Pleasing to say that our 34th Exeter Festival of Beer was a success. Attendance over the two days was increased by approximately 200 people. Disappointingly, though, because the attendance was up on the Thursday and Friday sessions, there was very little beer left for the Saturday evening. My sincere apologies to those people who missed out.

We had 62 beers last year and had to throw beer away; this year we had 63 beers and ran out by Saturday evening. It’s a nice problem to have and our festival committee are already working on the idea of more beer and stillage.

It is our second year at the Corn Exchange, Exeter and it seems people like this venue very much. The biggest advantage is that all facilities are on one level and there is far more room for seating.

Last year we had a tutored tasting session on Belgian beer. So successful was it that this year we had two tasting sessions, one on Friday which was Porters and Stouts and another on the Saturday, French Beer. Both sessions were a huge success and we are hoping that these tasting sessions will become a regular event.

We had 63 great beers, 7 ciders and 2 perries and all sold out. First beer to sell out was ‘Where’s Me Jumper’ a 4.7% Porter from Fonthill Brewing Co, Tonbridge Wells.

Once again, I say thanks to all those who came to our festival, many coming from far away places as well as the South West area. In addition, a big thanks to all our sponsors, our hosts Exeter Corn Exchange and above all the volunteer staff who make this festival happen.

If you were unable to attend for whatever reason, then try our 35th Exeter Festival of Beer next January when we will be having even more beer. It’s a great festival and certainly helps to dispel those winter blues that ‘Dry January’ can cause.

Cheers
Ray Dwan
Festival Organiser

(Photos follow shortly)