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Beer Tasting Holiday Event in Chicago

Strangford Lough of Illinois and Iowa presented two of their Irish Ales from Strangford Lough Brewing Company of Ireland at Bon V in Chicago on Friday, December 18th for a tasting night to obtain feedback from men and women from Chicago, ahead of the launch of both beers in January 2010.

It was another great night for St. Patrick’s Best and Legbiter fans with over 250 people in attendance from many different business areas including marketing, networking, travel services, social services and many more.  The audience was split in their decision of which was their favorite, the stronger, golden bodied Legbiter was preferred by almost all the women in attendance, while St Patrick’s Best, the light earthy, session bitter won the hearts of nearly two thirds of the men.

Mr. Stoyan Zavalov, President of Strangford Lough of Illinois and Iowa was in attendance to answer questions regarding the company and its products.  The two ale’s presented are suited to very different tastes, in fact the whole SLBC range is designed so that whatever your taste, there is a beer to suit you.
While some enjoyed the “fresh and fruity” flavor of Legbiter, others preferred the ‘caramel finish’ of St.Patrick’s Best.  Stoyan commented “There is something unmistakable in our products – superior, rich, authentic flavor, which makes them high end beers.  ”After tasting, people were certainly agreeing that these are “high end” ales, with “very specific flavor, not found in the current market”, while “refreshing for a beer of its strength”.  Mr. Zavalov was also delighted to tell everyone that the beer will be available in Illinois and Iowa during the last week of January 2010. 

A number of comments were also made on the differences between SLBC’s beers, other than the unmatched flavor, everyone seemed to respond very well to the imagery on the labels and there was a keen interest in the history associated with St Patrick and Legbiter.
Marcy from Windy City Travel commented on Legbiter Ale, “The beer was flavorful, not too bitter tasting and didn’t give me that “full” feeling.  I don’t normally drink beer but I would definitely drink Legbiter again.”

They are now looking to their next project which will be the largest Irish bar directory in the World.  www.irishbeerfinder.com will allow thirsty men and women across North America find their nearest Irish beer.  The project is due to be launched at the beginning of next year to coincide with the launch of their two Irish Ales. SLBC of Illinois and Iowa are already getting ready for their next tasting event, planned to be held at the Irish American Heritage Centre in Chicago and Galway Bay, Chicago.  Dates will be announced on the company website www.slbc.ie.

We are keen to hear more from you and answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to contact Stoyan Zavalov at: stoyanz@illinois.slbc.ie

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