Melvin Brewing takes the cup

The 24th annual Saratoga Steinley Cup Microbrew Festival and Competition was held this past weekend and over 640 craft beer enthusiasts attended the festival.

This year's competition class was ESB, and Melvin Brewing Company's "Johnny Rotten" was announced to be the Best ESB in Wyoming according to the judging panel. The People's Choice winner for favorite brewery was newcomer Bond's Brewing of Laramie.

Eleven breweries attended this year, which thrilled Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce CEO Stacy Crimmins. "We are indebted to our Wyoming breweries and are happy to highlight this great industry. About ten years ago, there were only 12 breweries in the state and far fewer festivals. Now there are about 35 breweries and countless festivals to attend. Craft beer aficionados have so many more options now and so we appreciate the support of our breweries and our fans."

Craig Rothwell, the brewer representing Melvin Brewing, will be taking home the famed Steinely Cup. This traveling trophy has been placed behind the bar of many Wyoming breweries through the 24 years. "This is the first time we have representation from Thai Me Up Restaurant and Melvin Brewing, so it is very exciting to welcome them to the Good Times Valley. We are pleased that Julien Lacourse, general manager of Thai Me Up chose to attend this year," Crimmins added.

The attendees of the festival were also given the opportunity to vote for their favorite brewery. A brand-new Laramie Brewery, Bond's Brewing Company will take the honor this year. "This is an affirmation of the popularity of craft beer and the willingness of Wyoming's expanding industry to welcome new breweries," said Crimmins.

In addition to the beer competition, a hotly contested chili competition was also held. The People's Choice winner for Green Chili was made by Saratogan, Edge Powell. Powell also won in 2016. The best Red Chili was made by Julia Chavez from Aurora, Colorado. Last year, Julia won in the green chili category. Jim Barr from Cheyenne was deemed to have the best Salsa-second year in a row. Each winner received a certificate and trophy worthy of a mantle, and a Chamber gift certificate of $50. Bragging rights for the year is the real prize, however.

Kids also enjoyed the bright-colored beach balls they were given and sponsored by Bridge Street Bargains upon entering with their families. They also had a chance to vote for their favorite root beer sponsored by The Red Wagon. A craft fair and live music by Max Marckey from Fort Collins rounded out the day.

Crimmins stated this was the 16th beer festival she has planned. "I could not do it without the support of a fantastic board of Directors, dedicated volunteers, professional staff and our Hometown Hero event sponsors: Carbon County Visitors Council, Saratoga Hot Springs Resort, Valley Foods, The Country Store, Hotel Wolf, Aspen Sky Merchant Mall, Firewater Public House, North Fork Engineering and VIP Marketing."

This event draws people from all over the state of Wyoming and from northern Colorado. It is estimated the economic benefit of this four-hour event is easily over $175,000. Acting as the "go-to" center for businesses and visitors, the Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization serving more than 180 local businesses. Founded in 1974, the Chamber is a trusted, informative and well-represented organization that is in touch with the Valley. For more information, visit www.saratogachamber.info.