Noah, Stefan Michel from Mahrs Brau, Alexi and Tony. All photos by Heather Fritz.
The Festival – which took place on the 23rd and 24th of June at Mechanics Hall in Worcester, MA – brought together over sixty of the most well respected and highly sought after artisanal breweries and cider makers from around the world. We were both honored and humbled in our experience sharing Kentucky Common, Bourbon Barrel Aged Kentucky Common, Morning Wood, and Schmetterling Gose with all the attendees and brewers.
The venue was the historic Mechanics Hall in the heart of Worcester. Originally built in 1857 and restored in 1977 the venue was an ideal setting for the gathering. Tastings were broken up into two four hour sessions on Day 1 and one five hour session on Day 2.
Woody Wilson and Mr. Dix looked on while we poured Morning Wood throughout The Festival.
The Local Option Bierwerker booth was located in the main hall (pictured above) next to Mikkeller (Denmark) and Haandbryggeriet (Norway). The volunteers at The Festival did a great job of assisting in setup for all the breweries and provided great support throughout the entire weekend.
Noah signing his first autograph
Sebastian from Freigeist in Köln enjoying some Bourbon Barrel Aged Kentucky Common
Kjetil and Tore from Nøgne-Ø stopped by to talk shop with Noah in between sessions
Tony, Noah and Alexi traveled to Worcester for the event. Having three of us present enabled us to take turns pouring at our booth while tasting as many beers as possible. We enjoyed our conversations with brewers and attendees from around the world both during and in between sessions.
Noah with Menno Olivier from De Molen; Tyler and Lori from Louisville Beer Store and Holy Grale
Urbaine Coutteau from De Struise, Tony and Noah discussing which Metallica songs will be played when brewing together again.
Our Nordic neighbors from Haandbryggeriet brought along many beers, including the Kreklingøl which will be available on draft at The Great Taste Of The Local Option 2012 Aug 10th.
Our kegs on Day 1 before Session 1
Our very depleted kegs after Session 3.
In short we had a wonderful time at The Festival and look forward to participating again in the future! Big thanks to Twelve Percent Imports, Shelton Brothers, and all the volunteers. More photos can be found on our Facebook Page.
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