Craft Brew & Food Fest

Craft beer enthusiasts will have the chance to enjoy some never-before-tasted microbrewery brands when the inaugural Craft Brew & Food Fest comes to Port Elizabeth on October 14 and 15.

The two-day festival will give the PE public the opportunity to taste more than 20 different craft beer brands and boutique wines from across the country, paired with expertly prepared foods to fit each style.

Organiser Elsje Smuts, who is the driving force behind the successful Christmas in the Home seasonal market, has been busy behind the scenes to create what she describes as “an unique taste experience”.

According to Smuts, the festival will be all about “enjoying fine craft beer and artisanal food with family and friends in a relaxed environment.”

Jonathan Roche, technical partner to Smuts on the craft brew side, said craft beer was currently one of the fastest growing sectors in the food and beverage category worldwide.

“South Africa has over 800 craft beer brands and we hope to bring many of these great brands to PE over time,” said Roche.

“We want to take people on a journey through craft beer as it evolves over time.”

He said beer lovers could look forward to tasting both familiar and new craft beers and ciders as they explored and compared a wide range of beer styles.

For PE’s foodie set, Smuts said the focus would be as much on the food as the beer.

“The beauty of this event is having an equivalent range and selection of culinary delights on equal standing with the beer.”

She said recognised and amateur chefs and bakers would create food and delicacies closely linked to each craft beer category or style.

The festival will be held in the former Valley Market venue in Baakens Valley, on the corner of Alabaster and Lower Valley Roads.

The public is encouraged to book online as a limited number of tickets are available. Go to www.webtickets.co.za and find the CRAFT BREW & FOOD FEST.
Tickets are R100 and include your entry fee, a bottoms-up cup as well as six craft beer tasters.

For more information, find Craft Brew & Food Fest on Facebook. Alternatively, phone Elsje Smuts on 082 873 7663 or email elsje@truebluecommunication.co.za.