Brewmasters from all over the country flocked to the fabulous Mohegan Sun Casino for the first annual Brewfest. The Brewfest is a two-day festival that showcases only the very best in beers and ales. For guests enjoyed four full hours of access to an unlimited supply of beers. With complimentary tasting glass in hand, participants wandered the many stalls in search of the next great beverage. The Mohegan Sun Convention Center filled up quickly as wave after wave of beer lovers vied for a good line position to taste the various wares. With so many brews to choose from it would be impossible to list them all; but there were a few standouts that earned a permanent place in our hearts and tastebuds.
Crispin Cider: Cider is more or less the non-beer drinker’s beer. This isn’t your grandmas sparkling apple cider this stuff has a kick that is undeniable. We samples 2 of their best versions. The honey crisp is a slightly sweet option smoothed out with rich organic honey. For a silkier mouth feel try “The Saint”, which features the flavor of organic maple syrup. To find out where to get yours visit www.crispincider.com
Goose Island Chicago Craft Beer: Chicago is probably best known for giving us delicious deep dish pizza, but that was merely a companion to its rich history of brews. Goose Island brought with them a new standard in beer drinking with its sophisticated vintage collection. We sampled the spicy Matilda, an aromatic masterpiece. After that we tried the 312 Urban Wheat Ale, this light fruity flavored beverage is best paired with fish and salad. For more information on their many other flavors please visit www.gooseisland.com
Shock Top: The mohawk on the bottle is only one reason we love this spunky brew. Their divine Pumpkin Wheat Ale is like thanksgiving in a glass. The flavors of nutmeg cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice mix beautifully with their trademark Belgian wheat ale. To see what else these guys are cooking up visit www.shocktop.com
The Hartford Better Beer Company: As local brews go the Praying Mantis is one of the most unique we have found thus far. The rich black cherry color and smooth chocolate taste is a dream come true. Unfortunately its only available in CT … for now. In the meantime a roadtrip to CT isn’t the worst idea ever, visit www.hartfordbetterbeer.com to find out where you can get yours.
Beaver Beer: Another local favorite, fledgling brewery Beaver Beer brought its 3 signature flavors to the event. Billed as blonde, Brewnette and Big Red their brews offer smooth distinct flavors that you will only find in CT bars and a few select retailers For more info please visit www.beaverbeer.com
In addition to the many brews guests were invited to play ping pong, foosball and sample some bar favorites from local eateries.
A fun night to say the least it is but one of the many events taking place at Mohegan Sun. Events including comedy acts, concerts and performances to see what’s coming up next visit www.mohegansun.com
