Bines and Brews Hopfest 2016
Every year we go to the Bines and Brews Hopfest (now in it's third year) we're reminded why it remains one of our very favorite beer festivals. Set in the small town of Monument's Limbach Park and with only 350 tickets available, this is a great showcase for brewers and their ability to riff on a single hop - Cascade. Of course, it is also a great opportunity for the attendees to enjoy a nice fall day in a park with small lines providing easy access to 17 brewers and one distiller.
Started in 2013 by Rick Squires, owner of The Twisted Bine hop farm, the Bines and Brews hopfest likes to feature newer brewers whenever possible. In fact, with the exception of 2-3 breweries all in attendance have been open right around 3 years or less. Speaking to Rick during the festival, he mentioned that growth is not really a goal. Keeping the festival small and intimate, he said, provides brewers and the public a great chance to interact. He could see perhaps adding a couple additional breweries down the road, but is adamant that he would cap it at no more than 20 participants. Proceeds from the event go to Tri-Lakes Health Advocacy Partnership and the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce.Brewers compete for two awards: People's choice, which is decided by a vote of attendees; and the 'Top Hop' traveling trophy which is awarded to the brewery who best utilizes the Cascade hops provided by Twisted Bine in their beer, as decided by a panel of certified judges. This year's festival saw the addition of a homebrew competition with a 'Hop Ness Monster' trophy provided to the winner.
Winners for the 2016 event were:Top Hop Award : 38 State Brewing, Littleton CO - Cascade SMaSH
People's Choice Award: 300 Days of Shine, Monument CO - Twisted Gin (Cascade hop infused gin with ginger beer)
A great day, with great people and great weather. We'll be back next year, and you should definitely check this out if you can. Be warned, however, that with only 350 tickets to be had, it will very likely sell out. Cheers!
It's not a photo recap without more photos! Here's some additional shots from the day:
