As the temperature rose in the city, many people made the trek to the Masquerade Music Park for the Atlanta Summer Beer festival. The festival showcased 200 different beers and several vendors from The Naked Donut Company to complementary food pairings depending on the type of beer you’re sipping on. This festival, I decided to focus on the new breweries that are coming into view, including Brookhaven’s Pontoon Brewing Company.
I first was attracted to them because their logo includes a cute little otter, and I really like otters. But after taking a sip of their Southern Skipper White IPA, I knew that they would be a force to be recognized with in the next couple of years. “We’ve only been a brewery for about six months, and only have 2 beers out. We’re excited to release a third beer soon!” Brian, one of the brewers, commented while we were in line. They already have a marketing plan in place, selling coozies and stickers as well as showing off their bright colored t-shirts and tank tops.
The next brewery I checked out was Three Taverns Brewery. Based out of Decatur (where its greater!), the brewery has been getting a lot of great attention from restaurants and craft brewers alike. Their Night on Ponce IPA is just enough hoppiness to get your IPA fix, but smooth and refreshing for a hot summer day.
Another brewery that I sang the praises for was Eventide. I remember 3 years ago getting a coozie from Eventide during my first beer festival after my 21st birthday. Seeing how far they have come from then to now is astonishing. Their pale ale is always my summer go-to because it’s crisp and refreshing, and just enough flavor as I do enjoy the taste of beers.
All of the breweries were great, and the atmosphere is always a good time! The next festival coming up is the Great Atlanta Beer Festival in September. I’ll be there! Will you?
