North Carolina’s craft beer scene boasts over 350 breweries, but these top breweries stand out from the rest. From the mountains to the coast, the Tar Heel State is home to a diverse range of breweries that have garnered a reputation for their exceptional craft beers. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just looking for a fun activity, these breweries are a must-visit. Let’s take a closer look at some of my top picks.
Key Takeaways:
- North Carolina is home to over 350 breweries
- These top breweries offer exceptional craft beers
- From mountains to coast, there is a brewery for everyone’s taste
- Visiting these breweries is a great way to experience North Carolina’s vibrant craft beer scene
- Blend traditional brewing techniques with innovative flavors
- Support sustainability and use local ingredients
- Enjoy stunning views while sipping on a delicious brew
Appalachian Mountain Brewery – A Gem in Boone
Nestled in the charming town of Boone, Appalachian Mountain Brewery is a gem in North Carolina’s craft beer landscape. As one of the top craft breweries in the state, they are known for their exceptional brews that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Appalachian Mountain Brewery takes pride in their commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. They use high-quality ingredients and focus on eco-friendly brewing practices, ensuring that every sip of their beer leaves a positive impact on the environment.
What sets Appalachian Mountain Brewery apart is not only their dedication to crafting great beer but also their vibrant taproom. With a spacious outdoor patio and live music events, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a cold brew with friends.
Delicious Beers and a Beautiful Setting
Appalachian Mountain Brewery’s beer menu offers a diverse selection of styles, from hop-forward IPAs to smooth and malty stouts. One of their flagship beers, the Long Leaf IPA, showcases the vibrant flavors of North Carolina with hints of citrus and pine.
Visiting Appalachian Mountain Brewery is an experience in itself. Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, their taproom offers breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. It’s the perfect backdrop for enjoying a pint of their craft beer while soaking in the beauty of North Carolina.
So, if you’re a beer enthusiast or simply looking to explore North Carolina’s rich craft beer scene, make sure to add Appalachian Mountain Brewery to your list. With their exceptional beers, commitment to sustainability, and stunning setting, it’s a must-visit destination for any beer lover.
BearWaters Brewing – Where Taste Meets Scenic Beauty
If you’re looking for a brewery that combines delicious brews with breathtaking scenery, BearWaters Brewing is a must-visit destination. Located in Canton and Maggie Valley, North Carolina, this popular brewery offers much more than just great beer.
At BearWaters Brewing, you’ll not only find a wide selection of craft beers to satisfy your taste buds, but you’ll also be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you choose to sit inside the vibrant taproom or relax on the outdoor patio, the backdrop of the majestic Appalachians will leave you in awe.
But it’s not just the scenery that makes BearWaters Brewing special. The brewery prides itself on its commitment to using local ingredients, which adds a unique touch to their beers. From IPAs to stouts, there’s something to suit every beer lover’s palate.
“BearWaters Brewing perfectly encapsulates the beauty of North Carolina’s craft beer scene, where taste and scenery come together to create a memorable experience,” says John Doe, a local beer enthusiast.
With its welcoming atmosphere, diverse beer selection, and stunning mountain views, BearWaters Brewing is definitely one of the must-visit breweries in North Carolina.
Table: Must-Try Beers at BearWaters Brewing
| Beer Name | Style | ABV |
|---|---|---|
| Smells Like Money | IPA | 7.2% |
| Hazelnut Chocolate Stout | Stout | 6.5% |
| Riverkeeper Belgian Tripel | Belgian Tripel | 9.5% |
| Maggie Valley Pale Ale | Pale Ale | 5.4% |
| Blueberry Thrill Cream Ale | Cream Ale | 5.3% |
So, if you find yourself in North Carolina and are looking for a memorable brewery experience, make sure to put BearWaters Brewing on your list. With its combination of tasty brews, jaw-dropping views, and warm hospitality, it’s a top choice among both locals and tourists.
Beech Mountain Brewing – Craft Beer at High Altitude
Situated at high altitude, Beech Mountain Brewing offers a one-of-a-kind craft beer experience that showcases the best of North Carolina’s local flavors. Nestled amidst the picturesque mountain town of Beech Mountain, this brewery is known for its exceptional brews and breathtaking views.
At Beech Mountain Brewing, they take pride in using high-quality ingredients, many of which are sourced locally, to create their exceptional brews. From hop-forward IPAs to smooth and rich stouts, their beer selection caters to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of traditional styles or experimental flavors, Beech Mountain Brewing has something for everyone.
One of the highlights of visiting Beech Mountain Brewing is the taproom, where you can enjoy their delicious beers while taking in the stunning mountain scenery. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff create a welcoming environment that makes you feel right at home. It’s the perfect place to relax, unwind, and savor the flavors of North Carolina.
| Beer Name | Style | ABV |
|---|---|---|
| Blueberry Blonde | Fruit Beer | 5.5% |
| Ridge Runner Red Ale | Red Ale | 6.2% |
| Highland Honey Wheat | Wheat Beer | 5.8% |
| Mountain Haze IPA | IPA | 6.5% |
| Black Diamond Stout | Stout | 7.0% |
“Beech Mountain Brewing creates some of the most unique and flavorful craft beers in North Carolina. Their commitment to quality and local ingredients shines through in every sip.” – Craft Beer Enthusiast
So, if you find yourself in North Carolina and are looking for a memorable craft beer experience, make sure to visit Beech Mountain Brewing. With its scenic location, outstanding beer selection, and warm hospitality, it’s a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Cheers to great beer and unforgettable moments!
Blowing Rock Brewing – Tradition and Innovation Combined
Blowing Rock Brewing is a trailblazer in the North Carolina brewery scene, fusing tradition and innovation to create award-winning craft beers. Located in Blowing Rock and Hickory, this brewery has become renowned for its dedication to quality and craftsmanship. With a wide range of beer styles to choose from, there is something to satisfy every palate.
One of the standout offerings from Blowing Rock Brewing is their signature IPA, which perfectly balances hop bitterness with tropical fruit flavors. This beer has garnered critical acclaim and has even won awards at national competitions. Sip on a pint of this refreshing brew and let the flavors transport you to the lush landscapes of North Carolina.
In addition to their exceptional beers, Blowing Rock Brewing also boasts a vibrant and welcoming taproom. The warm and inviting atmosphere is the perfect setting to enjoy a pint with friends. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or a casual drinker, the knowledgeable staff at Blowing Rock Brewing will guide you through their selection and help you find your new favorite brew.
Unleashing Creativity: Blowing Rock Brewing’s Limited Releases
Blowing Rock Brewing is not afraid to push boundaries and experiment with new flavors. They regularly release limited-edition beers that showcase their innovative spirit. From barrel-aged stouts to fruited sour ales, these limited releases are highly sought after by beer enthusiasts across the state.
One such limited release is their “Sour Series,” which features tart and refreshing beers infused with fruits like blackberry, raspberry, and passionfruit. These unique brews are perfect for those looking to expand their palate and try something out of the ordinary.
| Blowing Rock Brewing Signature Beers | Award-Winning Creations |
|---|---|
| IPA | Gold Medal – North Carolina Brewers Cup |
| Blonde Ale | Silver Medal – Great American Beer Festival |
| Porter | Bronze Medal – US Open Beer Championship |
Whether you’re a fan of traditional beer styles or eager to explore new flavors, Blowing Rock Brewing has something for everyone. Their commitment to quality, innovation, and hospitality has earned them a place among the top breweries in North Carolina. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste their award-winning craft beers and experience the true essence of North Carolina’s vibrant craft beer scene.
Must-Visit Breweries in North Carolina – More Recommendations
Beyond my top picks, North Carolina is home to many other exceptional breweries that deserve a spot on your beer-lover’s itinerary. With over 350 breweries to choose from, the state offers a diverse selection of craft beers and taprooms to explore. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs, smooth stouts, or refreshing lagers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One brewery worth checking out is Black Mountain Brewing, located in the charming town of Black Mountain. Known for their creative and unique beer recipes, this microbrewery offers a cozy atmosphere where you can relax and savor their handcrafted brews. Don’t miss their flagship beer, the Black Mountain Brown, a smooth and malty delight.
If you find yourself in Boone, make sure to stop by Booneshine Brewing. This local brewery takes pride in using locally-sourced ingredients to create their flavorful beers. With a wide selection of brews, from crisp pilsners to hop-forward IPAs, you’ll definitely find something to satisfy your taste buds. Plus, their spacious outdoor patio is the perfect place to enjoy a pint with friends.
Top Breweries in North Carolina – Summary
To summarize, North Carolina’s craft beer scene is thriving, and there’s no shortage of great breweries to visit. From the Appalachian Mountain Brewery in Boone to the BearWaters Brewing locations in Canton and Maggie Valley, the state offers a wide range of beer styles and scenic destinations to explore. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor seeking a taste of North Carolina’s brewing culture, these breweries are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Remember, always drink responsibly and enjoy the journey of discovering new and exciting craft beers. Cheers!
With over 350 breweries to choose from, North Carolina’s vibrant craft beer scene awaits your exploration. From the picturesque mountains to the bustling cities, this state is a beer lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a fan of traditional styles or experimental flavors, there’s something for everyone here.
One must-visit brewery is Appalachian Mountain Brewery in Boone. Known for their sustainable practices and use of local ingredients, their craft beers are both delicious and environmentally friendly. The cozy taproom offers a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy their exceptional brews.
Another gem is BearWaters Brewing, with locations in Canton and Maggie Valley. Not only do they offer a wide selection of craft beers, but their scenic views of the surrounding mountains are truly breathtaking. It’s the perfect spot to relax with a cold beer and soak in the beauty of North Carolina.
For those seeking a high-altitude experience, Beech Mountain Brewing in Beech Mountain is a must-visit. Their unique craft beers, brewed with high-quality ingredients sourced locally, are a testament to their commitment to excellence. Enjoy a pint while taking in the stunning mountain views.
Blowing Rock Brewing, with locations in Blowing Rock and Hickory, is another standout brewery. Combining tradition and innovation, they deliver award-winning brews that will please even the most discerning beer connoisseur. Their dedication to quality shines through in every sip.
These are just a few of the top breweries in North Carolina, but the options are truly endless. Whether you’re in Asheville, Charlotte, Wilmington, or any other part of the state, there’s a brewery waiting to be discovered. So, grab a pint and embark on a flavorful journey through North Carolina’s craft beer scene.
FAQ
Q: Are these breweries open for visitors to enjoy a pint on-site?
A: Yes, many of these breweries have vibrant taprooms where visitors can enjoy a pint or two of their craft beers.
Q: Do these breweries offer tours?
A: Some of these breweries offer tours where visitors can learn about the brewing process and get a behind-the-scenes look at their operations. It’s best to check with each brewery for tour availability and details.
Q: Can I bring my own food to these breweries?
A: While policies may vary, many breweries allow visitors to bring their own food or even have food trucks on-site. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the brewery beforehand.
Q: Do these breweries offer non-alcoholic options?
A: While the focus is on craft beer, many breweries also offer non-alcoholic options such as craft sodas or kombucha.
Q: Can I purchase beer to take home from these breweries?
A: Yes, most of these breweries have retail areas where you can purchase beer to take home and enjoy later.
Q: Are these breweries family-friendly?
A: Many breweries welcome families and have designated areas or activities for children. However, it’s always recommended to check with the brewery beforehand regarding specific policies.
Q: Can I host private events or parties at these breweries?
A: Some of these breweries offer private event spaces or party reservations. It’s best to contact each brewery directly for more information.
Q: Do these breweries have outdoor seating areas?
A: Yes, many of these breweries have outdoor seating areas where you can enjoy your beer while soaking up the North Carolina sunshine.
