Winter Beer Festival by the Washington Beer Commission.
Dec 10, 2010 – Hales Palladium – Seattle, WA
35 Breweries with over 70 + different beers available this Beer Geek was in Winter Beer Heaven. What to try first was the big dilemma but then I quickly found out what must I pass on was next. There was no way unless I came to all 3 sessions had a iron liver and wore diapers would I complete the list of must haves. I seriously doubt there was one brewery that did not bring there “A” game to the festival. For that I must apologize to any brewery that I do not mention nor drank.
Arrived a few minutes before the opening and there was a line waiting to get in. I thought I was the only beer geek. Once we were in it was a game of choose and choose wisely. Some of the beers go super fast and are only in one keg. In every corner of Hales Palladium there was a brewer and they all decorated there tables and taps with a Holiday theme. This made it festive and fun.
I had a great time and this is one festival I highly recommend. One truly awesome thing about this festival is they are all about showcasing WA craft beer and not adding others who seem to infiltrate just because they are big and can. (Sorry did I add my own political comment) Some of my favorites that I really enjoyed were and in no particular order.
Harmon Brewing – Olde Dog Breath (Scotch ale)
Iron Horse Brewing – Cozy Sweater (Vanilla Oatmeal Stout)
Naked City – Le Dude Barrel Aged Beer (Impy Stout)
Paradise Creek Brewery – Hopocolypse Black IPA
Diamond Knot Brewing – Industiral Ho Ho Ho (Bourbon aged Belgian Blonde)
Snipes Mountain Brewery – Pumpkin Death
Schooner Exact Brewing – Puget Soundian Dark Ale (Black IPA)
Now I seek these brews at my favorite pub/tavern or bottle shop. Until next year may you all have a great Holiday and winter season. See you all at Belgianfest January 2011.
