Jester King Zwanze Day 2018

Supposedly no tickets this year and pours will be first come first serve.

Some are thinking multiple stations pouring from a pitcher since I believe they only get one keg, but no idea.

 

@Spaten454 We're experimenting with an open event / first come, first served setup for Zwanze Day this year. There won't be any limits aside from two glass pours per person at one time. We'll have 5 different Cantillon beers dispersed throughout the property. That's it as far as details for now.

 

This ought to be good.

 

I know where I’m not going this year.

 

Line will be down to 290.

 

If they had a membersh... ah never mind.

 

American Solera or Avenue Pub for me. Avenue is just really well run for such a small venue.

 

@jesterkingbeer what does this mean for the usual bottle share?

 

Flying down from KC with two friends. We’re staying next to JK at The Tipping T Inn. As a veteran of Zwanze, but a first time traveler to Jester King, any advice to make for a best possible experience?

 

Welcome to Texas and enjoy your stay. As JK posted, they are trying a new, first come first served strategy. I would keep an eye out for a very very very early line. Possible bottle share.

 

Tipping T = pro move

Not really sure what to expect with the new first come first served format. Could be smooth sailing, or could be a complete shit show.

Personally, if I were in KC, I would try to get tickets to the Side Project Zwanze Day event.

 

I'm going to push back against the prevailing notion here that it will be a mob scene. I'm happy to eat my words if wrong of course. Last year, I felt that Zwanze lacked its usual excitement. Only approximately 2/3 of the lottery winners even showed up. It was kind of slow and we had Cantillon left over when it was finished. I believe that beer geeks' collective excitement isn't as focused on wild ales and Lambic, but has partially moved on to IPAs and imperial stouts. Do I think we'll run out of Cantillon this year? Yes. Do I think it will be utterly crazy? I'd be surprised honestly. Just my personal opinion. -- Jeff

 

This aligns with my inclination as well. Of the Zwanze that I’ve attended in year’s past, two were first come first served (KC in 2012, and Holy Grale in 2015). Coincidentally these were my two favorite to date. Admittedly 2012 pre-dated some of the hype machine, but 2015 definitely did not. Holy Grale did an especially good job of having several areas of interest with quality beer options at each. They did stick to a max capacity, so as to keep it fun and relaxed for everyone. While the beers are admittedly exceptional at every Zwanze, it’s the people and the vibe of the event that make this a tradition that is not to be missed. My desire for a relaxed and enjoyable experience is why I shy away from some of the other locations. I am optimistic that Jeff’s sense of the event is spot on. Looking forward to sharing some beers, and making a few new friends.

Cheers!

 

Anyone attend and if so, how was it?

 

I'm happy to say that everyone who wanted one got a pour of 2018 Zwanze. We actually had no line for 2018 Zwanze for the last dozen pours off the keg.

 

Well done and it sounds like y’all had a successful event.

 

I got there around two as I waffled about even going. Was able to get a pour of Zwanze and while waiting in line for another pour it kicked and Fencerow was tapped. Pleasantly surprised by this year’s Zwanze. The sky fell and had to stay under the Zwanze tent forcing me to get a second pour of Fencerow. Poor me! Missed all the other Cantillons, but that didn’t matter to me as I knew they would kick as soon as they were tapped. Really enjoyed Spon raspberry - have to say it’s the best fruited Spon.