Discover Craft Beer Gems
What’s on tap at Brevard’s local breweries
The clean, clear and chilly water that runs down the mountains and fills Transylvania County’s streams, rivers and lakes has long been one of our greatest local resources. Water is also a critical component of excellent beer, which you can find on tap at all five of Brevard’s local breweries. These run the gamut in size, shape, and flavor profile, but all are must-stops for fans of a delicious pint, a welcoming atmosphere, and anyone curious to get a taste of what Brevard’s storied waters can do.
1
BREVARD BREWING
Opened in 2012, this family-owned local brewery is Brevard’s oldest. Brewmaster Kyle Williams specializes in handcrafted lagers and pilsners, which are rare among North Carolina’s microbreweries. Using imported German barley, hops, yeast, and Brevard’s soft brewing water, he creates delicious beers. Brevard Brewing is in the heart of downtown on East Main Street. Truly a business with deep roots in the community, the brewery is located in the former Trantham’s Department store building, which was owned and operated by the family and their predecessors for three generations. Learn more about Brevard Brewing.
2
ECUSTA BREWING
The Cherokee word “Ecusta” is what Transylvania County’s indigenous population called the Davidson River, which flows through Pisgah National Forest. Technically, the word means “Get Distant,” which Ecusta Brewing hopes will spur many adventurers to take the trail less traveled and drop by for one for their excellent lagers, ales, sours, porters and more on tap at the edge of the big woods. Learn more about Ecusta Brewing.
3
NOBLEBRAU BREWING
Brevard’s newest brewery is the brainchild of Cody Noble, a veteran of the western North Carolina brewery scene. Cody always dreamt of having his own brewery. In the spring of 2018, while attending the opening of Vescovo Neighborhood Eatery, he learned that a nearby local music venue had space for a brewery. Once the seed was planted, the idea of returning home to Brevard and starting something all his own could not be brushed aside. Now adjacent to 185 King, a beloved bar with live music in the heart of Brevard’s Lumberyard Arts District, Noblebräu serves up a variety of craft beer, snacks, and delicious sandwiches. Learn more about Noblebräu Brewing.
4
Oskar Blues
When Colorado-based Oskar Blues opened in Brevard in 2012, founder Dale Katechis cited the unique quality of the pure mountain water as an impetus. Since then, the brewery has produced its ales, stouts, pilsners, and lagers for the East Coast, and has become a vital part of the community. Their annual events, which include everything from music festivals and holiday celebrations to cycling events, are can’t-miss dates on the Brevard calendar. Learn more about Oskar Blues.
5
GRIFFON & SPHYNX
Craft beer veteran Wayne Wambles has launched Griffon & Sphynx, a new brewery based at the former UpCountry Brewing location near Downtown Brevard in the lumberyard district. Named after his two Brussels Griffon dogs and a Sphynx cat, Griffon & Sphynx will feature classic styles with a focus on lower ABV offerings, though hop-forward IPAs and pale ales will remain a staple. Known for his expertise with hops, Wambles brings a unique approach to brewing, blending his passion for classic beers with innovation.
