Two local favorites are teaming up in a new deal.
Celebrity chef Bryan Voltaggio, the co-owner of VOLT Restaurant in downtown Frederick, and Flying Dog Brewery, also of Frederick, have created a signature beer called "Backyard Ale."
The new ale's label features a portrait of Voltaggio by gonzo artist Ralph Steadman, whose work adorns all the company's products.
The beer is best enjoyed with smoked and barbecued foods, Voltaggio said. It's made with malted barley that's been smoked over a cherry wood fire.
Until early June, it's available exclusively at VOLT Restaurant. On June 3 and 4, it'll premiere in D.C. for SAVOR: An American Craft Beer and Food Experience. That's a food and beer pairing event put on by the Brewers Association at the National Building Museum.
After that, Backyard Ale will be sold at select retailers in Maryland, D.C. and Virginia.
Voltaggio was a finalist on the 2009 season of Bravo's "Top Chef." His brother Michael went on to win the competition.
