If you’ve ever been to the Applejack Wine and Spirits parking lot during a summer Saturday, you know what a zoo it can be during the busy season.
So on the Thursday before Memorial Day, right before the summer begins in earnest, the liquor store threw a kickoff party to welcome the season.
“We’ve got multiple tastings going on throughout the store for people,” said Elizabeth Gregg, general manager of Applejack, 3320 Youngfield St. “The summer is definitely our busiest time, especially since we’re right off Interstate 70.”
Visitors were able to sample a variety of spirits from about 30 vendors, including popular summer drinks like a Moscow Mule or margaritas, and wines like Josh Cellars’ cabernet.
“This is a fun way for us to let people know what kind of drinks are out there,” said employee Taylor Butel between pours. “We just want our customers to know what’s going on.”
A brief summer storm at first made venturing outside to some of the food trucks parked in the lot a dicey proposition. Fortunately, the rain cleared and so diners were able to decide between pizza, sandwiches, and beer can chicken, cooked by Longmont’s Oskar Blues Brewery.
“Cooking chicken this way is really easy, and many people’s favorite way to grill during the summer,” said Devon Weatherwax, with Oskar Blues. “If you’re throwing a BBQ, make your chicken this way, and people will love it.”
As Weatherwax explains, all this method requires is a full chicken, some favorite seasonings and a half-full beer can. You just stick the bird cavity over the can and set it on the grill.
“The heat builds up in the can and the steam gives a great flavor,” he said. “The bird is so nice and juicy cooked this way.”
As more cars pulled into the parking lot, getting ready for a long weekend of hiking, fishing and camping, one thing became pretty clear. It’s going to be a busy summer.
