If there is one event I look forward to every year, it’s hanging with the great folks at Victory Brewing for their annual company chili cook off. Eighteen teams from around the brewery staff battle it out for the best chili in Downingtown and the coveted peoples pepper.
Im amazed at the crowd that comes out to participate. Whether it’s the chili or the beer, Victory packs them in.
My fellow judges. This year I was joined by some new faces and some old. Cheers to the gals from The Town Dish, Mat Falco from Philly Beer Scene, Jared Littman from Philly Tap Finder, Bryan Kolesar from The Brew Lounge, Lou from Whiskey Advocate and Ken and Patty Knickerbocker from Vista Today.
Our fearless chili server Craig Raezer. In years past we usually have a bunch of different chili’s at once. This year we had one at a time which I found to be a little more seamless and kept things right on track.
A common site at the judging table.
We scrutinize every part of the chili from appearance to the flavor and even originality. Did you know a traditional chili does not have beans?
After tasting everything we have to hit the floor and judge on presentation. The names of the teams get better and better every year.
The teams go all out. The costumes, the displays, some really ham it up to win you over.
Although we do most of the judging. All Victory fans that come have a chance to vote on their favorite to win the peoples pepper.
In all it’s glory. The peoples pepper.
At the end of it all, someone has to add things up.
Your winners for 2015,Team 5, 4, 3, 2, yum. They literally counted down like that every time they served someone their chili. When it was all said in done, they one the hearts of all the Victory fans.
This event is such a blast! I keep saying it year after year but it truly is. Everything from the beer, to the chili and the gimmicks that go with them, make this gathering what it is. I would love to thank my fellow judges for punishing their guts with me and the staff at Victory for inviting me again. I can’t wait to come back next year and see what everyone has cooking for 2016.