Hello from GABF

Cheers from the Great American Beer Festival (GABF)



The GABF is being held during a crazy week when the stock market loses 18% of its value. There are so many economic issues right now but one fact is clear we need to create real products here at home that create real jobs and real income. The GABF held each year in Denver celebrates an industry of locally made products. Though there is negative energy surrounding the world economy, this week there is positive energy on the floor of the Denver Convention Center.



Not too long ago the Democrats were celebrating Obama on this same floor. He should suspend his campaign to visit the GABF and salute the creative and talented people energizing the economy. If he becomes president part of his platform should highlight the craft beer industry as an example of what is possible locally.



This is the 27th GABF and this year there are 430 breweries participating and 1800 beers showcased. The quality is unbelievable and by the time you wander the floor and sample beers from around the country it becomes obvious that talented brewers reside from coast to coast. There are very few if any off-condition beers and every year the number of provocative flavors increases.



The GABF is still the most prestigious competition in the country. There are 75 style categories and 125 judges from around the world who put there lips to close to 3000 beers. Gold, silver and bronze medals are awarded to beers that represent a style category best.

Winning a medal at GABF is an important event in a brewer's life. It is like graduation day or that first kiss or that first car. A brewer may downplay how important it is but you can tell from a brewer with a medal in their hand how exciting it really is.



Tonight will be another great night at Convention Hall and for four hours the economy and all that other depressing news will be forgotten. Fill up that glass and visit another beer region. It is a celebration for an industry that is doing truly great things.



Tomorrow will be the award ceremony. The winners don't know until they are announced. When that happens there is pleasurable screaming. The brewers march up to the podium with a big smile on their face. The public returns when the ceremony is over and the final tasting is on.



So it goes at GABF 2008.



Cheers