Kasper On Tap: Oktoberfest at the Fairgrounds: Perhaps too successful
Was it just me or did anyone else who attended Saturday’s Oktoberfest in Timonium feel crowded?
The event, sponsored by the Brewer’s Association of Maryland, was well-run, with plenty of good beer. I counted 58 beers on the list of Maryland brews.
But the setting, under the Timonium Fairgrounds grandstand, was less than desirable. It was dark, loud and congested.
If you stood in line for beer, as almost everyone did, you blocked folks who were simply trying to move along. Outside at the sunny picnic tables and near the stage where the bands were playing, it felt better.
As I recall this event, or one like it, was once held outdoors at Oregon Ridge . Should it return to the great outdoors?
As for the beers, the most interesting newcomer I tasted was Hoptopsy, a new release from Barley and Hops, a restaurant and microbrewery in Frederick. Brewer Will Golden told me it is an extra special bitter, 6 percent ABV, with Amarillo and Pacific Jade hops. Good stuff.
Two questions: Should Maryland’s Oktoberfest move outdoors to accommodate the crowds?
What was your favorite beer at the festival?
