The Caribbean Rum and Beer Festival opens at 2 pm this afternoon, I do my presentation at 3:15 to 4 pm, then it is mingle among the booths and attendees. I always look forward to go from booth to booth and meet the new people in the industry and say hi to so many old friends. It is a chance to learn more about what everyone is doing and what new products are being introduced.
After chasing down some last minute supplies for my presentation it was off to the beach with Nicholas Feris and the rest of the Key West clan. Cocktails on the beach from 9:30 am til ll:30 am, yes AM, then it was back to the room to put the last touches together for the presentation. After setting everything up it is lunch time and then off to opening of the Caribbean Rum and Beer Festival. 
The Master Class came off very well and the attendees got to listen to a short history of the daiquiri and how it has evolved over the years. We shared a Jenkins Cox original Daiquiri, an El Floridita #4 Daiquiri and two Papa Doble (Hemingway Special), both frozen and up versions. All of the gallerie cam back for seconds of the daiquiri samples and seemed to really enjoy these classic cocktails.
Tasting went on into the night along with the entertainment. It would seem that a good sized crowd was having a really fun time mingling and getting involved with the exhibitors and the vendors. There was a beer portion and a foodie area that was great to become a part of as well. I just want to say thanks to Cheryl and her entire crew for having me back again. I had a wonderful time and look forward to returning for next years event. ;o)
