The Great Taste of the Midwest

Only a good friend would extend an invite to an event that features 5 hours of beer tasting bliss from over 100 craft breweries pouring more than 500 specialty brews. Such an invite came my way this past Spring when tickets for the Great Taste of the Midwest in Madison, WI went on sale. Although the event sold out in less than a day, this friend had the connection we needed. $30 and several months later I walked into the Capital City's Olin Park to begin testing my abilities as an amateur connoiseur with three fellow beer fanatics.

Upon entering the grounds you are greeted with a smile and an official glass, which serves as your sud holding vessel for the day. Next, you drink. One after another: Red Ale, Raspberry Ale, Extra Pale Ale, Brown Ale, Lagers, Porters, Cherry Stout, Chocolate Stout, Oatmeal Stout, Pumpkin and Smoke Ale, limited edition cask brews and many more. Between each drink a quick rinse at the water trough and a piece of bread cleansed both our glasses and pallets . When inhibriation clearly set in, food stands with fairly priced sandwiches, cheeses and meats saved the day.

The beer of the day for me was the New Glaurus Red Ale. I'm partial to a fine red as is, and this Wisconsin staple didn't disappoint with it's rendition. It's no surprise that the craft brewery won the 2006 Mid-Size Brewing Company and Mid-Size Brewing Company Brewer of the Year awards at the Great American Beer Festival. That event will be the next journey on this beer loving adventure called life.

Checkout more on the Great Taste of the Midwest at http://mhtg.org/

Or view the details for the Great American Beer Festival at http://www.beertown.org/events/gabf/index.htm