Despite a little rain and some overcast conditions, Mel’s Funway Park was bustling with eager patrons attending the second Wicked Wine & Brew Fest.  The event had been held last year in Hollis, and this year was changed to a more central location near Manchester.  Either way, people were out in droves, and the goodness was flowing.

Aside from the obvious wine and beer, there were vendors from: Cozy Tea Cart (great tea), Tastefully Simple (with beer bread mix), Kettle to Keg (way better than Mr. Beer), The True Nut Company (awesome almonds) and other local vendors getting their names out about local products and services.

Ok, now to the alcohol.  While I am the ‘beer guy’ I did sample some great Mead from Piscassic Pond Winery, and wine from Silver Mountain Cider and Wine and Candia Vineyards.  All the wines were great.

I was impressed with the beer showing from Martha’s Exchange, their Octoberfest was good.  Long Trail’s Harvest Ale was a welcome to fall weather.  Widmer’s Drifter pale ale was a huge surprise; one I will have to keep on my radar.  Pennichuck Brewing had a solid showing with Big “O” and Halligan IPA.  Peak Organic’s Amber Ale always makes me happy.  Finally, Rapscallion Brewery, from western Massachusetts, proved their honey ale was very good indeed.

Not a bad afternoon to be walking around, enjoying the company of friends and getting some fresh air.  The souvenir glasses were a hot commodity, since a fraction of people who bought tickets beforehand got one, and, of course, my wine-drinking companion and I each got one.  Keep your eyes out for next year’s festival and check out all of these companies on the web at their respective sites.  Or visit them in person; I may be making house calls soon.

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