To the delight of local IPA-imbibing, stout-swilling beer connoisseurs, the Brewers Association recently recognized a Maryland company in itslisting of the "Top 50 U.S. Craft Brewing Companies"by beer sales volume:Flying Dog Brewery.

Flying Dog leads Maryland's booming craft brewing industry. The State's total number of breweries rose from 25 to 34 between 2011 and 2013, with an estimated economic impact of $455.5 million in 2012, the nationalBrewers Associationreports.

Originally founded in 1990 in Aspen, Colorado, the company is now housed in a state-of-the-art facility in Frederick, Maryland. In Maryland, Flying Dog found access to the latest brewing technology, dramatic growth and a welcoming customer base, thanks in no small part to a certain Old Bay infused ale.

"Since Flying Dog moved operations to Maryland in 2007, sales have increased 600 percent in our core market of the mid-Atlantic. In Maryland alone, Marylanders are drinking more Flying Dog beer than we were selling in 48 states and 23 countries six years ago," said Erin Weston, director of communications at Flying Dog.

Flying Dog has embraced the surrounding community in recent years, offering tours to the public and sponsoring a number of charitable and cultural events. According to Weston, the company anticipates continued growth in Maryland.

The "Top 50" listing includes the"vanguard of the craft industry," Bart Wilson, chief economist at the Brewers Association, said in a statement.

"They are exposing new beer lovers to craft, opening new markets and creating opportunities for the entire category. As they continue to grow, so will the availability of innovative and high-quality beers produced for all to enjoy," he said.