Between Portland and McMinville lies a few wineries. Probably enough to last even the most ardent wine drinker for months. One small town en route, Dundee, is filled to the brim in its few short blocks. But this drive, I noticed that a brewery had sprouted up roadside as well.
Going by the name of Deception Brewing, it is a cozy little spot with parking out back. Two TV’s dominate the room which is plain and simple with a windowed view to one of the brewing tanks.
The tap list had a few winter warmer stragglers since it was still wintry outside. I always have to remember the weather dictates what gets brewed and seeing a spiced holiday ale in LA in February would cause concern but shouldn’t in the wilds of western Oregon.
I went straight to a taster tray to see how the beers fared. The Apricot Wheat was quite pleasant. Both the grain and fruit were equal partners and it had a nice little fizz to it. I also enjoyed the Red Hills Pale, it too had a lovely balance and bitter zing to it. The Menage a Hop felt a bit muddy to me. One of those blends of hops where nothing really shines and all it is about is IBU’s. I also had their 80 Shilling Scottish Ale which was well done too.
The other standout was the Rose Hip Saison which was another tag-team that worked as the Belgian influence didn’t overwhelm the rose hips and vice versa.
Not all out-of-the-blue stops work as well as this little brewery. I felt lucky that this one surpassed my unknown expectations.