Inaugural Bines and Brews Hopfest in Monument

Rick Squires, owner of The Twisted Bine organic hop farm had a great idea: provide fresh hops to a number of breweries and hold a festival featuring beer made utilizing the hops from his farm.  One festival to showcase both the brewers and his hops.  A win-win situation by all accounts.This past weekend marked the inaugural Bines and Brews Hopfest in Monument, CO.  It was a great festival with each brewer in attendance pouring a fresh hopped ale, as well as at least one other beer from their stable.  Some brewers like Keith from Nano 108 went so far as to fresh hop more than one beer. There were definitely some excellent brews being poured, and I do not envy the judges decisions, as I am sure it was difficult to pick a clear winner.  However, the judging was not simply for the fresh hopped ales; there was also a people's choice competition where attendees could vote for their favorite brewer at the event. Overall, it was a fun format for a beer fest!Best Fresh Hopped Beer went to Pikes Peak Brewing for their 'America the Pale, Fresh Hop edition'.People's choice went to Nano108, who was pouring 6 different beers.Here are a few more photos from the event.  I certainly look forward to next year's festival being bigger and better!