Salt of the Earth & New Holland Brewing Company Host 2nd Annual Harvest Dinner (Thurs Oct 18)

A five-course Harvest Dinner – showcasing the award-winning craft beers from New Holland Brewing Company and the region’s agricultural bounty – will grace the table at Salt of the Earth in downtown Fennville on Thursday, October 18 at 7pm.

In the days before the dinner, teams from Salt of the Earth and New Holland Brewing will visit local farms – walking fields, tasting produce, talking to farmers and gathering ingredients and inspiration for this special menu. These farms include Evergreen Lane Farm & Creamery, Coachstop Farms, Cranes Orchard & Eaters Guild. The crafting of the menu and the meal itself will be a collaboration between Salt’s Executive Chef Matthew Pietsch and New Holland’s “Beervangelist” Fred Bueltmann.

Each course will be paired with beers from New Holland – likely to include Hopivore, a Harvest Ale wet-hopped with 100% Michigan hops; Ichabod Ale brewed with pumpkin; Grain of Salt - an ale with Michigan wheat and hops, collaboratively brewed earlier this summer to celebrate Salt of the Earth's 3rd Anniversary; and a barrel-aged Grain of Salt, with smoked blueberries.

New Holland’s “Harvest Series” is a collection of events running mid-September through mid-October that celebrate the local agriculture bounty. Through this series, guests are invited to learn about farms, artisan producers and more at various soirees designed to boost awareness of the incredible agricultural region in which we live. Events take place both in the Pub in Holland and out and about in the market.
 
Space for the dinner is limited to 50 people, and reservations are required. Call 269-561-SALT (7258). The cost for each dining experience is only $60 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Dinner starts at 7pm and is expected to last approximately two hours.

Salt of the Earth - rustic American eatery and bakery is located in a historic building in downtown Fennville, in the heart of southwest Michigan farm and orchard country. A meal at the restaurant is an authentic Midwest American rustic food experience, built from a foundation of fresh high quality seasonal ingredients from growers within a fifty-mile radius of Allegan County. Under the direction of rising star Chef Matthew Pietsch, the SotE kitchen cooks from scratch to create dinner entrees, wood oven fired pizzas, creative soups, fresh salads, desserts, and artisan breads.

A full-service bar proudly serves Michigan craft beers, hard ciders, spirits, and wines alongside other domestic and international products. Salt of the Earth is also a popular entertainment destination presenting the finest roots musicians on the scene at weekly house concerts.

Expect a high quality destination dining experience in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Please call 269.561.7258 or visit www.saltoftheearthfennville.com for menus, current hours of operation, house concert, and event schedules.

New Holland Brewing Company, established in 1997, has grown from a scrappy two-man start-up to a thriving regional craft brewery and craft distillery, recognized for its creativity and artistry. Their mission “to enhance customer’s quality of life by providing the most remarkable experience possible and empower an artistic approach in all aspects of our craft” shows up in our diverse, balanced collection of beer and spirits. New Holland brews and distills at two locations in Holland, Michigan (a production facility on the north side and the Pub & Restaurant, downtown). The restaurant welcomes guests seven days a week and production tours are on Saturday afternoons. In 2012, New Holland Brewing will ship more than 20,000 barrels of beer across 15 states and shipped several thousand cases of spirits to more than eight Midwestern states. For more information about this award-winning brewery, distillery and restaurant, visit www.newhollandbrew.com.

Movie Tidbits, Trivia & Events Along Michigan’s Lakeshore

With all the buzz about the upcoming Waterfront Film Festival and Michigan’s growing film industry, we thought we’d share some big screen tidbits, trivia and even some local movie event details with you from the Holland & Saugatuck Area Attractions Group.

Crane’s Pie Pantry
On Saturday, June 11, Crane’s Pie Pantry – located in Fennville (Goose City, USA) will be showing the 1996 “Fly Away Home” with Michigan’s own Jeff Daniels and Anna Paquin in what they’re calling Fennville’s own “One Night Film Festival.” This free family movie will be shown in the field own by the corn maze, behind the restaurant. The restaurant will be open until 8pm, so plan on a late dinner before the show begins. Bring your lawn chair or a blanket and snacks (although concessions will be sold as well) and settle in for an evening of family fun. Admission begins at 8pm with the movie starting around 8:30/9:00pm (weather permitting). www.cranespiepantry.com |269-561-2297

Fenn ValleyGet your SIDEWAYS on right here at Fenn Valley Vineyards in Fennville. Winemaker cellar tours are offered at 3pm every Saturday (excluding 6/25) – providing a chance for you to taste from the barrels and tanks as you learn what makes Fenn Valley wines unique. Cost is $8 per person and includes a logo wine glass and $5 coupon. Reservations encouraged. Also, save the date for the Fenn Valley Wine Fest, June 25 (1-5pm), with great wines, tasty ethnic foods, a barrel aging demonstration and music by Natches Trace. Cost is $8 for adults. No reservations required. www.fennvalley.com | 269-561-2396

Dutch Village
Did you know that Nelis’ Dutch Village operates The Bioscoop (a movie theater)? This should be your first stop in the village, where you can enjoy a “Souvenir of Holland” and get a general overview of the Netherlands. Other documentaries are shown throughout the day; the schedule is listed in the daily visitor’s guide.

Dutch Village has been the setting for a Dutch documentary for the VPRO TV network in the Netherlands and has also hosted the filming of three movies and documentaries in the past two years: “What’s Wrong with Virginia” in 2009 and “Return to the Hiding Place” in 2010 (which was also filmed at Windmill Island). Set in 1941, this poignant and riveting World War II film centers around Corrie Ten Boom’s teenage army who fight to save the lives of the innocent during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. It is due out yet this year.

Also of note, wooden shoes – made at Dutch Village – have even been featured in the movie, Elizabethtown and in the series Sex and the City (season 6). www.dutchvillage.com | 616-396-1475

New Holland Brewing
The summer seasonal Golden Cap Saison pays homage to the “flying monkeys” from the Wizard of Oz – written by L. Frank Baum who vacationed in nearby Castle Park! A modern interpretation of a traditional farmhouse ale, Golden Cap is a soft, pale beer that embodies the flavors and aromas of summer fields. New Holland’s Mad Hatter proudly displays an original illustration of the popular character from Alice in Wonderland.

Celebrate Mad Hatter’s Birthday – on Saturday, June 11 (5pm-1am) with a full day of activities and several variations on the “Hatter” theme including seven different Hatter beers and even a couple of spirits. Festivities include a Beer and Cheese Smackdown followed by a Mixology Class. The Bike n' Bar will be available for rides. Guests can also enjoy a Photobooth, complimentary Tea Party snacks, raffle prizes throughout the evening and a Mad Hatter birthday cake you will have to see to believe!!! The cake will be on display through the evening with a carving and toast at 10:06pm. Throughout the night, DJ Snax will be providing the music. There is no cover for this event; no minors allowed after 11pm. www.newhollandbrew.com | 616-335-6422

Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruises
Embrace your inner Tom Sawyer with a leisurely float on the Kalamazoo River aboard an authentic sternwheel paddleboat. Bring your binoculars and camera to observe the birds, water fowl and other animals in their natural environment. The shoreline is peppered with color as the spring wildflowers make their appearance for the season. On Friday, June 24, make reservations for the extended cruise from 7-10pm with live music, a picnic lunch and cash bar. Seating is limited and reservations are required. www.saugatuckboatcruises.com | 269-857-4261

Saugatuck Dune Rides
As you head out for your exploration along the Lake Michigan shoreline with Saugatuck Dune Rides (celebrating its 30th anniversary this summer), be sure to check out the former Pine Crest Cabins Motor Court, sitting adjacent to the ticket office on Blue Star Highway. This run-down motor lodge – with its open garage stalls that housed guests’ Model Ts – was used as a set in the 1920s-era movie Road to Perdition. Starring Tom Hanks and Paul Newman, this 2001 movie featured a couple local scenes – including a cottage that was constructed (and later torn down) along the beach. www.saugatuckduneride.com | 269-857-2253

Windmill Island
The picturesque setting of Windmill Island & Gardens has been the backdrop for a couple films in recent years.

Holland-born and -raised Hopwood DePree (co-founder of Saugatuck’s Waterfront Film Festival, founder and CEO of TicTock Studios and appointee to the Michigan Film Office Advisory Council) wrote, directed and produced “The Last Big Attraction” which was filmed here in 1999. The film even received one nomination at the Hamptons international Film Festival and won three awards at the Newport International Film Festival. In the movie, Hopwood played Leed VanderWal – a young man poised to assume a key role in his family’s dynasty by inheriting the internationally-recognized tourist attraction – Windmill Island.

Most recently, in 2010, Windmill Island was a primary filming location for the movie, Return of the Hiding Place (which also filmed at Dutch Village). In several scenes in the movie, the authentic 250-year-old DeZwaan Windmill can be seen standing guard over the tulip farms that stretch out along the grassy lawn. The trailer for the movie can be seen online at www.hide-movie.com; the film is due out in 2011. www.cityofholland.com/windmillislandgardens | 616-355-1030

Holland & Saugatuck Lakeshore Attractions Group
www.HollandAttractions.com
www.facebook.com/HollandSaugatuckLakeshoreAttractions

Spring Arrives Along Lake Michigan Shoreline

In West Michigan, the truest sign of spring is the blossoming of tulips in Holland – just in time for the annual Tulip Time Festival, May 7-14. In addition to the 4.4 million tulips, the area is home to acres of fragrant apple, cherry and peach orchards. Vineyards stretch out along the rolling hillsides and colorful wildflowers dot sugar-sand beaches along the Lake Michigan coastline. You can even find the flavors of spring – and summer – in the form of locally crafted wine and beer. You are invited to celebrate the arrival of spring and all its natural wonders at these seven shoreline attractions:

Crane’s Pie Pantry
Blossoms are blooming throughout the orchards at Crane’s Pie Pantry (6054 124th Avenue (M89), Fennville). Stop out this month and pick up a map which identifies the trees, and walk the orchards which are full of fragrance this time of year. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of your visit (then consider entering the photos in the “Picture Yourself in Allegan County Photo Contest”). The walking tour is free but you must check in first at the Pie Pantry. Sorry, no pets. www.cranespiepantry.com |269-561-2297

Fenn Valley
Join Chef Christine Ferris for a Girls Afternoon out, May 14, as she demonstrates “Cutting the Cheese.” Everything you need to know about selecting, storing and cooking with cheese will be covered. Following the demonstration, participants will enjoy a brunch paired with assorted wines – including the new 2010 releases. Cost is $30 per person. Reservations are required. Winemaker cellar tours are offered at 3pm every Saturday (excluding 6/25) – providing a chance for you to taste from the barrels and tanks as you learn what makes Fenn Valley wines unique. Cost is $8 per person and includes a logo wine glass and $5 coupon. Reservations encouraged. Also, save the date for the Fenn Valley Wine Fest, June 25 (1-5pm), with great wines, tasty ethnic foods, a barrel aging demonstration and music by Natches Trace. Cost is $8 for adults. No reservations required. www.fennvalley.com | 269-561-2396

Dutch Village
Spring rings back a new bunch of animals at Nelis’ Dutch Village. The petting area has featured goats, rabbits, baby chicks and a llama named “Mr. T.” for the past few years, but 2011 brings mini animals to Dutch Village! “Taking a Goat for a Walk” has been one o the most popular attractions for the past two years, and should be again this year. This year’s new animal assortment includes mini pigs (under 12 inches tall), a mini cow, a mini mama horse and her baby and eight mini goats. All the miniature animals are brought in from a special hobby farm in Illinois called the Ahrens Hobby Farm. www.dutchvillage.com | 616-396-1475

New Holland Brewing
Tis the Saison! Or “season” as it translates, tne Holland Brewing Co.’s spring/summer brew, Golden Cap Saison, is currently available at the pub and on retailer shelves throughout the state. A modern interpretation of a traditional farmhouse ale, Golden cap is a soft, pale beer that embodies the flavors and aromas of summer fields. This brew was just awarded a Silver medal at the World Expo of Beer competition in Frankenmuth. In time for Cinco de may, it’s the el Mole Ocho: Mole’ inspired Ale – the spiciest addition to New Holland’s High Gravity family. This beer encompasses the brewer’s exploration into the flavors of mole – the legendary sauce of Central Mexico. El Mole Ocho features malty aroma and a rich, cocoa-laden body, laced with an invigorating tinge of dried chilies and coffee. It’s available in 22-ounce bottles or on tap at the pub. Of course, Tulip Time Festival wouldn’t be complete without New Holland’s Red Tulip Ale and Black Tulip Ale. Red Tulip Ale is brewed in homage to the festival, evoking spring’s renewing spirit. It’s available exclusively at the pub this year. While at the pub, be sure to ask your server or bartender about the selection of Library Beers, including vintage 2005 and 2006 Black Tulip. www.newhollandbrew.com | 616-335-6422

Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruises
Explore the Kalamazoo River aboard an authentic sternwheel paddleboat, and view the arrival of spring along the riverbank. Bring your binoculars and camera to observe the birds, water fowl and other animals in their natural environment. The shoreline is peppered with color as the spring wildflowers make their appearance for the season. Trips will be offered at 1pm and 3pm on May 18 and 19. Then, coming up Thursday, May 26 take part in the “Marga-Relay-Ville” Relay for Life fundraiser from 7-9pm. Cost is $30 per person or 2 for $50. The evening will include games, snacks and a cash bar. Then, on Friday, June 24, make reservations for the extended cruise from 7-10pm with live music, a picnic lunch and cash bar. Seating is limited and reservations are required. www.saugatuckboatcruises.com | 269-857-4261

Saugatuck Dune Rides
Explore the Lake Michigan shore sand dunes like never before, with Saugatuck Dune Rides – in celebration of their 30th anniversary! Feel the wind in your hair as you travel out near the site of the former town of Singapore – dubbed Michigan’s Pompeii, as it is buried under the sands. Along the foredunes (the first ridge behind the beach) you’ll see beautiful clusters of yellow harry puccoon, the common milkweed, beach pea, sand cress, smooth rose, bearberry, wild grape, sand cherry and Pitcher’s Thistle (a Federally-threatened wildflower) growing proudly. Migratory birds, such as the Prairie Warbler (Michigan endangered), Eastern Kingbird, Brown Thrasher, Field Sparrow and the Northern Harrier (a migratory raptor listed on the Michigan special concern list), are often seen. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the dunes and all its natural residents! www.saugatuckduneride.com | 269-857-2253

Windmill Island
The focal point of this beautiful oasis on the edge of downtown is the 249 year old working Dutch windmill "De Zwaan" (meaning graceful bird). The windmill, which reaches 125 feet from the ground to the top of the blades, towers over 36 acres of manicured gardens, dikes, canals and picnic areas. Spring has exploded on Windmill Island, as more than 150,000 tulips have come into bloom. In the summer, annual plants and flowers decorate the grounds in a sea of color. A visit this premier destination includes old-time Klompen dance performed by girls dressed in folk costumes and wooden shoes; an antique Dutch carousel, featuring hand-carved and painted wooden horses; and the miniature Netherlands Village made by the early settlers. While you’re here, listen to the antique Amsterdam street organ and learn how it works, sample world-famous fudge made with real Dutch cocoa and stop by the souvenir shop for some mementos of your visit, including stone-ground flour from the windmill. www.cityofholland.com/windmillislandgardens | 616-355-1030

Holland & Saugatuck Lakeshore Attractions Group
www.HollandAttractions.com
www.facebook.com/HollandSaugatuckLakeshoreAttractions

Salt of the Earth in Fennville Launches Michigan Wine & Beer Dinner Series

West Michigan’s hottest new restaurant, Salt of the Earth, announces a four-month Michigan Wine & Beer Dinner Series at its downtown Fennville rustic American eatery.

On eight different nights from January through April, Executive Chef Matthew Pietsch will create fabulous multi-course dinners. Prepared using local ingredients and paired with the wines and craft beers from the respective wineries and breweries, each evening will be a true celebration of the region. Each dinner will be a truly unique experience, with themes to bring out the best in each respective winery and brewery style, designed to bring guests together around great food and award-winning Michigan wines and beers.

The wine dinners will be held on the second Wednesday of each month, while the beer dinners are scheduled for the fourth Thursday of each month. The schedule for 2010 includes:

January

• 13th Fenn Valley Vineyards (www.FennValley.com)
• 28th New Holland Brewing Company (www.NewHollandBrew.com)

February

• 10th Shady Lane Cellars (www.ShadyLaneCellars.com)
• 25th Saugatuck Brewing (www.SaugatuckBrewing.com)

March

• 10th Wyncroft Wines (www.WyncroftWine.com)
• 25th Arcadia Ales (www.ArcadiaAles.com)

April

• 14th Brys Estate (www.BrysEstate.com)
• 22nd Bell’s Brewery (www.BellsBeer.com)

Space for each dinner is limited to 40 people, and reservations are required by calling 269-561-SALT (7258). The cost for each dining experience is only $55 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Each dinner starts at 7pm and is expected to last approximately two hours.

-end-

Salt of the Earth is a rustic American eatery and bakery, tucked away in quaint downtown Fennville – in the heart of the Southwest Michigan’s thriving agricultural region. Under the direction of Chef Matthew Pietsch (protégé of ‘Iron Chef’ Michael Symon), this full service restaurant offers a seasonal menu of house-made entrees, shared plates, wood-fired oven pizzas, pastas, sandwiches and creative desserts – using fresh ingredients, sourced locally whenever possible. The bakery café features pastries, artisan breads, coffee and espresso drinks, lunch offerings and free wi-fi for their guests. You’ll also find a bar stocked with spirits, and an impressive selection of Michigan wines and craft beers. Seasonal wine and beer dinners are also held throughout the year. Featuring an attractive warm and homey décor, paired with a chic and modern menu, Salt of the Earth is also a popular venue for local and regional musical artists, with live music every Friday evening. House concerts are held on selected Sunday evenings as well.

Salt of the Earth
114 East Main Street
Fennville MI 49408
269.561.SALT (7258)
info@saltoftheearthfennville.com
www.saltoftheearthfennville.com

Porkapalooza Invitational Cookout & Music Festival Celebrates the Bounty of the Great Lakes

A day-long celebration of hog-proportion once again takes over the 14-acre Red Horse Ranch in Fennville on Saturday, October 3. The PORKAPALOOZA Invitational Cookout & Music Festival is a farm party and harvest celebration, running from Noon to Midnight (rain or shine), showcasing the bounty of the Great Lakes’ in terms of food, drink, music, art and land. Red Horse Ranch is located just outside of downtown Fennville, on 62nd Street, ¾ of a mile south of M89.

The Invitational Cookout portion of the festival features well-known chefs from throughout the Great Lakes Region, including:
• Chef Chris Pandel from The Bristol, Chicago
• Chef Matt Pietsch from Salt of the Earth, Fennville
• Chef Rob Hammond from Food Dance Café, Kalamazoo
• Chef Matthew Millar from New Holland Brewing Co., Holland
• Chef Chad Miller from Restaurant Bloom, Grand Rapids
• Chef Brian Perrone from Slows Bar BQ, Detroit

“These chefs were hand-selected to compete in the PORKAPALOOZA Invitational Cookout because they share a common interest in the pursuit of culinary quality and a belief in championing local, sustainable lifestyles,” says Fred Bueltmann, Beervangelist at New Holland Brewing.

Each restaurant is asked to showcase at least one primary pork dish, as well as two regionally-influenced side dishes providing sourcing information that demonstrates the technique and provenance of their food.

The event will shine a light on some of the areas treasures, including not only the products available, but the creative energy of many local artisans and musicians. Well over 1000 people are expected to attend and organizers proudly practice earth-friendly ideals, showcasing the realities of sustainable living and entertaining.

Local beers and wines from New Holland Brewing Company and Fenn Valley Winery will make for pleasant pork pairings. New Holland will present Charkoota Rye – a smoked rye dopplebock brewed to celebrate PORKAPALOOZA and the art of charcuterie. They will bring a host of other beers including the autumn favorite Ichabod Pumpkin Ale, as well as Mad Hatter IPA, Full Circle, The Poet Oatmeal Stout and Dragon’s Milk barrel-aged ale. Fenn Valley, which is located adjacent to the fest site, will serve a selection of their favorite award-winning red and white wines.

Throughout the day, an impressive back-to-back line-up of entertainment will keep the toes tapping, including:
• Various David Teske
• 1:00pm Dave Boutette
• 2:00pm Delilah DeWylde & The Lost Boys
• 3:00pm HOG CALLING COMPETITION
• 3:30pm Ben Bueltmann & Pontchatrain
• 4:30pm Mark Duval & Two Track Mind
• 6:30pm Mountain Men
• 8:00pm Midtown Underground

Blankets, chairs and water coolers are welcome. The event is held in a grass field, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Guests are not allowed to bring food or alcohol into the event. All ages are welcome, but guests 21 and older will need to show ID to receive a wristband to consume alcohol. Special activities are also planned for the younger attendees.

Tickets are available now for PORKAPALOOZA and are $8 per person in advance ($12 the day of) with parking at $5 per car. Admission includes access to the unlimited live entertainment. Food and beverages are sold separately. Admission tickets are available online at http://pork.newhollandbrew.com or by visiting New Holland Brewing and other vendors to be listed on the website.

For more information about PORKAPALOOZA, contact New Holland Brewing at 616-355-NHBC.

Robinette Cellars Releases Award-Winning Cyser

(GRAND RAPIDS, Mich) – Robinette Cellars, which introduced its first wine in January of 2006, has recently released its newest product. With a 12% alcohol content, Robinette’s Cyser is made with 76% apple cider, 20% apple blossom honey and 2% each of dates and raisins, for a sweet finish.

In late 2007, the Robinette Cyser was entered in the open category in 2007 in the Great Lakes Olde World Syder (GLOWS) competition, where it received a Bronze ranking. It is one of 13 wines available at Robinette’s tasting room at 3142 4-Mile Road NE in Grand Rapids and the third to be made on-site by winemaker Bill Robinette.

The first product to be created entirely at Robinette’s was Barzilla Brew – a hard apple cider named after farm founder Barzilla Robinette. This dry cider, made with estate-grown fruit, received a Bronze ranking at the 2007 GLOWS competition and has become Robinette’s signature product. The next made-on-premise product, a Dessert Apple Wine, is made with apple brandy to provide a 17% alcohol content. This wine received a Silver ranking at the 2007 GLOWS competition.

A selection of 10 dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet and sweet wines – all made with Michigan fruits – are crafted by award-winning winemakers throughout the state.

Robinette’s newest product, a semi-sweet Cherry Mead, is being barrel-aged on-site and will be released in 2009. Mead is a fermented alcoholic beverage made of honey, water and yeast – also colloquially known as “honey wine.”

Visitors to Robinette Cellars pay $3 per person or $5 per couple for a souvenir wine glass and samples of six of their local wines. The glass can be brought back on future visits for free tastings.

Founded in 1911, Robinette’s is a 5th generation, 125-acre year-round agricultural destination in northern Kent County. In addition to the orchard and winery, Robinette’s offers a cider mill, farm market, horse-drawn wagon rides, mountain biking & cross country ski trails, bakery and full lunch menu. The 1800s Gift Barn features made in Michigan products, such as food items and fine art, as well as holiday decorations, floral arrangements and custom-packaged gift boxes.

Robinette’s holds memberships in the Michigan Apple Committee, Michigan Cider Makers Guild, Michigan State Horticultural Society, Kent Harvest Trails, Great Lakes Cider & Perry Association, Local First and West Michigan Tourist Association.

For hours, activities and more information, visit www.robinettes.com

MEDIA CONTACT:
Contact: Alicia Robinette
616-361-7180 / 800-400-8100
thebigapple@comcast.net

Porkapalooza – An All Day Local Farm & Harvest Celebration Encourages Everyone to “Save Gas, Eat Pork”

(FENNVILLE, Mich) – A day-long celebration of hog-proportion called PORKAPALOOZA is planned for Saturday, October 4, rain or shine. The farm party and harvest celebration, touting the eco-friendly slogan “Save Gas, Eat Pork,” will benefit The Saugatuck Dunes Coastal Alliance. The SDCA will also provide volunteers and expertise to this already green-minded effort.

Local restaurants, Journeyman Café & Rye, are joining forces with New Holland Brewing Company and Fenn Valley Vineyard & Winery to host the event at the 14-acre Red Horse Ranch, located just outside of downtown Fennville, on 62nd Street, ¾ of a mile south of M89. The event, which runs from Noon to Midnight, will feature all things local – live music, pork, produce, beer and wine.

“Those of us involved in PORKAPALOOZA share common ground in our pursuit of quality and our belief in championing local, sustainable lifestyles,” says Fred Bueltmann, Beervangalist at New Holland Brewing. “The event will shine a light on some of the areas treasures, including not only the products available, but the creative energy of many local artisans and musicians. Hosting an 800-plus person event, while sticking to earth-friendly ideals, will showcase some of the realities around sustainable living.”

PORKAPALOOZA attendees will live high on the hog throughout the day, with an on-going menu of pork products from Creswick Farms and Providence Farms including pulled pork on Journeyman sandwich bread with homemade Memphis-style barbecue, homemade bratwurst and sausage, Michigan-made whole grain mustard, corn on the cob, fresh homemade sides, fresh fried chips from Visser Farm potatoes, kosher dill pickles, and for the non-meat lovers, Joel’s famous barbecued tofu, made with China Rose tofu of Ann Arbor. For the sweet tooth, Michigan apples dunked in caramel and scattered with bacon brittle, complete the menu.

Throughout the afternoon, Journeyman Chef Matthew Millar will demonstrate traditional and innovative techniques in preparation for three feature pig presentations: The Eastern American Barbecue & Smokehouse at 2 pm, Luau Pig at 5 pm and La Caja China at 8 pm. Portions of the feature presentations are limited and may be purchased in advance.

2 pm – Eastern American Barbecue & Smokehouse: Sample the lesser know Carolina and Appalachian style barbecue. Pork shoulder, ribs and loin will be hot smoked and “mopped” with a tangy vinegar and mustard sauce, foregoing tomatoes. Served with skillet cornbread, kohlrabi & apple slaw with a traditional Southern boiled dressing, and baked beans with Tennessee air dried ham.

5 pm – Luau Pig: Inspired by the Hawaiian tradition, a pig is buried in a pit of hot stones. A few days before, a team of men will dig a coffin-sized hole in the ground and line it with field stones. Early Porkapalooza morning, a very large and dangerous fire will be built in said hole and when it has burned down to coals, the men will lower a 75 pound hog – wrapped in banana leaves and burlap – and bury it under about three feet of earth. After several hours, a tender luau pig will emerge, served with gingered sweet potatoes and pineapple sticky rice.

8 pm – La Caja China: “Pig in a Coffin” is a Cuban preparation, roasting the pig inside a wooden box. A Cuban native watched the Chinese who came to the island to help build the railroads cook their lunch in large, metal lined wood boxes topped with a bed of coals. After just a few short hours, a juicy, perfectly cooked pig would emerge with impossibly crispy skin. Enough said. Our Providence Farm pig will be marinated in garlic mojo and served with roasted pumpkin and raw sweet onions in oil and vinegar.

Local beers and wines from New Holland Brewing Company and Fenn Valley Winery will make for pleasant pork pairings. New Holland will debut Charkoota Rye – a smoked rye dopplebock brewed to celebrate PORKAPALOOZA and the art of charcuterie. They will bring a host of other beers including Mad Hatter IPA, Full Circle Kolsch, Ichabod Pumpkin Ale, The Poet Oatmeal Stout and Dragon’s Milk barrel-aged ale. Fenn Valley, which is located adjacent to the fest site, will serve a selection of their favorite award-winning red and white wines.

Throughout the day, back-to-back entertainment will keep the toes tapping, including:

Ben Bueltmann
Dave Boutette
Dunuya
Funktion
Jen Sygit & Tahmineh Gueramy
Los Bandits de Michigan
Mark Duval & Two Track Mind
Mississippi Gabe Carter
Singapore Valley Drifters
Who Hit John

Blankets, chairs and water coolers are welcome. The event is held in a grass field, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Guests are not allowed to bring food or alcohol into the event. All ages are welcome, but guests 21 and older will need to show ID to receive a wristband to consume alcohol. Special activities are also planned for the younger attendees.

Admission to PORKAPALOOZA is $25 per carload in advance ($40 day of) or $10 per walk / ride up, and includes access to the unlimited live entertainment. Food and beverages are sold separately. Admission tickets are available online at www.SaveGasEatPork.com, or by visiting Journeymen/Rye, New Holland Brewing, Fenn Valley Vineyard or People’s Food Co-Op of Kalamazoo.

www.SaveGasEatPork.com

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Fred Bueltmann - Beervangelist & Partner
New Holland Brewing Company
616-510-2255
Fred@newhollandbrew.com

Michelle Shaw - Journeyman Café & Rye
269-218-3748
michelleshaw@ymail.com

New Holland Brewing to Celebrate 25 Employees Earning National "Certified Beer Server" Status With Special Cicerone Seminars & Dinner

(HOLLAND, Mich) – Twenty employees at New Holland Brewing Company in Holland have recently been awarded “Certified Beer Server” status and the brewery is shooting for a total of 25 by Labor Day – a mark no other brewpub or microbrewery in the country can claim. This endorsement is the first in a the three-phase Cicerone Certification Program, operated by national beer master Ray Daniels. It is the brewing industry’s equivalent to a certified wine Sommelier.

“The Cicerone program is important because it recognizes and encourages expertise,” says New Holland Beervangalist, Fred Bueltmann. “Craft beer drinkers seek a complete quality experience along with their craft beer, and Cicerone will help them know where to find it.”

To help celebrate this accomplishment, the partners at New Holland have invited Daniels to host a day of Cicerone activities – including seminars and a beer dinner –on Wednesday, September 24.

The day kicks off at Noon with Brewhouse Tours of New Holland’s 23,000-square-foot production facility with brewmaster, John Haggerty.

An “Introduction to Cicerone” will be offered from 1-2pm. During this session, one will learn the basics of how to become a Certified Beer Server. The program includes a review of basic beer serving know-how, what it means to become certified and how to take the exam.

From 3-4pm, it’s “Preparing for the Certified Cicerone Exam,” where Ray discusses and reviews the topics included on the advanced exam. He will also present a sample-version of the blind-tasting portion included in the Certified Cicerone Exam.

“Too often, great beer is harmed by improper service practices,” Daniels says. “Our program offers independent assessment and certification so that industry professionals – as well as consumers – can be sure of the knowledge and skills possessed by current and prospective beer servers. The more beer professionals understand about the many aspects of beer culture and service, the better beer will be for consumers.”

There is no charge for the seminars, but reservations are required by logging onto http://signup.newhollandbrew.com or by calling 616-510-2259. Space is limited to 20 individuals.

“Anyone can call themselves an expert on beer,” says Daniels. “But when consumers want great beer, they need help from a server who really knows beer flavors, styles and brands. Those with the title of ‘Certified Cicerone’ or ‘Master Cicerone’ have demonstrated their expertise in selecting and serving fine beer.”

Later than evening, a New Holland Beer Cicerone Dinner will be held at the acclaimed Journeyman Café in Fennville. This specially prepared dinner accentuates the marriage of beer’s flavors with local, hand-made cuisine and is a celebration of the accomplishment of the brewery’s staff. An additional 25 seats are open to the public, at $65 each.

The evening – touted a hedonistic, culinary adventure – features pairings and discussions by Ray Daniels, restaurant owners Amy Cook & Chef Matt Millar, and several New Holland representatives including Brett VanderKamp, founder; John Haggerty, brewmaster; and Fred Bueltmann, beervangelist.

Menu offerings include a fine selection of mouth-watering delicacies. The evening kicks off with a reception featuring parmesan gourgeres with Kathy Halinsky chevre & chive and salt cod, garlic & Binje potato fritters, paired with Full Circle.

The main entrees include shellfish ragout with Boeve Farm leeks, lemon thyme and sweet cream, paired with Golden Cap; Pumpkin agnolotti in parmesan broth with pumpkin seeds, brown butter, sage & Styrian pumpkin seed oil, paired with Ichabod; and blackberry glazed breast of smoked magret duck with braised lacinato kale & caramelized shallots and duck liver & balsamic vinaigrette, paired with Blue Sunday.

The dessert flight features dulche de leche custard with muscavado caramel, paired with Pilgrim’s Dole; tobacco chocolate truffle, paired with Dragon’s Milk; black walnut & olive oil cake with fall berries and maple crème fraiche, paired with Black Tulip; and goredawnzola blue cheese with Hasselman’s honeycomb, paired with Existential.

Ray Daniels is an author, editor and publisher of more than a dozen books on brewing and beer. He is graduate and senior faculty member at the Siebel Institute of Technology, is an internationally-known beer judge and organizer of scores of beer tasting events, including Chicago’s Real Ale Festival. Daniels is also past director of the Brewers Association Craft Beer Marketing Program.

New Holland Brewing is located at 66 E. 8th Street, Holland. Find them online at www.newhollandbrew.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Fred Bueltmann, Beervangalist & Partner
New Holland Brewing
fred@newhollandbrew.com
616-283-6634