Western North Carolina is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with dozens of breweries located throughout the region.
From small, independent breweries to large, established names, WNC has something for every type of beer enthusiast.
One of the most iconic breweries in WNC is Highland Brewing Company, which was founded in 1994 in Asheville. Highland Brewing is known for its focus on sustainability, its commitment to community, and its wide range of beers, including the popular Gaelic Ale and the Pilsner. The brewery also features a large outdoor space that is perfect for enjoying a cold beer on a warm summer day.
Another popular brewery in Asheville is Green Man Brewery, which is known for its innovative approach to brewing and its unique taproom. Green Man’s beers include a wide range of styles, including IPAs, stouts, and sours, and the taproom features a cozy and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying a cold beer with friends.
Located in Brevard, Oskar Blues Brewery is another popular brewery in WNC. Oskar Blues is known for its commitment to sustainability and its focus on quality ingredients, and the brewery’s flagship beer, Dale’s Pale Ale, has become a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts. In addition to its core beers, Oskar Blues offers a wide range of seasonal and limited-release brews, as well as a food menu that features southern-inspired dishes.
Another popular brewery in Brevard is the Brevard Brewing Company, which is known for its traditional approach to brewing and its commitment to using local ingredients. The brewery’s beers include classic German styles like the Helles and the Dunkel, as well as more unique brews like the Nitro Chocolate Stout.
In Boone, the Appalachian Mountain Brewery (AMB) is a popular destination for beer lovers. AMB is known for its commitment to sustainability and community outreach, and the brewery’s beers include a wide range of styles, from the Long Leaf IPA to the Boone Creek Blonde Ale. The brewery also features a large outdoor seating area and a food menu that includes wood-fired pizzas and other small plates.
Another popular brewery in Boone is the Booneshine Brewing Company, which is known for its innovative approach to brewing and its focus on community. Booneshine’s beers include a wide range of traditional styles, as well as experimental and barrel-aged brews, and the taproom features a cozy and laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying a cold beer with friends.
The town of Mills River is also home to several popular breweries. One of the most popular is the Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. Sierra Nevada is known for its focus on sustainability and its commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients, and the brewery’s taproom offers a wide range of beers, including the classic Pale Ale and the Torpedo IPA.
In conclusion, the brewery scene in Western North Carolina is one of the most vibrant and exciting in the country. With a wide range of breweries located throughout the region, including established names like Highland Brewing Company and up-and-coming breweries like Booneshine Brewing Company, WNC is a must-visit destination for any beer enthusiast.