The overcast sky gave way to sunshine as thousands of beer fanatics sampled beer at the 2011 Autumn Brew Review. The lines were noticeably long at the Surly stand (a local favorite) but it didn't matter because there were plenty of other options such as Great Lakes Brewing Company which was pouring samples of its famous Imperial Red Ale called Nosferatu. This was an especially tasty beer that was a little boozy and sweet but was balanced out well by the hop content. Another surprise came from a brewery out of Salt Lake City called Epic. Their Jetty IPA (available at Surdyk's) was delicious and heavy on the hops as evidenced by the prominent flavor of grapefruit. Across the way, Bell's Brewery was serving Black Note Stout which had a good chocolate flavor and was pleasantly smooth making it a perfect fit for this beautiful day. Pretzel necklace-clad beer junkies waited in line at the Surly booth to try Five (a dark sour variety) and Bourbon Darkness (a bourbon barrel-aged Imperial Stout); both of which are limited time offerings from Surly. Owner, Omar Ansari, and brewer, Todd Haug, could be seen mingling with the crowds of people who stood eagerly in line waiting to try their latest varieties. Cheers roared from the Midwest Brewing Supplies stand where names were drawn to determine hourly prize winners. Stirring spoons, kegging supplies, and brewing ingredients were just some of the items that could be won simply by filling out a slip of paper. Northern Brewer was also represented; educating people on the home brewing process, handing out instructional DVD's and, if you were lucky, a pint glass emblazoned with the Northern Brewer logo. Attendees could be seen making their way to the food trucks to fill their hungry stomachs before the long trek home and with the impressive lineup of food how could one resist? Events like the Autumn Brew Review are ones that spark lasting memories and always leave people wondering where they can find some of these phenomenal brews. Your best bet would be The Four Firkins in St. Louis Park, The Wine Thief in St. Paul, or Surdyk's on University Avenue in Northeast Minneapolis. This event was a great success—showing that the locals really care about supporting Craft Beer and that, my friends, is something worth raising a pint to. Cheers! For more information on events put on by the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild visit their website.