Pacific BAs, My wife and me will be making our way to San Diego this Saturday and noticed that Stone is hosting a beer fest the following day. Coming from Portland, I have heard nothing about this fest but would love some feedback on what to expect. Is it held in the Gardens? How busy does it get? The list looks pretty tasty - http://www.stonebrewing.com/events/stone-oakquinox-2016 - for those who havent seen it. I assume beers blow pretty quickly? We want to maximize the experience so any advice would be appreciated. Hope to see some fellow BAers there next Sunday.
I haven't been to it in a few years, but it's a pretty cool event. Takes place in the garden. It gets pretty busy. First thing you guys should do is grab a table somewhere in the shade. Then divide and conquer. Try to figure out what beers will blow first. The FiftyFifty and Cascade lines are always a shit show
Agree. Have an area to post up to enjoy the long day. If there are any special pours, they'll go quick, so keep an ear to the ground. Those pours in the past have been at opening, so maybe get there before opening for a table and pours.
With any of the Stone Esco fests (with the possible exception of sour fest). If you get in line 20-30 minutes early, the first 30-45 minutes will be significantly less crowded and you can pretty much take your pick for the first couple pours. The more whale-ish bottles will usually go first since some have fewer than others. Overall, I like these fests for the atmosphere of hanging out in the gardens and obviously for the great beer. It does get a little crowded, but significantly less than most fests IMO. Getting a table is a good call but you can almost always find somewhere to sit if need be. Oakquinox if a good one because of the range of styles available. The sours always make for a nice palate cleanser between big barrel aged beers. I think you'll enjoy it, I'll be there with the wife as well. Cheers! Final note: If you didn't get tickets already I would suggest doing so somewhat soon. They usually do sell out and don't have tickets available the day of.
There will be concessions (chicken burritos, mac n' cheese, etc.) available for purchase during the festival. See you Sunday! Cheers, Jamie S. Stone Social Media Coordinator
That was my plan all along. Surprisingly not many others had the same idea. I think it was still pouring by the end. Weird. Great beer regardless, that was my first try.
