[yapc] Beer in Asheville

[Tim Heaney]

I just discovered this treasure trove of beer information on a
knitting board I frequent. I am not familiar with Asheville, so I
don't know where any of these are in relation to the conference, but I
thought others might be interested. --oylenshpeegul


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. Tasting room open Thursdays and Fridays.

Green Man Brewing: Known here by its nickname, Dirty Jack’s, 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.

And the Thirsty Monk is a great pub that deserves a visit, it is
located downtown.