New England Brewfest 2014
Photography by Phillip Sadewicz and narrative by Cody Laplante.
Click on any image for a larger photo.
In reaction to the recent explosion of outstanding craft beers and breweries in New Hampshire, Brian Aldrich and Michael Meredith went on a quest to taste and document 25 different breweries. Their results were published by American Palate in "New Hampshire Beer: Brewing from Sea to Summit" which came out just in time for this year's brewfest.
Some folks even come and enjoy the afternoon in groups, like the KG&B (Keenan's Bar & Grill) Crew from Windham, Maine who have come down to the New England Brewfest for the last 3 years in a caravan of over 20 thirsty beer-tasters!
Notice that even though no outside food or beverages are allowed into the fest, attendees can still wear the ceremonial pretzel necklaces.
Sarah Ouellette assures us that even non beer-drinkers can have a great time at the event as she sips her Woodchuck cider sample and supports her boyfriend, John Kalagher, in his attempt to try brews from every brewer present.
The two came to the event from Madison, ME and although they have gone to several brewfests in Maine, this is the first one that brought them over to New Hampshire.
In addition to all of the beverage vendors, there were also vendors who sold related artisanal foods such as The Beerkery from Tilton, New Hampshire that specializes in pastry and icing recipes made using local beers from the 603 Brewery. Try the jalapeno cheddar pretzel bites on sale now at The Craft Beer Cellar in Nashua.
What convivial imbibing atmosphere would be complete without some live music? The Lincoln/Woodstock chamber of commerce made sure to pack the whole event with local bluegrass, folk, and rock music. The stage was headlined by the award winning Adam Ezra Group, a roots rock group packed with strings and auxiliary percussion.
The Adam Ezra Group will be playing festivals all summer long and host their own annual Salisbury Ramble festival in August to benefit homeless veterans.
As a cheaper and arguably more beautiful alternative to the hotels affiliated with the festival, many participants camp at private campgrounds or in the White Mountain National Forest, home to loads of recreational swimming holes and hiking trails.
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