Tastemakers: Perry Hotel/Timber Ridge Resort Microbrew Color Tour

Sept. 21, 2008

Perry Hotel

In previous Tastemakers I have written about Stafford’s as a company that has helped to raise the culinary excellence standard in Northern Michigan. I am always thrilled when I am invited to attend an event at one of their properties from Charlevoix to Harbor Springs. Stafford’s Hospitality purchased the Perry Hotel in 1989, saving it from the disaster created by Chicago stockbroker Art Curry (see our editorial archives on Art Curry) who bankrupted the operation.
Since taking it over, Stafford’s has restored the Perry Hotel to its rightful place as the “heart and soul” of Petoskey. The hotel was built in 1899 and has played a major role in the development of the community.
Dining at the Perry is a great experience, whether taking the casual option in the Noggin Room or enjoying the views and fine dining menu of the H.O. Rose Dining Room. Be sure to try the Stafford’s Seafood Chowder and the Lamb Chops when at the H.O. Rose. The Noggin Room often has entertainment and the Whitefish Stack on sourdough is a must.
For additional information about the Perry Hotel or the other Stafford properties in Northern Michigan check out staffords.com

Timber Ridge Resort
Microbrew Color Tour

The owners of Timber Ridge Resort (southeast of Traverse City) have been strong supporters of the Michigan microbrewed beers. Their popular Suds & Snow event at the end of winter now has more than 700 participants snowshoeing and enjoying the best Michigan has to offer in craftbrews. In keeping with their love of Michigan micros, they are introducing a new event - the Microbrew Color Tour. The event will take place on September 26-28 with the primary tasting event on Saturday.
“The concept of pairing the outdoors with beer tasting is attractive to both outdoor and microbrew aficionados. These groups seem to have quite a bit in common,” said Sara Klebba, marketing and events director. While the Suds & Snow event is open to the public, the Microbrew Color Tour is open only to those staying on property. Now Timber Ridge has put together some pretty lucrative packages for the weekend, and for as little as $78, a couple is able to camp for two nights, enjoy the Friday night welcome reception and receive admittance to the Saturday microbrew tent from 3 to 7 p.m. A group of 10, for $50.00 a person, could rent the bunkhouse (kitchenette/private bathroom) for the weekend and receive the same weekend amenities.
There are five breweries participating, and as of press time they are Arbor Brewing serving Tree Fort and Jackhammer, Founder’s will serve Red’s Rye and Dirty Bastard, New Holland is serving Zoomer Wheat Ale and Ichabod Pumpkin Ale, Right Brain is serving Distill My Heart Bourbon Stout and Karma Place IPA (made with locally grown hops), and Short’s will serve their Autumn Ale and Black Cherry Porter.
The tasting tent will also feature foods that pair well with beer (these will be sold ala carte). Timber Ridge has trails for hiking and mountain biking and they connect up with the VASA Trail and other state land trails. For additional details check out timberridgeresort.net or call them at (800) 909-2327.