April 27, 2015 at 4:31 p.m.
Hodag Hops and Vines event draws a crowd
Hodag Hops and Vines event draws a crowd
By Kayla Thomason-
"We've had a good, nice turnout and I've been seeing some at-the-door sales go out already, so that's a good indicator," said Dana DeMet, executive director of the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce.
There were over 70 varieties of beer and wine available to taste spanning 30 different breweries from around the state and along the border.
"Each year has continued to grow, we've outgrown two other venues," DeMet said. "I think that attendees really like coming to this because it's at a time of the year when typically we see (unpredictable) weather. We've been told it's a great opportunity for people to come out, enjoy a night out in the Northwoods, try a bunch of different new things, something they haven't tried before, and see a lot of people they might know and meet a few people."
Attendees said Hodag Hops and Vines is a unique opportunity for those who love to try new libations.
"It's tremendous, I think it's a great event, you have a super turnout, thanks for putting it on," said William Symbllik, first-timer.
Jane Grover just moved from Arizona and was thrilled to discover the event.
"I think it's awesome, I wish they had things like this in Arizona," she said.
She sampled a shandy, a blueberry beer and a wine.
"I think it's a good way for the microbreweries to get their product out to people so people can taste and know the next time they go buy a beer 'Oh, I tasted this and I really liked it,'" Grover added.
Hodag Hops and Vines was a success for vendors and volunteers as well.
Sidney Ring was one of three volunteers from Park City Credit Union. She was pouring for New Glarus brewery and was offering three beers: 'Moon Man,' 'Totally Naked' and 'Hopster.'
"I'm told 'Totally Naked' is more of - I've heard - a "real" beer or similar to your standard domestic beers and this 'Hopster' (has a) very distinct flavor," Ring said. "One of the folks that came by could pick out clove - which I thought was very interesting for a beer - and as we read he was correct, there is clove in there."
"This is fun, this is a great event to volunteer at," she added. "I'm actually surprised to see as many people here as there are."
Eric Britton was a first-time vendor, pouring for Wine Beginnings.
"We're doing wine making, home brewing for wine making and beer making, and we're sampling our wines that we've brewed in the last couple years along with some beer that we did earlier this year," Britton said. "I think (Hops and Vines is) great, it's a good time for people to get out and enjoy the end of winter, beginning of spring."
Kayla Breese may be reached at [email protected].
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