We went up to Reno, NV to visit my wife's folks for the long weekend and my mother-in-law told me about a beer tasting. I looked it up (http://www.sierrataphouse.com/) and saw that it was really a home brew competition where the brewers have to bring 5 gallons of beer, and serve it to the public. That's a pretty cool idea, unfortunately I didn't have 5 gallons to bring, and you have to sign up about 30 days in advanced. Winner gets to goto Beer Camp at Sierra Nevada Brewery.
It was a pretty small event, as far as beer events go. Didn't get too crowded and I didn't see anyone pass out like you normally see a couple of hours into beer fests (why can't these douce bags pace themselves?) The weather was nice too. Nice and sunny, but not too hot. Just enough to make you want more beer.
It was great being able to taste peoples beer and talk to them about it. Most where pretty tasty, a couple of good black IPA's, a bourban/wood aged beer, and another IPA, which I'll get to in a minute, where my favorites. I did taste some not-so-good beer too. 3 or 4 had an off taste to them that seemed like they where infected (and I know infected beer, I brew some all the time
) The best part though was seeing a BN'er that was competing. Kevin had a great IPA that was my favorite of the day. Clean, nice aroma, and quite tasty. The only one I went back for more off. He also had a great Altbier. I got to chat with him a little too, nice guy. 
Congratulations to Kevin who came in 2nd!
I think this happens every year. If you find yourself going to Reno around 4th of July, its worth looking to see if this event is going on.
cheers and Brewstrong!
Love
KM
