Written by Jennifer Fitzgerald | Photos by Anthony Harden
It’s been another strong year for the alcohol industry in Western North Carolina—and more growth is expected. Let’s examine why.
The anonymous quote “History flows forward on rivers of beer” certainly applies to the beer scene in Western North Carolina as Capital at Play takes its annual look at the industry. The region is home to 84 breweries, with two more on the way. These breweries continue to impact Asheville and the surrounding counties as they provide jobs and draw tourists throughout the year.
One significant change for the alcohol industry occurred on June 30, when North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper signed the state’s “Brunch Bill” into effect. It allows alcohol sales on Sundays to begin at 10AM rather than noon. Local government boards must approve this change.
A few highlights from the past year include Madison County’s first brewery—Mad Co Brewing—opening on Main Street in Marshall, and the announcement in May that Asheville’s Wicked Weed Brewing was being purchased by Anheuser-Busch InBev.
(A complete list of regional breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries follows this article. You can also access it at our “Resources” page.)
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