seas Brewery has also listed it's excellent roster of events for the upcoming year, all being hosted at the brewery itself:

• The Heavy Seas Oyster and Beer Festival is on February 5.
  

• The Heavy Seas Real Ale and BBQ Fest will be on March 26.
  

• The Heavy Seas Beer and Bacon Fest is scheduled for September 17.
  

• The Heavy Seas Chili and Cheese Fest is on November 12.
  

Let the gustation and libation of 2011 commence!