Brew at the Zoo, Louisville, KY

jefrey3 · Post by **jefrey3** » Sun Aug 24, 2008 12:15 pm

The festival included beer, wine & bourbon this year. Only 6 breweries were there, Cumberland & BBC from Louisville, Alltech from Lexington, Upland, New Albanian & Turoni's from Indiana. Schafly & Rogue were on tap through their distributors. Flying Dog, Dogfish Head, & many more were served from bottles. Tish from World Class was there.

There was a tent of wines, probably 10 -12 stations, but I don't think any actual wineries were there. The Liquor Outlet had signs everywhere in the wine tent so I think they must have supplied all of the wines.

One station of bourbon. It wasn't ready when I walked around before it started & I had to drive home so I stayed away. I know they had Makers Mark, but not sure what else. Judi can't promote SWIRCA Fest as unique next year.

3 coffee companies and 25 - 30 food booths. I'm not sure of the pre-event ticket price, but it was $50.00 at the door. All food & drink is included in the ticket price. They probably had 2500 to 3000 attendees.

They also had the casino gambling again this year. Don't know how they get by with it because they seem to be using cash.

Festival was from 4:00 to 9:00. I was out of beer by 7:00(4 kegs, Hefeweizen 1st to go, Honey Blonde 2nd, Blacklight 3rd & Moose 4th). I packed up & was almost home by the time it officially ended.

After I unloaded, I stayed for a beer or 3. While sitting at the bar someone came in and said they announced at a roller derby game there was an after game party at Turoni's. It was just getting started when I left.

Chris Alvey · Post by **Chris Alvey** » Mon Aug 25, 2008 7:33 am

Sounds like a long day ... wise choice staying away from the Bourbon. Too much whiskey plus a zoo = ??notgood??

That price sounded a bit steep for what was available. Was the food free?

Sounds like your beer went over quite well.

Jack Handy · Post by **Jack Handy** » Mon Sep 01, 2008 5:32 pm

We had a nice time...was my first trip but my friends 3rd. They sold out of tickets @ 1550 so there was a nice crowd.

I felt there was a good selection of beers and food. They did start running out of the more popular beers about an 2 hours before the end of the event but this just forced you to stray from your comfort zone. I especially enjoyed the selection of dark beers.

I also enjoyed the variety of food that was available to sample. We definatly had plenty to drink and just as much to eat. I do think we will go back again next year. I first thought the price was a little steep but after attending I felt it was fair and went for a good cause.