Dog Pirate Beer Company is celebrating its second birthday this month. In dog years, that means it’s pretty much old enough to buy a drink.
Situated inside a distillery (how convenient), alongside the Georgetown–Lewes Trail and next-door neighbors with Old World Breads, Dog Pirate’s location can’t be beat.
While relatively new to the coastal beer scene, founder and brewer Greg Christmas has been around the brewing block. You could argue he followed the industry-standard path to brewery ownership: A homebrewing hobby paired with a little burnout from corporate America can go a long way.
After attending a “Brew Beer at Home” seminar during his senior year of college, he was hooked. With help from a homebrewing club, a few good books, and a friendly winery owner, Christmas refined his craft – making the idea of owning a brewery feel more like a real possibility.
About twenty years ago, Christmas took a chance on a job posting and landed a role as plant manager at Dogfish Head. He admits he had to check a map before moving, thinking Delaware was in New England, but he settled in quickly.
After seven and a half years at Dogfish, Christmas decided to take the leap and open his own … distillery? Ten years ago, he opened the doors to Beach Time Distilling. At the time, it was a little easier – and a little more affordable – than launching a craft brewery.
After several years producing award-winning, leisurely refined spirits, the craft beer bug bit again. Christmas decided to open Dog Pirate inside the distillery.
Dog Pirate operates on a 2-barrel system, allowing for a diverse and rotating beer menu. Working in close quarters (did I mention it’s inside a distillery?), Christmas ordered custom fermenters narrow enough to fit through the front door.
Dog Pirate specializes in British and Belgian-style ales. Christmas recalls the first time he tried Chimay Rouge – a Belgian Dubbel – and how it inspired him to brew Belgian ales ever since.
On the menu, be sure to try Devil Dog, an 8.9% Belgian Strong Golden Ale, and Sea Dog Saison, a fresh and fragrant farmhouse ale. While you’re there, grab an Orange Crush or a cocktail too – you’re in a distillery, after all.
