Not sure where you’re divining all the negativity in that last post, especially when I haven’t had a chance to even way in on this year’s event. This year’s event was a strong (and improved) showing. It was a smart event, very focused and not trying to overachieve in any respect. I’ll have some thoughts on the event and Metro DC’s beer scene (as a bit of a FYI – I’ve been to Rustico several times, including Sunday, and have written pretty extensively about Old Dominion and other locations outside the District, my criticisms in the past have related to the District itself) in a few days as I’ve just returned home. And while the Sexual Chocolate was solid, you’re off-base on the Hoppyum…

Best,

Andy

So, was it too ritzy for you? Looked like a bunch of guys in khakis and button-downs, and a bunch of women in sundresses to me . . . just a good relaxed time with excellent beer. The food rocked, too — oyster bar? Cheese bar? YES.

OK, so the guy working the Allagash booth in the scarlet suit was a little formal.

My winner: Foothills Brewery out of Winston-Salem — the Hoppyums (sp?) IPA and the Sexual Chocolate stout.

My crew of 10 thought it was a GREAT event, and we’ll be back next year . . . if you took a snobby vibe from this event, you’ve got a weird definition of snobby.

Incidentally, the DC beer scene’s not bad. Try Rustico. Try Magnolias at the Mill. Try Tap & Vine.

Oh, that would involve leaving the District, wouldn’t it?

Sheesh.