Beer and wine festival on tap in Barrington
There will be plenty to quench the thirst in downtown Barrington this weekend for both beer lovers and wine aficionados.
Friday's fourth annual Uncork Barrington wine-tasting is followed by Saturday's fifth annual Barrington Brew Fest.
Uncork Barrington organizer Molly Grudzinski said the tasting will appeal to anyone who enjoys wine, not just budding sommeliers.
"It's for everyone," she said. "You don't have to be a wine expert to enjoy yourself."
The tasting, scheduled for 6 to 9 p.m. Friday at the downtown Brat Tent, will have 50 wines from various national origins to sample.
"You feel like you are taking a tour around the world," Grudzinski said.
With only 500 tickets available, organizers encourage purchasing tickets early, either online or at two Barrington businesses, Kelley Cellars and McCauley Design.
Tickets are $35 in advance or $40 at the door.
Uncork Barrington volunteer Nick Howard said the number of tickets is limited so crowds don't overwhelm.
"We make it so no one has to stand in line to taste," Howard said.
Proceeds from this year's event will be donated to the Barrington Giving Days project.
Saturday, beer becomes the drink of choice at the downtown Brat Tent.
This year's Brew Fest, scheduled for 3 to 7:30 p.m., will again feature 55 types of beer, both domestic and imported.
"This is a chance to try some new (beers) in a fun environment," said Jim Magnanenzi, the festival's coordinator.
Being able to sample such a wide variety of beers is what keeps people coming back each year, Magnanenzi said.
This year's breweries include Anchor Brewing, Capital Brewery, Lakefront Brewery and Sprecher Brewery.
"There is (beer) here I've never even heard of before," Magnanenzi said, adding a specially brewed pizza beer is on this year's menu.
For designated drivers, Magnanenzi said there will plenty of root beer, cream soda and several types of cider to taste.
The Big Sky String Band will again perform during the Brew Fest.
"I think they get better every year," Magnanenzi said.
Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door.
Proceeds from the Brew Fest support the Barrington Area Council on Aging and the Barrington Village Association.
What: Uncork Barrington wine tasting
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Friday
Where: Downtown Brat Tent, Cook and Main streets in Barrington
Cost: $35 in advance, $40 at the door
Info: uncorkbarrington.com
What: Barrington Brew Fest
When: 3 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday
Where: Downtown Brat Tent, Cook and Main streets
Cost: $30 in advance; $35 at the door
Info: barringtonbrewfest.com