Q - Are there any specific goals the guild has for SBW this year? The future?

A - I think the goal for the SBW this year is to continue highlighting the hard work and great beers to be had throughout the Sacramento area.

Q - In regards to Track 7, I am impressed (but also disappointed because I can't go) by the IPA invitational. How did that event come about? Are tickets sold out? Anything you're personally looking forward to trying at the invitational?

A - Thanks for the compliment. The idea came about in conversation with Dave Gull (New Helvetia) and AJ Tendick (Bike Dog). We were talking about the need for an event separate from the current festivals that was intended to introduce Sacramento to a number of breweries not typically found in the region. Part of the philosophy is that hopefully these breweries each go back impressed by the quality of beer to be had in the region. The other part is to thank the many passionate Sacramento beer enthusiasts, and introduce them to breweries they otherwise would not easily drink. As for tickets, we are almost sold out at this point. The event will certainly sell out in advance of the event, so I wouldn't wait. I think we have about 100 more to go. I'm looking forward to the brewery fellowship competition component of the event. We really are fortunate to work with so many great breweries.

Q - Is Track 7 doing any collaboration brews for SBW?

A - We are doing a couple restaurant collaborations - LowBrau and Pangaea - as well as a collaboration with Device. I think that after three years in a row, it’s kinda become our beer week tradition. Plus Ken is awesome and really easy to work with. We are also helping Peter Hoey recreate the old Sacramento Brewing Co. Russian Imperial Stout.

Q - Any other SBW events you'd like to get the word out about?

A - There are so many great events throughout Sacramento. They can all be found at the Sacramento Beer Week website. For us, we are doing a total tap-takeover at Final Gravity Roseville. I'm pretty impressed. Twenty-six handles, one nitro handle and a cask. I didn't think we made that much beer. Cheers!

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