MONROE — The Monroe Balloon & Blues Festival is known for hot air, hot blues and cool brews. Making their debut at this year’s event on June 14 and 15 are two new beverages infused with the classic flavors of summers in Wisconsin.
The beer stand at the festival is managed by Mike Jerge, a local screen printer by trade who has a passion for helping out with local events. A number of years ago, he purchased a beer trailer which has been used under his guidance by various nonprofit groups. Whether it’s The Arc of Green County, Main Street Monroe, Family Promise, or some other non-profit organization he’s helping out by organizing beer and wine sales, Jerge is always looking for new ideas and ways to improve profitability.
When the beer distributor told Jerge about their new fermented whiskey, he wondered how it would be in an old fashioned. In the traditional style all over the state, Jerge’s fermented whiskey old fashioned starts off with muddled cherry and orange. Those who have sampled the drink declare it to be light, refreshing and authentic.
The success of the Old Fashioned led to experimentation with fermented tequila. Jerge likes to say that the recipe for his lime margarita on the rocks was perfected while tailgating at a Jimmy Buffet concert. There’s a splash of this and that and some agave nectar. And the long lost shaker of salt? Jerge found it, and will salt the rim and finish things off with a slice of lime.
Festivalgoers who prefer beer will find a number of Wisconsin brews on tap -- from Monroe, New Glarus, Milwaukee and Chippewa Falls. As in the past, wine will also be available.
The Monroe Balloon and Blues Festival is presented by The Arc of Green County. Their mission is to assist individuals with disabilities by enhancing educational opportunities and providing resources for independent living, experiences and enjoyment.
Admission to the Green County Fairgrounds, 2600 10th Street, is free, with parking onsite for a nominal fee. Street parking is available around the grounds. There is plenty of seating in the grandstand to watch the balloon glows, but bring lawn chairs and blankets to set up in and around the blues tent stage. Proceeds from sales of beverages at the stand will go toward projects and causes of The Arc. Tip jars for The Arc at the beer stand will also be available.
For the latest schedule of weekend events at Monroe Balloon & Blues including the Classic Cruse-In Car Show, craft show, helicopter and pony rides, visit monroeballoonrally.com, or follow Balloon Rally on Facebook.
