This past Friday, August 27^th, the Fonthill Museum held their annual Biergarten Evening.  In previous years, the event did not focus on any specific beer or style, but offered an extensive array of choices.  This year, however, Fonthill looked to Philadelphia Brewing Company and David April to extend his knowledge of German beers to the sold out crowd.  The main styles of German beer, the history of German brewing, the German process, and typical ingredients were all up for discussion at this tasting.

Set on the grounds of the historic Fonthill Castle Museum, the tutored beer tasting blended perfectly with the surroundings.  Old style charm and Gothic architecture created a dark ambiance for the evening.  The exuberant crowd, extensive beer list, and the Philadelphia German Brass Band were a perfect contrast.  It may be already understood that when 125 beer drinkers, a German Brass Band and array of German style cuisine and beer are all loaded under one giant party tent.

To begin the evening David April guided the packed house of eager tasters through a tour of beers such as Warsteiner, Franziskaner, Einbecker, and Flying Fish to name a few.  After the guided sampling lesson was finished, a hearty German buffet to compliment the variety of drinks was set out.  Between the constant flow of people in line to eat and in line to drink, it was obvious that this was going to be a fun night.  Also on hand was Keystone Homebrew Supply.  They brought over ten different homebrews for people to sample, including two strong zinfandels.  By the time everyone filled up on food and perused the beers on hand, the German Brass Band, dressed in their finest lederhosen, was ready to perform.

Throughout the night, I did not see one unhappy expression.  The entire event was filled with excited, friendly people with the same idea in mind–drink up and have fun!  The only downside was that so many people wanted in that there was not enough room.  Each year has been bigger and better than the last; with such an amazing turn out, they hope to expand once more for the 2011 Biergarten Evening.  Look out for more events coming up at the Fonthill Castle and Mercer Museum!  As they strive to create events that are not only fun, but have a historic and educational base, Fonthill and Mercer definitely succeeded with the Biergarten evening and continue to come up with even more creative and inspiring ideas.

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