Hundreds upon hundreds of people, many of them dressed in green, turned out for Grapevine’s 4th Annual Beertopia yesterday in Baxter, Fort Mill. The festival began at 2pm and by 1:45, there was already a long line of people wrapping around several blocks. Tickets for the event, which are limited to 1,400, were sold out the night before. The line moved quickly once the clock struck 2, and there was plenty of beer to be had for all.

Among the brewers at this year’s Beertopia were Allagash Brewing, Bell’s, Brooklyn Brewery, Dogfish, Abita, Four Friends Brewing, Magic Hat Brewing Company, New Belgium, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, and Sweet Water Brewing Company. Representing York County was Windy Hill Cidery from York, SC with all 4 of their hard ciders available for sample. The ciders were a nice change-up from the beers. I sampled their newest cider, Rusty Gold, a spiced cider infused with cinnamon, nutmeg and other spices. They must have been quite popular because when I went back to get a sample of my beloved Gala Peach around 5, they were completely out of everything.

Music by U-Phonik

The weather couldn’t have been better, and by all measures the 4th Annual Beertopia was a success. Lots of beer consumed and money raised for Pints for Prostates. Looking forward to the 5th annual Beertopia in 2013!