Asheville has long been famous for its stunning scenery, lively mountain music and famous attractions such as Biltmore and the Blue Ridge Parkway. And now, it’s become the craft-brewing center of the Southeast. Asheville’s brewing scene has garnered so much enthusiasm that it was recently named the east coast winner of the Examiner’s "Beer City, USA" poll.
Asheville’s Brewing Scene
The Asheville area is home to ten craft breweries. On any given day, about 50 local beers can be enjoyed in Asheville, served on draft and in bottles. Tourists regularly travel here to sample and savor Asheville’s beer flavors, ranging from creamy, mild golden ales to robust Belgian-style brews.
Asheville’s Beer History
It all started in 1994, when Oscar Wong, a retired engineer living in Charlotte, moved to Asheville and opened Highland Brewing Company in a rustic basement space, just under Barley’s Taproom and Pizzeria on Biltmore Avenue. Having outgrown that location, it is now based at a much bigger site in East Asheville.
Each of Asheville’s breweries has its own unique atmosphere and personalities–no two are the same. Asheville Brews Cruise provides a behind-the-scenes look at what’s happening with its unique tour service.
Asheville is also home to a world-renowned specialty beer store, Bruisin’ Ales, and five annual beer festivals, Winter Warmer, Oktoberfest, Baseball & Beers at McCormick Field, Beer City Brewfest and Brewgrass
A Guide to Asheville’s Brewing Community
Highland Brewing: The first and biggest of Asheville’s breweries, Highland Brewing launched the craft beer scene here. It’s a bustling working brewery, with a clattering bottling line and huge tanks filled with ale. Highland now has a tasting room to welcome visitors. Highland Brewing is best known for its flagship Gaelic Ale (a malty amber brew) and the robust Oatmeal Porter. It’s located at 12 Old Charlotte Highway at the Blue Ridge Motion Pictures studios. 828-299-7223.
Green Man Brewing: Known here by its nickname, Dirty Jack’s, it’s the brewing arm of the popular Jack of the Wood English/Irish pub. Green Man has become a beer geek’s haven, with a small bar and a handful of tables. A big-screen TV is constantly playing international soccer matches. Most of the brews have a British vibe, such as pale ale. And be sure to ask for today’s cask-conditioned selection. It’s located at 23 Buxton Ave. 828-252-5502.
Asheville Pizza and Brewing and Asheville Brewing Company: These sister operations share the same lineups of house brews and food (pizza, burgers, sandwiches, etc.) But each has its own style. Asheville Pizza and Brewing features a second-run movie theater, game room and family atmosphere while Asheville Brewing includes a big patio, a liquor bar and a more adult theme. Flagship beers are Shiva IPA and Ninja Porter. Asheville Pizza and Brewing is located at 675 Merrimon Ave. 828-254-1281. Asheville Brewing Company is at 77 Coxe Ave. 828-255-4077.
French Broad Brewing Company: This little brew-house, located near Biltmore Village, combines a working microbrewery with a small tasting room featuring live music. Musicians play on a stage just a few feet from the brewing tanks, while visitors watch from a handful of small tables. Trains frequently roll by on nearby tracks. The music is free, but be sure to leave a tip for the players. The beers have a European edge such as the creamy Gateway Kolsch and 13 Rebels Extra Special Bitter. It’s located at 101 Fairview Road. 828-277-0222.
Pisgah Brewing Company: Take the movie “Weird Science,” combined it with beer, and that’s the scene at Pisgah, where almost any style goes. The operation includes a colorful tasting room and complex that includes live music, art gallery, game room, a big grassy back yard, and working brewery. All beers are certified organic. It’s about 20 minutes from downtown and well worth the drive. Flagship beers include Pisgah Pale and Endless Summer golden ale. It’s located at Eastside Business Park, on old U.S. 70, Black Mountain. 828-669-0190.
Wedge Brewing Company: Based in an old warehouse in Asheville’s French Broad River Arts District, the Wedge squeezes much use from a small space. Most of the room is occupied by brewing tanks, but there’s also a bar and tasting room. Many visitors take a seat on the old loading dock outside or at an inviting patio. Asheville’s railroad yard is just a few feet away, and trains often rumble by, adding to the ambiance. Flagship beers include Payne’s Pale and the mysterious (and powerful) Golem Belgian Ale. It’s located at 125-B Roberts St. 828-505-7292.
OysterHouse Brewing: Asheville’s smallest brewery, it’s tucked inside the Lobster Trap restaurant on busy Patton Avenue. This is primarily a restaurant, so seafood lovers should grab something to eat (there’s an impressive selection of oysters, which match up well with the house beers). The flagship brew is Oyster Stout. Yes, oysters are used in the brewing, leaving behind a slightly salty taste. Live music is offered several nights a week. Located at 35 Patton Ave. 828-350-0505.
Craggie Brewing Company: Craggie is a brewery with a heart, which is evident from the causes it supports, the vendors it does business with, and the way it inspires giving. Craggie sells beer with a conscience – organic in craft and whenever possible, brewed with local ingredients. From building the brewhouse with as much reclaimed or recycled equipment as possible, to discounting Willibechers for those who choose to donate to select non-profits, Craggie Brewing’s Public House is a place where the community can gather to have a good time while doing good for others. Located at 197 Hilliard Ave. 828-254-0360.
Lexington Avenue Brewery: The Lexington Avenue Brewery combines all the ingredients of a rockin' good time. In addition to beer that exceeds Asheville's rigorous standards, the LAB also features an extensive food menu, a live music venue, and a hostel upstairs. For the perfect blend of fun and affordability and even the option of a cozy bed to sleep in, the LAB has got it all. Located at 39 N Lexington Ave. 828-252-0212.
Welcome to Brewtopia
Asheville’s Beer History
