In 1995, the roof of the Rams Head Tavern in Annapolis, MD was removed and a brewhouse lowered in, handcrafting fine ales and lagers under the name of Fordham Brewing. Named in honor of Benjamin Fordham, who was given a charter in 1703 by Queen Anne to establish a brewery in the heart of the busy port city. It didn’t take long for the new brewery to rekindle the city’s old tradition into a passionate following for its artisanal beers among the locals . As Fordham’s reputation spread throughout the Chesapeake region, the brewery made the decision to relocate to Dover, Delaware in 2003, where they had room to expand, and your favorite Beer of the Month Club came to know them.
In what has become known as the Craft Beer Revolution, Old Dominion Brewing Co. established a brewpub in Ashburn, VA, which quickly became a production brewery — named one of the Top 50 breweries in the U.S. Others inspired by Old Dominion’s started successful breweries of their own, all working hard to keep the East Coast stocked.
Based on shared values and a common philosophy, Fordham & Dominion joined forces in 2007 and consolidated operations in 2009. Beer lovers from near and far stop by, get to know and love the people and their handcrafted beer (and soda). The roots run deep throughout the Mid-Atlantic region as they remain dedicated to their craft. They believe in two things: the beers they make and the people who drink them!
Rosie Parks Oyster Stout actually has Chesapeake Bay oyster shells added to the kettle boil! The legendary skipjack Rosie Parks once dredged for oysters on the Bay. Formerly the fastest of the fleet and a beauty to behold, she underwent reconstruction and was re-launched on November 2, 2013. This brew honors her. Serve a pint at 45-50°F.
Copperhead Ale, Fordham’s flagship brew, is an American Amber Ale. Caramelized malts give this beer its sweet flavor and signature copper hue. Bravo hops contribute a slight bitterness to the finish.
STOUT — Fordham’s Rosie Parks Oyster Stout — A close cousin to the Porter, most Stouts have a roasted coffeelike flavor not found in Porters. Fordham’s version is unique, with oyster shells added to the boil. This is the brew most recommended by doctors for nursing mothers — really! With its subtle sweetness, it’s a ringer for pairing with French Vanilla ice cream or anything chocolate. (Yes, it’s top fermented.) AMERICAN AMBER ALE — Fordham’s Copperhead Ale — This is an amber-colored,top-fermented ale with perfect balance between earthy, mild bitterness and caramelized malts. This Amber can be paired with the best cuts of pork, bacon or ham, Gouda cheese and pear fritters. Serve in pint glasses at 45 to 50° F.
