Happy Brew Year, I hope you all were safe and partied hard at the same time. 2017 is now just a thing of the past that has left us with memories of great parties and new beers that hit the market. It was also the Year of the Haze so I am intrigued to see what 2018 has in store for us.

I attended some kick-ass parties last year so it was only right that I ended the year at Brew Years Eve, a Lou Dog Event, that was held at Architectural Artifacts an 80,000 square feet antique shop that also doubles as an event space in Ravenswood. 2 floors of beautiful vintage furniture and decor  that you get to browse while drinking one of the 5 crafted cocktails, 10 breweries and 25 beers in the line up. Out of all of the beer listed, Half Acre Lead Feather was my beer of choice for the entire night, a black ale that hit you with chocolate and note of roasted coffee beans. Very well balanced in body and in taste.

The energy was high on the lower level, not just because of the drinks but also because of Run Forrest Run a 90’s cover band that paid tribute to the hottest songs of that decade, ranging from R&B to Pop.  I was quite impressed with their song selection and the ability to fully engage the crowd.

I have attended this party a couple of times before,  I had become used to the champagne toast at midnight, but unfortunately, that was not the case this year. At the stroke of midnight, you toasted with whatever you had in your keepsake Brew Years Eve glass, as hugs, kisses, and cheers filled the air. I was a pleasant night to end 2017 and to begin 2018.

For more info on upcoming  Lou Dog Events, go to www.loudogevents. The Chicago Ale Fest - Winter Edition will feature more than 150 American Craft Beers with a strong focus on beers only available in the winter on Saturday, January 20th. Use promo code BYE to save $10.00  per ticket. For more ticket information on Chicago Ale Fest, go to www.chicagoalefest.com