So, I know this event took place a while ago now, but I delayed putting up my blog post to take the opportunity to give some feedback to the team in the Central after the event.
Ok, so the event was on a Saturday, the 16th of August and it was in the Meryvn’s Yard section of this award winning pub. It was a space that I’d not seen before, but it was the perfect size, self contained, perfectly sheltered with everything you need for a festival.
All in all there was a great range of vendors there, including a debut from Jack Cody’s from nearby Drogheda. Local Brewer’s Brú were present front and centre, we also had Alltech’s Kentucky Ale, Blacks of Kinsale, Cotton Ball from Cork. There was cider from Dan Kelly’s and Cockagee from nearby Stackallen, just outside Slane. We also had Kilcock’s McGargles, and Dungarvan’s Dungarvan Brewing Company. A great turn out.
There was a threat of rain throughout the day but it thankfully stayed away. But there were plenty of places to seek shelter. As always, the food didn’t let you down, BBQ is perfect to go with Beers, and the Chicken Burger I had was delicious. Served with great salads also.
There were a few things that I think could have made the festival a little better such as kicking things off a little later in the afternoon, as it just seemed to be igniting when everyone was packing down for the evening. The price was a little on the high side too. There were some vendors from the macro world, which I felt didn’t really go with the tone of the festival.
There was some fun on the night with a homebrew competition, and the red ale that won was a superb beer. I forgot my own entry, however next time I wont. I’m also pleased to announce that The Central is going to become home to a new Homebrew Club, and the 1st meeting is going to be on Tuesday 7th October from about 8pm – if you are interested, please get in touch. I’ve also started a thread on the National Homebrew Club’s Forum, the link is here
But, for a first attempt, there was a lot right, however importantly, they’ve sought out feed back, and indeed i’d encourage anyone who was there, whether as a consumer or brewer that you get in touch with the guys, as they are hoping to make this a regular feature on the Meath calendar. And for that the lads deserve kudos for making it happen. Onward and upward!
Irish Beer Snob 