A Toast to Tradition and Innovation: La Mesa Oktoberfest and New Whiskey Releases

This week, we celebrate the return of La Mesa Oktoberfest and explore the latest whiskey innovations, including Arrogant Bastard Whiskey. Join us for a roundup of festivities and new flavors.

Weekly Roundup: Celebrations and Whiskey Innovations

As the autumn season approaches, whisky enthusiasts and craft beer lovers alike have much to celebrate. This week, we explore the vibrant La Mesa Oktoberfest and delve into exciting new whiskey releases that are making waves in the spirits industry.

Cheerful scenes from La Mesa Oktoberfest.

La Mesa Oktoberfest: A Tradition with a Twist

La Mesa’s Oktoberfest is back and running from today, October 4th, to this Sunday, October 6th. With a rich 51-year history, this festival has transformed from a modest beer garden into a vibrant celebration featuring not only traditional German beer and bratwurst but also an array of family-friendly activities.

Laurel McFarlane, the driving force behind the festival and dubbed the “queen of fun,” has infused the event with new life, adding features like carnival rides, arts and crafts, yodeling contests, and even a pumpkin patch. As she aptly puts it, > “We added a lot of elements.”

With three distinct beer tents—one focused on German lagers, another on craft beers, and a third, the Palm Tree Pub and Grub, aimed at football aficionados—there’s something for everyone. The festival prioritizes a family-friendly atmosphere, which has contributed to a significant decline in alcohol-related incidents at the event.

Details to Remember

Location: La Mesa Boulevard between Spring Street and Allison Avenue
Schedule: 4 PM to 10 PM (today), 10 AM to 10 PM (Saturday), noon to 8 PM (Sunday)
More Information: La Mesa Oktoberfest

Drams of Arrogance: New Whiskey Release

Switching gears, we turn to the world of whiskey. Enter “Arrogant Bastard Whiskey,” a product of a collaboration between Stone Brewing and Iowa’s Foundry Distilling. Launched last month, this year’s batch has been aged in new, charred oak barrels for over four years, boasting a higher proof of 97.

Fans and critics alike have been intrigued by its tagline: > “Loved By Few. Hated By Many.” However, one critic, Jonah Flicker from the Robb Report, described it as “surprisingly fruity and light,” suggesting notes of green apple and citrus alongside some spice and vanilla. This whiskey bridges the gap between beer and spirits, showcasing the creative possibilities within the brewing community.

The bold and unique Arrogant Bastard Whiskey.

Upcoming Events

Today: O’Brien’s Annual Wet Hop Beer Festival kicks off today and will run for 10 days or until the last keg is drained.
Sunday: The final Oktoberfest celebrations at Blue Fire Brewing and Deft Brewing.
- Blue Fire Brewing: 2892 S. Santa Fe Ave., Suite 107, San Marcos
- Deft Brewing: 5328 Banks St., San Diego. More Info

San Diego Brewing’s Ohana Mana Wet Hop IPA Fresh hop flavors in every sip!
Beer Recommendation: Ohana Mana from San Diego Brewing, a Wet Hop IPA with refreshing herbal qualities and light bitterness (ABV: 5.5%).

Living Haus Beer Company’s Cole Fresh Hop IPA Discover the citrus notes of Cole Fresh Hop IPA.
Drink or Dump: Fresh Hop Cole IPA, a citrus-packed delight (ABV: 7%).

Kern River Brewing’s Wet Hop IPA Enjoy the refreshing, crisp taste of Wet Exit.
Latest Brew: Wet Exit from Kern River Brewing, vibrant and layered with berry and mint notes (ABV: 6.8%).

Conclusion

With the La Mesa Oktoberfest bringing a burst of energy to the community and new whiskey offerings tantalizing tastes, this week encapsulates the spirit of celebration and innovation in the world of artisanal beverages. Whether you prefer a festive beer or a daring whiskey, there’s plenty to explore as we head into the fall.