Another Okanagan Fest of Ale weekend has wrapped up in the South Okanagan.
Dozens of breweries came together at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre on Friday and Saturday to showcase more than 125 craft beers, ciders and seltzers.
Okanagan Fest of Ale Society president Michael Stokker said the 29th annual edition was “an awesome time” and organizers are “thrilled with the success of the event.”
“Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, and we heard incredibly positive feedback from guests and breweries throughout the weekend,” Stokker noted.
“This event is rooted in tradition and community, and that’s exactly what makes it so meaningful to so many people. Seeing all of the hard work come together – and watching so many folks genuinely enjoying themselves – fills us with pride and gratitude.”
Warren Everton, chair of the judges panel, said they had a tough task evaluating such a large and impressive lineup of beers across 10 categories.
“The winners represent an impressive collection of some of the best beers and ciders in the province, well worth seeking out at your local liquor store, restaurant or taproom,” he explained.
They ended up awarding Best In Show to the Dockside Dunkel from Lakesider Brewing in West Kelowna, with the Naramata Nut Brown from Penticton’s Cannery Brewing receiving an honourable mention.
Another Penticton brewery, Hwy 97 Brewing, won the People's Choice award for Best Beer for their Triple Berry Cream Wheat Ale.
There were also People’s Choice awards for Best Cider – won by Summerland Heritage Cider Co.’s Mango Passionfruit – and Best Food Vendor – won by Mystic Pizza.
Not only is the Okanagan Fest of Ale a great place for people to come together and enjoy beer, cider and more over two days, it also generates money for local charities.
Profits from the festival are distributed through a grant application process and the Okanagan Fest of Ale Society has gifted nearly $850,000 back to the community in its history.
For the full list of winners at this year's Okanagan Fest of Ale, check out the event's Facebook page or stay tuned for this weekend's Beer Column that will cover them all.
