There must be something in the water, how else would you explain an entire week dedicated to our favorite local libations? From American Craft Beer to the inaugural Colorado Whiskey Week, we hope you’re ready for some boozy fun. And if you’re looking for something with a lower ABV or a good excuse to veg out, check out the “Choose Colorado” Pop-Up Picnic or sip some precious nectar from the latest juice bar to hit Governor’s park.
American Craft Beer Week
Beer & Empanada Pairing at Former Future Brewing Company
Where: 1290 S. Broadway, Denver
Neighborhood: Platt Park
When: May 13, 7 – 10 p.m.
Cost: $22/person
Tickets: Inquire at the Former Future Taproom or visit their website for more details.
The Low Down: Maria Empanada and the Former Future Brewing Company will come together for a delicious evening of craft brews and authentic eats. Guests will nibble on a selection of four empanadas paired with four complimentary beers.
Copper Kettle Cheese & Beer Pairing
Where: 1338 S. Valentia Street, #100, Denver
Neighborhood: Windsor
When: May 14, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Cost: $20/person
Tickets: Tickets can be purchased here.
The Low Down: Cheese isn’t just for vino anymore. This Thursday, join the Truffle Cheese Shop and Copper Kettle Brewing Co. for an evening of good eats as guests nosh on four artisan cheeses, and four craft beer samples in the brewery’s intimate event center.
Denver Beer Co. Canworks Tour
Where: 4455 Jason St., Denver
Neighborhood: Sunnyside
When: May 15, 5 – 7 p.m. (tours start on the hour)
The Low Down: To celebrate the Princess Yum Yum can release and explore Denver Beer Co.’s newest facility, stop by Canworks for a tour and a complimentary three taster flight. In addition, Denver Beer Co. will host four other events during American Craft Beer Week. Go here to learn more.
Seminar and Tasting with Patrick Dawson, author of “Vintage Beer”
Where: Crooked Stave, 3350 Brighton Blvd., Denver
Neighborhood: RiNo
When: May 15, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $10
Tickets: Tickets can be purchased here.
The Low Down: Sip on three vintage Crooked Stave brews and talk hops with Patrick Dawson, author of “Vintage Beer.” Dawson will discuss aging and cellaring, including what makes certain beers ageable.
Colorado Whiskey Week
Whiskey Throwdown & Doughnut Showdown 2.0
Where: Thrive Ballpark, 1415 Park Ave. West, Denver
Neighborhood: Ballpark
When: May 15, 6 – 9 p.m.
Cost: $35 ($50 at the door)
Tickets: Tickets can be purchased here.
The Low Down: Following last year’s success, the 2015 Whiskey Throwdown & Doughnut Showdown will bring together two of Denver’s favorites: donuts and craft whiskey. Tickets include unlimited whiskey and donut sampling, and part of the proceeds go to benefit Minds Matter.
International Whiskey Tasting at Argyll
Where: 1035 E. 17th Ave., Denver
Neighborhood: Uptown
When: May 16, 6 – 8 p.m.
Cost: $55
Tickets: Only 45 tickets available, grab yours here.
The Low Down: Sip on an impress assortment of international whiskeys and nibble on some savory bites at this intimate event in Uptown. Nine whiskeys will be on hand for a blind tasting, with the big reveal at 8 p.m.
Bring on the Veggies
“Choose Colorado” Pop-Up Picnic
Where: Carpenter Park Fields—108th Avenue & Colorado Boulevard, Thornton
When: May 16, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Low Down: Colorado Proud will kick off its summer-long series of farm-fresh pop-up picnics at Thorntonfest. The picnics will include samples of local produce; conversations with guest chefs, farmers and agricultural experts; giveaways; and tips for fresh on-the-go meals. This is a great opportunity to “taste” the importance of buying local. Go here to see the full schedule of summer pop-ups.
Flow Juice Bar Grand Opening
Where: 208 E. 7th St., Denver
Neighborhood: Governor’s Park
When: May 16 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
The Low Down: With Summer so close we can taste it, juice is definitely in season. Stop by Flow Juice Bar and try one of its cold-pressed concoctions, signature smoothies, or grab-and-go treats. This new juicery is dedicated to sourcing organic produce, and making it easy to stay healthy and educated.
New Eats
Spring Menu at Blackbelly Market
Where: 1606 Conestoga Street #3, Boulder
Neighborhood: East Boulder
The Low Down: Chef Hosea Rosenburg has whipped up some beautiful new dishes to usher in spring in Boulder, new dishes include a Spanish octopus salad with smoked marcona almonds, a golden potato gnocchi with local mushrooms, fiddleheads and pistachio-nettle pesto, and a spring tartine made with fava beans, ramps, english peas and grana. Chef Hosea has also introduced a “Daily Butcher’s Cut” menu, where various beef, lamb and pork cuts are offered each night in limited supply. Offerings include anything from an 8 ounce leg of Colorado blackface lamb roast to a 13 ounce beef coulotte steak.
Mark Your Calendars
Green Russell Negroni Week Kick-off Party
Where: 1422 Larimer St., Denver
Neighborhood: LoDo-Larimer Square
When: June 1, 6 p.m.
Cost: $10 at the door
The Low Down: Green Russell will tap the its very own creation of the world’s largest barrel-aged Negroni — a 216-bottle blend of Bulldog Gin, Campari and Cinzano — to kick off this year’s Negroni Week. 100 percent of the door fees for the event along with additional beverage sales will benefit Brent’s House, a foundation for children with cancer. For more Negroni Week festivities visit the official website.