Vendors Debuting Drinks at St. Cloud Craft Beer Tour

(KNSI) – Back Shed Brewing is previewing what the company is bringing to the St. Cloud Craft Beer Tour.

Head Brewer Chris Simonsen says one of the selections is a brand-new offering, influenced by a Zagnut bar.

“It’s based on a candy bar. That is going to be coconut — toasted coconut and a little bit of vanilla, a little bit of marshmallow and peanut butter and it’s going to be put into a porter. So that’ll be a fun new one we’ve never done before.”

Simonsen says Back Shed is constantly trying something different and inspiration comes from some unconventional places. He meets with co-owners Scott and Jason Schlecht each week to set the course for the days ahead.

Scott says it’s been a wild ride since he and his brother Jason began working with Chris to make their own drinks behind Crafts Direct in Waite Park. Since then, the business has taken off and community is a huge part of its success.

“Some of my biggest surprises have just been demand for event space. When we first started, I mean we had no idea. A lot of that we’re figuring it out but it’s just fun to see groups come in, parties and that kind of stuff, and just a great place to hang,” says Scott.

To meet with the three directly and form a bond, take advantage of the VIP hour starting at 1:00 p.m. at the River’s Edge Convention Center. General admission runs from 2:00 to 5:00.

The Honey Badgers will be on stage at the brewery Saturday night at 7:00, located at 624 Sundial Drive.

The St. Cloud Craft Beer Tour is hosted by Leighton Events, with proceeds benefitting the Nicholas P. Koenig Foundation. Other craft beer events are held throughout the year in Alexandria, Detroit Lakes, East Grand Forks, Fergus Falls, and Winona. VIP tickets this weekend are $75. General Admission passes are $40.

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