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WORLD EXPO OF BEER
Frankenmuth, Michigan, the first American city authorized to serve
Munich's world- famous Hofbrauhaus Beer, taps into its annual World Expo
of Beer (WEB) in the middle of May
The WEB, one of a handful of truly international beer festivals in the
United States, is rapidly becoming a tradition in this popular tourist
town, known as Michigan's "Little Bavaria." Some 45 breweries from the
U.S. and abroad will serve samples of 225 of their best beers, complemented
by Frankenmuth cuisine from local restaurants.
Blending tradition with trends, this year's WEB will also feature a
"gourmet" cigar tent, staffed by experts and stocked with a wide array
of humidor-fresh cigars.
"It's fitting that Frankenmuth should host the World Expo of Beer because
brewing has been a part of this community since its founding by Bavarian
settlers in the middle of the last century," said Annette Rummel, president
of the Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce.
As in the old world, the Frankenmuth festival can be a full family event--with
Frankenmuth's 100-plus Bavarian shops, craftsmen and attractions a short
stroll up Main Street from the tasting site. In addition, soft drinks
are available and designated drivers get in free.
Another innovation this year is the Budweiser Beer School--a traveling
1,400-square-foot classroom in which both retailers and consumers can take
a short course in the finer points of brewing. Entrance to the Budweiser
Beer School is free.
Beer judging will be done in two stages. Celebrity judges tasted
all competing beers in advance and have selected category winners.
WEB attendees will cast their votes during the event and that winner will
be the people's choice.
Tickets to the WEB are $20 and entitle the bearer to 20 samples.
The site includes a traditional biergarten area and a Collectibles Marketplace.
By Madelyn Miller
-Updated 10-18-98-
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