When the weather forecast called of rain on March 8th I was a bit worried – “Isn’t that the weekend of Sabroso?”. Lucky for us, the clouds parted and the sun shined through luminously on sandy Doheny Beach. Thousands of eager festival goers lined up to get into Sabroso wearing their best taco and craft beer threads.
Previous years Brew Ha Ha Productions has held it’s famed Sabroso Taco and Craft Beer Festival at picturesque Lake View Park in Silverado Canyon – this year it’s moved to Doheny State Beach in Dana Point. Over the years Sabroso has grown to become a crowd favorite amongst the locals. Though the last few years have had a more quiet, intimate vibe, this year’s festival took it to the next level – while still holding fast the core of what Sabroso is really about: Tacos, Craft Beer, Lucha Libre, and Great Music.
Performances by Metalachi, Unwritten Law, Long Beach rock band Rival Sons, Fullerton rock band Lit, Canadian pop/rock quintet Sum 41 and the ever so colorful Offspring brought back nostalgia while strumming rock melodies over the crowd.
Highlights
TAPS Fish House & Brewery – Irvine, Brea & Corona
Posideon – 10% ABV
A hearty unfiltered west cost style double IPA. This beer was perfect for a day at the beach while enjoying costal breeze. Bright with notes of citrus, pine and succulent pineapple shine through like sunny rays on Doheny Beach.
Barley Forge Brewing – Costa Mesa
El Técnico with Thunderking Cold Brew Coffee – 5.7% ABV
Brewmaster Kevin Buckley’s amber ale El Técnico – made with Thunderking cold brew coffee – stood out as a highlight. This vibrant malty amber, brewed with agave extract, is brought to a new level with roasty notes of bold coffee. Roasted coffee notes elevate the rich back bone from UK grains join up for a rich unique drinking experience. Mild notes of black mission fig linger on the finish.
Breakwater Brewing – Oceanside
Rasbiscus Mead – 9.6% ABV
A beautiful honey wine brewed with plethora of fresh raspberries and hibiscus flowers. Tart. Sweet. Decadent. This colorful red mead is gives off a delicate citrus-like flavor with a inviting floral aroma. Its finish is dry, hoppy, sweet and warming.
Check out Brew Ha Ha Productions next summer event!
