April 24, 2017 at 4:33 p.m.
Hodag Hops and Vines draws a crowd
Hodag Hops and Vines draws a crowd
By Kayla Thomason-
Guests sampled their libations of choice using commemorative glasses. With 25 breweries and three wineries represented, each offering anywhere from three to six selections, there was a pleasing variety to choose from.
Complementing the drinks were tasty food samples from six area businesses.
"So far the turnout is great," said Lauren Sackett, the chamber's tourism and event coordinator. "I think we were up in pre-sale tickets and then we are still getting a few that will come in and pay at the door. The parking lot is already jam-packed full."
"It's fun for everybody to come and participate," she added. "It's kind of unique. I mean there are beer and wine tastings, but it's separate from everybody else here in Rhinelander," she explained, adding that it's a fun event for the community and it helps local businesses find new drinks to serve at their establishments.
Proceeds from this event will help fund next year's Hops and Vines, and Sackett was appreciative of the community support.
The Denise Sauter Band performed blues and jazz music while Mike Michalak served as the emcee.
Katie Drewitz enjoyed her first year at Hops and Vines.
"It's awesome, I didn't expect there to be nearly as many people and this turnout with a whole bunch of different providers and distributors is really great," she said.
Being a Minocqua resident, she was pleased to see the Minocqua Brewing Company represented. She enjoyed their samples, as well as Point Brewery's Ciderboys Peach County, New Glarus and Bent Paddle. She said it was tough to choose her favorite, but was delighted with the reception at the event.
"Everybody is really warm and welcoming," she said.
Ellie Rumney also enjoyed her first year at the event. She tasted cider and wine, and met up with people she knew.
She loved the Ciderboys and one of the wineries.
"I love that this is in town," Rumney said. "We live about a mile and a half from here so we're able to walk. We don't have to drive home so it's perfect for us."
"It's awesome that this is a local event and bringing everybody together," she added.
Valarie Carpenter has been to Hops and Vines three or four times.
She said she loved the new location.
"I like it better at the Northwoods Banquet Center, there's more room," she said.
Carpenter also liked the variety of breweries and beers available at the event.
"Anyone who's never been here should come and try this," she said. "It's a fun event."
Sponsors of this year's event are CoVantage Credit Union, Park City Credit Union, Peoples State Bank and Ripco Credit Union.
Kayla Breese may be reached at [email protected].
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