Sippin' On Summer

North Carolina! The land where the mountains meet the sea and the beer flows like an unstoppable river of hoppy goodness. Prepare yourself for a frothy adventure as we dive into the delightful world of North Carolina's top breweries. From the hills of Asheville to the bustling cities of Charlotte and Raleigh, and Wilmington I've curated a list that showcases the best breweries this state has to offer. So, grab your pint glass, and let's get this hoppy party started!

1. Wicked Weed Brewing - Asheville:

Kicking off our beer expedition is the wickedly amazing Wicked Weed Brewing in Asheville. Known for their fearless and boundary-pushing approach, this brewery will leave you weak at the knees with their imaginative brews. From the pucker-inducing sours to the hoppy masterpieces, every sip is an adventure. Don't miss their flagship beer, "Freak of Nature," a double IPA that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. They also have food and non-alcoholic offers such as kombucha. Just be warned: Wicked Weed Brewing will redefine your beer expectations forever. But Asheville isn't the only city where the beer scene thrives.

2. Bond Brothers Beer Company - Cary:

Venture over to Cary, and you'll find Bond Brothers Beer Company, a true gem in North Carolina's brewery scene. These brothers-in-arms have mastered the art of brewing, offering an impressive lineup of meticulously crafted beers. Take a sip of their "Long Leaf," a West Coast IPA bursting with pine and citrus, or indulge in the velvety goodness of "Elements of Composition," a decadent imperial stout. With a vibrant taproom and a friendly atmosphere, Bond Brothers Beer Company is a place where beer enthusiasts gather to bond over their shared love of exceptional brews. Do not forget there are 2 Bond Brother locations in Cary now. They also have food and food trucks as well as an array of non-alcoholic beverages. 

3. D9 Brewing Company - Huntersville:

Situated in the charming town of Huntersville, D9 Brewing Company delivers beers that are out of this world—literally. Known for their innovative use of wild yeast and unique flavor profiles, D9 takes your taste buds on an intergalactic journey. Buckle up for "Systema Naturae," a tart farmhouse ale aged in oak barrels with an infusion of wild yeasts and bacteria that'll leave your palate tingling. And don't miss their "Defying Gravity" series, featuring mind-bending concoctions like a triple IPA brewed with honey and galaxy hops. D9 Brewing Company proves that when it comes to beer, the sky is not the limit!

But our beer adventure doesn't end there. Let's hop over to the bustling city of Charlotte.

4. Resident Culture Brewing Company - Charlotte:

If you're in Charlotte, Resident Culture Brewing Company should be at the top of your brewery bucket list. With a focus on farmhouse ales and hop-forward creations, this brewery has cultivated a devoted following of beer lovers. Their ever-changing lineup guarantees a fresh experience with each visit, but be sure to look out for "DreamTropics," a hazy IPA bursting with tropical fruit flavors. The cozy taproom and friendly staff create an inviting atmosphere where you can mingle with fellow beer enthusiasts while sipping on liquid gold.

Now, let's travel eastward to the capital city of Raleigh, where our next brewery awaits.

5. Trophy Brewing Company - Raleigh:

Prepare for a triumphant beer experience at Trophy Brewing Company in Raleigh. This brewery has carved a niche for itself with its perfect blend of quality brews and playful vibes. Sip on the crowd-pleasing "Trophy Wife" pale ale while indulging in their legendary pizzas. And if you're feeling adventurous, sample their rotating selection of experimental brews, which often include unique ingredients like local honey or exotic spices. With its laid-back atmosphere and a passion for great beer, Trophy Brewing Company has truly earned its place on the list.

Transition: But we're not done yet! Let's keep the beer train rolling with a trip further east, to Wilmington, aka The Port City. 

    6. Wilmington Brewing Company – Wilmington 

When it comes to the best brewery in Wilmington, NC, it's hard to beat the exceptional offerings of Wilmington Brewing Company. This local gem has solidified its reputation as a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts. From the moment you step into their inviting taproom, you're greeted with an array of expertly crafted brews that showcase their passion for quality and creativity. Whether you're a fan of hoppy IPAs, smooth stouts, or refreshing sours, Wilmington Brewing Company has something to satisfy every palate. With their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and their dedication to pushing the boundaries of flavor, this brewery stands out as a true standout in the Wilmington beer scene. From the first sip to the last drop, Wilmington Brewing Company consistently delivers an unforgettable beer experience. Our beer journey wouldn't be complete without a stop at the oldest brewery in North Carolina.

7. Weeping Radish Farm Brewery - Grandy:

Nestled in the charming town of Grandy, the Weeping Radish Farm Brewery is a must-visit for those seeking a unique and historical beer experience. As the oldest microbrewery in North Carolina, Weeping Radish is known for its commitment to brewing traditional German-style beers. Sample their classic "Corolla Gold" Kölsch or dive into the rich flavors of their "Black Radish" Munich Dunkel. But the experience doesn't end with the beer—the brewery is part of a working farm where you can explore the fields and even enjoy a farm-fresh meal at their on-site restaurant. It's a true farm-to-pint-glass experience!

North Carolina's craft beer scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and personalities, with each brewery offering its unique twist on the art of brewing. From Asheville to Charlotte, Wilmington, and Raleigh, the state boasts a rich tapestry of breweries that cater to every beer lover's taste. So, grab your friends, embark on a beer pilgrimage, and let the flavors of North Carolina's top breweries dance on your palate. Cheers to the hops, the laughter, and the memories you'll make along the way!