One of the most popular events at The Maine Lobster Festival takes an outdoor beer and wine tasting event, pairs it with a bunch of fun-loving people from all over the country and sets the whole thing to live music. This year, Steins and Vines is happening August 1.

This is a not-to-miss event for the 21-and-over crowd in Rockland, Maine. Both locals and visitors hobnob inside a gated area by the main stage, sampling some of the best beer and wine that makes Maine famous as one of the most exciting craft libation scenes in the country right now.

Last year saw an unprecedented number of attendees at the only official beer and wine tasting event in Rockland. The best part is getting to meet and chat with the brewers and vintners who serve samples of their most popular choices. You will not only learn about the varied and seasonal East Coast styles, but you may even get a chance to try beers and wines with ingredients you will never see anywhere else. (Blueberries and oysters were some of the more exotic flavors that local breweries and wineries have brought to past Steins and Vines tastings.)

Right here in the Rockland area, some of these brewers and wineries have tasting rooms where you can sample even more of your new favorites once Steins and Vines is over, including Rock Harbor Brewing Co. (with two tasting rooms in Rockland), Threshers Brewing Co. (with a new tasting room in nearby Thomaston) and Breakwater Vineyards (in nearby Owls Head).

Venture beyond your tried-and-true favorites when considering what to sample. For example, those who aren’t necessarily fans of the bitter, piney IPA may be pleasantly surprised to realize that Maine brewers are at the forefront these days, making a wide range of IPA styles from hazy to juicy and from floral to citrusy. Or perhaps you’re not a Riesling fan. Expand your palate at Steins and Vines with the rich and lush flavors of pear, lemon, lime, and a mineral acidity that you’ll distinctly get from a Maine wine. Here are more tasting tips for beer lovers and wine lovers.

Tickets are $25 each, which gets you entry into the entire Maine Lobster Festival. But take it from us: This event sells out quickly. Participants 21 and over will receive 12 tickets to pick their tastings, as well as a 3-ounce commemorative glass. 

To get the most out of your trip to Maine Lobster Festival 2019, check out our MLF blog for other exciting things to do in the area.