I had a bad time a Pro Night at NHC this year. The place was packed and every body either wanted a step by step description of the brewing process, or would, after getting their beer, simply turn around to chat with their friends. So I wrote this for my blog:
Allow me to propose a rule of ettiquette when you attend a beer festival: STEP AWAY FROM THE FUCKING BAR!!
Remember there are people behind you. After you get your beer, if you must ask questions, make them short and sweet. For example, “This is a nice beer. Would you consider helping brew something like it? May I email you?†Get the card then STEP AWAY FROM THE FUCKING BAR!
And don't simply turn around and talk to your friends, who have formed a large circle in front of the table. We're not attackers. You don't have to circle the wagons to defend the jockey box. Take ten steps from the bar so other people can have some beer. We will leave you some. Just STEP AWAY FROM THE FUCKING BAR!
Can we get an up or down vote on adding this?