Wine and brew festival adds new varieties

Warm temperatures and sunny skies at Village Green Park made the perfect combination for brew tasting at the fourth annual Sisters Wine & Brew Festival.

The weekend-long festival featured the creations of more than 30 breweries, wineries and distilleries, from Sisters' own Three Creeks Brewing Co. to small operations from across the region.

Event organizer Kim Gammond couldn't have been happier.

"This year we added more breweries and distilleries," said Gammond. "One of many new attractions this year is Atlas Hard Cider Co. We have quite a variety. People are happy because they can bring the whole family, including their dogs."

Folks took their time strolling around pleasing their taste buds.

Central Oregon singer Bobby Lindstrom started the ball rolling with his blues-influenced music in the gazebo.

Co-owner John Plutshack of Logsdon Organic Farmhouse Ales explained how they offer beers that are a little bit different.

"Our traditional farmhouse brewery is located on our 10-acre family farm in Hood River," said Plutshack. "We craft our organic beers inspired by the farmhouse breweries of Belgium as they were brewed centuries ago. It has a naturally rustic taste. We use hops and fruit from our farm."

The food booths were lined with people waiting for a bit to eat, from gourmet pizza to homemade giant dumplings filled with mouthwatering flavors.

The Redfield family was having a good time sipping wine.

"This is my first time here and I'm impressed," said Sisters local Carli Redfield.

"This is great representation from both beer and wines from the Northwest. It has been a great turnout and a wonderful event for Sisters," Sarah Redfield added.

Atlas Cider Co. owner Dan McCoy was excited about his first time at the festival.

"I am brand-new, located in Bend," said McCoy. "I think this region offers the best in beer and wine. That's what motivated me into making hard cider. My main goal is to make ciders from the fruits of the Northwest. We have access to the best berries."

The two main ciders right now are apple and cherry.

"The cider is essentially fermented like a wine. Then bottled and carbonated like a beer. It's a hybrid," added McCoy.

There were also booths filled with an eclectic blend of homemade crafts.

"This is our second year here and I find the people are extremely friendly," said Native Wine Rocks owner Troy Turner.

Native Wine Rocks was inspired by the beautiful and unique rocks of the Pacific Northwest. Each wine rack is distinctive natural stone.

"This is your wine's very own little cellar," says Turner.