Is DuClaw killing it lately?

I like a some of their beers better than others. Euforia and Cocoa Fuego are two of my absolute faves but Morgazm and Naked Fish are probably the worst beers I have ever come across.

I do love that they have a pretty accutate scale of maltiness vs hoppiness on their packaging. I have been tricked by other MD breweries who turn typically malty styles into over hopped nightmares.

 

Duclaw's limited releases are much better than their year round beers although Sweet Baby Jesus and Neon Gypsy are ok. But yes their beer can be reasonably priced especially when getting a growler filled.

 

Oh wait, I just remembered - Black Jack was pretty damn good on draught.

Still doesn't fully make up for stinkers like Naked Fish, Serum, and Old Flame...

 

I have been buying more and more of their stuff.
HOW was a revelation that I could by a solid BAged Barleywine (when I cant get BC 123) for 1/3 the price.
Serum is good too. Under $10 for a good DIPA? Yes please!

 

Duclaw entered my market within the past 5 or so months and the few widely distributed beers (all I've had so far) are definitely better than I expected. I'm at a bar right now and the sample of Neon Gypsy IPA I tried earlier would be worthy of a full pint if not for the other things on tap calling my name.
Serum is better than the reviews would indicate.

 

I wouldn't say they're killing it but they sure are making an aggressive push into the market. I went from seeing 0 product to seeing them everywhere in a few months. I've tried 5 or so offerings with pretty men results. Its a good strategy though.

 

Pretty men results? Am I in the wrong forum?

 

Is DuClaw killing it lately?

NO.

Retribution is a great beer, but other than that... drink Colossus to experience everything that is wrong with this brewery.

 

Just another pedestrian Maryland brewer IMO. I usually try each of their new offerings and usually just find their beers ok for each of the styles. I actually like the fact that they keep pumping out new beers vs. repeating or staples. Who wants more average stable beers taking up shelf space, collecting dust and getting stale hops? I don't. Keep experimenting with new releases until you strike gold.

 

Killing it? No. Making decent-to-good beer with the occasional really good beer thrown in the mix? Yes.