Beer & Wine 2024

• 2024 •

BEER & WINE Drink happy thoughts.

EVENT GUIDE Mountain Times P U B L I C A T I O N S

2 • AUGUST 2024 BEER & WINE EVENT

Welcome to the 2024 HIGH COUNTRY

Beer Fest

W

elcome to the 17th annual High Country Beer Fest! It’s hard to believe it’s been 17 years already. What started as a crazy idea from a group of beer-loving faculty and community members in Boone has evolved into a premier late-summer event in the High Country.

The original event in 2007 was held indoors at the Broyhill Inn and Conference Center on campus during a football weekend in the fall and welcomed about 300 attendees.

After the inaugural year, the event was moved to the Saturday before Labor Day weekend, which is a sweet spot after the fall semester has started, but before football season officially kicks off, and has been held on that date ever since. It was also moved outside to enjoy the beautiful late summer weather in the High Country when it’s typically sweltering down the mountain. Despite the date change, the Beer Fest remained at the Broyhill Inn until it outgrew that venue several years later and was moved to the High Country Fairgrounds, its current venue.

The event continued to grow and 2019 saw about 3,500 attendees, which was probably bigger than it ever should have gotten. Well, COVID put an end to that growth. The 2020 event was online, and in 2021, with so much uncertainty around large gatherings, the event was limited to 1,000 attendees. The brewers, attendees, and organizers all appreciated the return to the event’s boutique roots. It was decided to limit the attendees moving forward to about 1,500, a sweet spot for the event and venue.

The Beer Fest is not only an entertaining and educational event in the High Country. It also serves as the major annual fundraiser for the Fermentation Sciences program at App. Over the years, despite date and venue changes, a pandemic, and economic swings, the Beer Fest has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the first stand-alone fermentation science program in the country and has been critical to its success.

The money is used to support student research projects, equipment purchases, and travel to conferences for faculty and students. While most of

PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

Cheers to the 17th annual High Country Beer Fest

the revenue from the event goes to the Fermentation program, the remaining revenue is donated to a different local charity every year. This year’s local charity is Partners! Canine is a non-profit dedicated to rescuing dogs from high-kill shelters and providing them with a safe haven until they can be adopted.

The High Country Beer Fest also provides the opportunity for regional artisans, from brewers to musicians to food vendors, to show off their skills to a captive audience. The boutique nature of the event also allows patrons to talk with the brewers and learn about what inspires them. Don’t forget about the educational seminars as well, which showcase fermented delicacies prepared by students in the Fermentation Sciences program. The seminars are a great way to take a break from the main festivities, learn about the fermentation process, and taste the different ways it can be applied to food products.

From the organizers of the Beer Fest, we’d like to thank you for your patronage over the years and hope to see you on August 24 for this year’s event.

Come enjoy a beautiful day in the High Country and support local brewers, musicians, food vendors, and the Fermentation Sciences program!

Brett Taubman and Daniel Parker High Country Beer Fest Organizers

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BEER & WINE EVENT

HIGH COUNTRY

Beer Fest Returns August 24

BY MOSS BRENNAN

W

ith approximately 1,700 people expected and 40 to 45 breweries, the High Country Beer Fest is a popular event every year that brings together beer lovers.

This year, the 17th annual event will occur on Aug. 24 at the High Country Fairgrounds, starting at 3 p.m. (VIP ticket holders can enter at 2 p.m.). They will stop pouring beer at 7 p.m., but attendees can stick around until 8 p.m. to enjoy the music, eat and dance.

High Country Beer Fest is a fundraising event for Ivory Tower, Inc., a nonprofit that supports Fermentation Sciences

1,700 people are expected to attend this year’s festival.

at Appalachian State University. High Country Beer Fest funds have been used for scholarships and research grants, staffing, equipment, and more. Organizers are dedicated to providing training and experiences that produce quality brewers and innovators to improve the craft brewing industry and further developments in fermentation sciences.

Over the last 17 years, the festival has grown from the initial event inside the old Broyhill Inn and Conference Center, which had 300 attendees, to a maximum of about 3,500 attendees in 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the growth, but it was somewhat of a blessing in disguise.

“We realized that having fewer people

Attendees can sample lots of different beers at the festival.

at the event allowed more time for our patrons to talk with the brewers and learn about their products and process,” said event organizers Brett Taubman and Daniel Parker. “So, we’ve since settled on a sweet spot of about 1,500 attendees, which is probably where it will stay for the foreseeable future. We’ve always had a good mix of college students, alumni, locals, and beer appreciators from around the region.”

Parker and Taubman said their favorite

PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

part of the festival each year is seeing the local artists — like brewers, musicians and food vendors — show off all of their crafts.

A “close second” is seeing the patrons enjoy themselves while sampling the local products.

At the festival, breweries will give out free 2 oz. samples. Merch will be available for purchase, but preordering a shirt on the website will ensure the festival has your size.

With more than 40 breweries in attendance, the High Country Beer Fest shows off the area’s beer scene.

“It’s a great opportunity for them to show off their products and for us to grow and maintain the relationships we’ve developed with them over the years,” Parker and Taubman said. “It’s amazing to see the growth of the local industry and to feel that we have played some small part in that growth.”

With all of those vendors available for the patrons, Parker and Taubman hope attendees leave “an appreciation of the brewing industry and their craft as well as what a special place the High Country is.”

The festival also features educational seminars, which are always a great way to learn more about fermentation in general, the Fermentation Sciences program, and an opportunity to learn new things in an entertaining (and shaded) environment.

Make sure to visit the many food vendors in attendance and check out the three bands that will perform throughout the day.

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PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

Kinney Baughman is Bubbleman

LEGEND of the

BY ZACH COLBURN

E

very superhero has an origin story and the legend of Bubbleman is no exception.

But this superhero, who stands six feet, eight inches tall, doesn’t fight crime; instead, he spreads joy.

Bubbleman and his alter ego, Kinney Baughman, won’t be found in the pages of a comic book or on the silver screen but can be spotted at the High Country Beerfest, which will take place on Aug. 24, as well as other High Country events throughout the year.

“It’s been so totally by accident. I didn’t plan any of this, but I have had the most fun with it because what’s the thing in life you can do that brings a smile to people’s lives?

It brings joy; you start blowing bubbles, and people start smiling,” said Baughman. “It’s tapping into something primal in people’s psyche, or something I don’t really don’t know what it is; I have thought a lot about it.

I think it’s something, you know, a sphere.”

Bubbleman’s origin didn’t come from falling into a vat of chemicals or from an experiment gone wrong. His origin, and legend for that matter, came from two of Baughman’s primary activities—brewing and running.

Baughman began with the first brewery in Boone at the Cottonwood Brewery (originally known as Tumbleweed) back in 1993. At the time, only five other breweries existed in the state of North Carolina and Cottonwood was the only brewery in Western North Carolina.

Bubbleman

Baughman’s affinity with bubbles started with a chance encounter while participating in the Hunter’s Heroes Memorial Run and Celebration. The annual memorial run pays tribute to Deputy William Mast Jr., who died suddenly in the line of duty in 2012.

During the memorial run around 2016, Baughman was about six miles into the run when he suddenly started seeing bubbles coming down everywhere, and his mood changed from determined to somewhat joyful.

“It brightened my day. I actually turned around and ran backward for a while just to watch the bubbles come in,” said Baughman.

“About two weeks later, I’m making an order with Amazon, and I needed five more dollars to get free shipping, so I ordered a bubble gun.”

Baughman was a bit unsure about whether he wanted to bring his new toy with him as he ran the Bear at Grandfather Mountain.

Ultimately, Baughman decided to bring it and ran all the way up to the top of Grandfather, blowing bubbles along the way and Bubbleman was born.

“I guess the first time I realized I was on to something was when I went through MacRae Meadows because the Bear’s the last thing that’s run before they start the Highland Games,” said Baughman. “So we run through MacRae Meadows there, and everybody’s camping for the Highland Games; I come through there blowing bubbles, and the crowd goes wild; they started chanting ‘bubble man, bubble man, bubble man,’ and so that was a good experience blowing bubbles.”

About a month after the memorial run, Baughman and Bubbleman made their first Beerfest appearance, and it became a recurring event.

Normally tasked with either getting empty glasses or in charge of tickets, Baughman made sure to throw Bubbleman into the

mix with those jobs and even added more gadgets (or bubble guns, in this case) to his repertoire.

Even the board for Beerfest started to take notice.

“As I would go get glasses or to do ~ CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

At every event, attendees love to stop and take pictures with Bubbleman.

something, I started blowing bubbles, and everybody loved it; next thing you know, you got all these pretty women wanting to get their picture taken with Bubbleman,” said Baughman. “The Board noticed that this was bringing a lot of joy to everybody’s experience at Beer Fest, so the next year, I brought two bubble guns and started blowing more bubbles. After the third year, the board said ‘Kinney, we don’t want you doing tickets anymore; you just be Bubbleman.’”

While playing basketball in Italy back in late June for the FIMBA European Maxibasketball championships, Baughman ran into another Bubbleman — the Italian Bubbleman.

According to Baughman, the gentleman also went by the name Grandpa Bubbles, who ended up giving him a special bubble wand that could help him create big bubbles — something he’s considering trying out at Beerfest this year.

“Some of the guys and I were walking down the street coming back from supper one night. And there was a roundabout that had a little square associated with it; there’s this guy blowing bubbles, and of course, I stopped and took some pictures and started telling all my basketball buddies,” said Baughman. “The next day, I go into the hotel where I am, and there’s Grandpa Bubbles, I think what we call him, and we hung out one afternoon — it turns out he shows up at this hotel once a week.”

FROM BASKETBALL TO BREWING Baughman’s been synonymous with the

High Country’s beer scene since starting at Cottonwood.

But Baughman’s interest in brewing dates back to when he played basketball professionally in Belgium in 1978 after the South Carolina native graduated from Appalachian State.

When he returned to the States for graduate school at the University of Georgia in the early ‘80s, Baughman found a magazine advertisement for a home brewing kit.

After experimenting with several brews, Baughman became the first American to win a medal for a Belgium Beer when he brewed a sour beer (he entered it in the Belgium Beer category since there were no sour beer categories at the time) at the Great American Beer Festival.

Baughman entered a Black Framboise into the Great American Beer Festival. He also entered an Amber Framboise, an old brown tart beer, that earned him a medal.

“I brewed some sour beers. I actually have gotten credit for brewing the first commercial sour beer in America since Prohibition — it actually came as a mistake,” said Baughman. “What I used to say at Cottonwood is we weren’t afraid to offend people. You know, we brewed some pretty wild, spiced beers that had never been heard of back then.”

Since starting at Cottonwood Brewing (formerly Tumbleweed), Baughman has seen the expansion of breweries in the area, including Booneshine Brewery, Appalachian Mountain Brewery, and Lost Province.

When asked about the state of breweries,

Bubbleman’s origin, and legend for that matter, came from two of Baughman’s primary activities—brewing and running.

or brewpubs, in the Boone area, he feels they’ve built a good beer culture.

“It’s been great. I think Boone has as good a beer culture as any other town in North Carolina. Asheville gets all the press for how many they have down there. When I was brewing beer, John McDermott had

Highland Brewing (in Asheville), and we collaborated,” said Baughman. “It was a great business to be in, but I say per capita, I put Boone’s craft beer environment up against Asheville’s any day of the week. Every brewery here just brews exceptional beers — there’s just no bad beer brewed in Boone.”

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Boondocks Brewing was founded in 2012 in Historic Downtown West Jefferson.

Boondocks Brewing’s founder, Gary Brown, has made it his mission to aid in the economic revitalization of Ashe County, to set the bar high for other businesses in Ashe County and to make a difference in the lives of Boondocks employees. He has also mentored and assisted numerous Breweries and Restaurants that have opened in the High Country since 2012 to include many that are featured in this guide.

Boondocks Brewing consists of 4 unique lines of business and operates from two historic buildings in Downtown West Jefferson.

• The Brew Haus – located at 302 S Jefferson Ave in West Jefferson, offers a quick service menu. With a large stage & dance floor, 2 levels of seating, 2 bars and a roof top deck, this is the place to be on the weekends. The Brew Haus is also available for private events.

• Commercial Brewery – located in their Brew Haus location. Over 20 Craft Beers are produced in 5bbl and 10bbl batches on a regular basis.

Boondocks only distributes to a few select locations in West Jefferson as a means of maintaining high quality standards and to ensure the beer that comes from the tap is at its best. You will not find Boondocks Craft Beer on any retail shelves except at their West Jefferson Locations.

• The Restaurant – located one block from the Brew Haus at 108 S Jefferson Ave. The Restaurant offers a full-service dining experience with a unique menu filled with hand crafted items. With an extensive full-service bar, 2 large dining areas, a private room, a covered outside dining area and an open-air Beer Garden it is the largest Restaurant in West Jefferson.

• Catering & Events – Boondocks has been the preferred caterer in the area since 2013 and has experience working with most of the special event venues in the High Country. With their mobile craft kitchen, they can bring the kitchen to you if needed.

Learn more at www.boondocksbeer.com, www.facebook.com/BoondocksBrewing, or www.facebook.com/boondocksbrewhaus

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BEER & WINE EVENT

Three acts scheduled to perform at 17TH ANNUAL

Beer Fest

BY JERRY SNOW

T

hree musical acts will perform at the 17th Annual High Country Beer Fest, which will be held Aug. 24 from 2-7 p.m. at the High Country Fairgrounds (748 Roby Greene Rd.), including E’Lon JD; Ashley Heath & Her Heathens; and The Coyotes.

E’Lon JD is an American progressive soul artist, bass player, songwriter and educator.

According to his biography, he finds inspiration from the musical talent of Jimi Hendrix, Andre 3000 and John Legend, and others. His feel-good music is described as combining elements of soul, funk, jazz and rock.

He has recorded with acts such as Phony Ppl and The Gregory Bros. and has shared the stage with Belá Fleck, members of Snarky Puppy, Victor Wooten, and Weedie Braimah. He is currently the bass player in the internationally touring band Jonathan Scales Fourchestra.

To learn more about E’Lon JD, and hear his latest single, visit www. elonjd.com.

Ashley Heath’s voice is described as “velvet soul” on hcbeerfest.com.

A singer/songwriter from Asheville, Heath released her third album, “Something to Believe,” in 2022. She is currently promoting her music by touring with her band.

Heath has performed at MerleFest, Bonnaroo and Shakori Hills.

For more details about Heath,

her music, and her tour, go to ashleyleeannheath.com.

The Coyotes are a 4-piece rock band from Boone. They began playing in the wake of the Pandemic in the Boone House Show scene, according to High Country Beer Fest’s website. They have developed their sound by playing all around the Eastern U.S. Their music, influenced by post-punk, cancel punk and garage rock, is described as aggressive and upbeat, expressing contempt for the systems of exploitation and oppression, as well as a longing for other possibilities, according to their biography on hcbeerfest.com.

For more information about The Coyotes, visit www.facebook.com/ abandofcoyotes/?_rdr.

PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

Attendees always like to get down to the great music at the High Country Beer Fest.

PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

Attendees always like to get down to the great music at the High Country Beer Fest.

PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

E’Lon JD is described as an American progressive soul artist, bass player, songwriter and educator.

PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

The Coyotes are a 4-piece rock band from Boone. They began playing in the wake of the Pandemic.

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DON’T

Drink & Drive

Travel options available for High Country Beer Fest attendees

BY MOSS BRENNAN

O

ne of the key points of High Country Beer Fest is making sure no one gets behind the wheel intoxicated. To do this, organizers have created a variety of incentives and options for attendees.

The High Country Beer Fest offers

reduced-rate tickets for designated drivers.

Those who have had a little too much to drink can also leave their car at the fairgrounds overnight, where free parking is available.

For those who don’t want to drive to the fairgrounds, a shuttle is available.

A bus will run pick-ups from the

Appalachian State Peacock Hall Parking Lot to the fairgrounds from 1:15 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. This year, parking at Peacock will be limited due to construction on the lot.

Festival organizers recommend that this area be for people that live or are staying in town.

After the festival, a bus will run dropoffs from the Fairgrounds back to the

Appalachian State Peacock Hall Parking Lot from 6:30 p.m. until the end of need.

Kenneth E. Peacock Hall Parking Lot is located on Rivers Street, approximately 0.5 miles from the George M. Holmes Convocation Center.

For more information on the festival, visit hcbeerfest.com/.

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HIGH COUNTRY

Beer Fest

gives back to local organizations

BY CHRISTIAN GARDNER & JAREN GRAGG

W

hile the High Country Beer Fest is a great time for beer lovers, it also serves as a fundraising event.

While attending the HCBF, patrons can sample from more than 50 breweries around the High Country.

Equipment, staffing, along with research grants and scholarships have come from funding through the festival. According to the HCBF website, HCBF raises between $40,000 and $60,000 every year. HCBF constantly looks to involve the community, according to HCBF Director Daniel Parker.

Festival personnel aspire for attendees to be able to enjoy a drink while talking with their friends and the local brewers while listening to local bands.

Parker said he thinks that the HCBF has always had a positive response from the community and brings many Appalachian State University alumni back to the High Country. HBCF seeks to include many local industries that are a part of the community.

Because of Beer Fest, a wide range of people visit the community, and HCBF partners with area hotels so guests have a place to stay.

Parker said that everything from the tents and vendors to the food trucks and bands playing at Beer Fest is local.

“We decided from the beginning that it was important in setting up this event that it be a big part of the community,” Parker said.

“We live here, and we want to be a part of the community, and we do everything that we possibly can locally, such as we get our shirts printed locally, and all of our music is local.

We have such great local music in Boone and this is a great way for us to help give a big audience to the local bands that are around the area.”

Because the HCBF wants to be involved in the community and support many businesses, it also wants to sponsor and spotlight many local charities around the area.

Over the past 17 years, High Country Beer Fest has spotlighted many area charities.

According to Parker, the festival likes to donate to those within the area and those who need assistance, where the money can be returned to the community. Since its inception, the HBCF has donated more than $30,000 to local charities.

This year’s sponsor is Partners! Canines.

Partners! looks to help save shelter, dogs, and puppies, and over the past 15 years, it has saved more than 14,000 animals.

Partners! Canines is a dog (and sometimes cat) rescue nonprofit organization that works with the surrounding counties in northwest North Carolina to rescue puppies and dogs from high-kill shelters and transport them to rescue partners nationwide, who then find them forever homes. Its mission is to end the euthanasia of adoptable dogs and puppies in animal shelters throughout the South.

All of the proceeds received from donations, adoptions, T-shirt sales, and other fundraising activities go toward transferring great but homeless dogs and puppies from shelters in rural NC to other state and national rescue organizations, where they are spayed, neutered, and held until they are all adopted. All funds raised are used to pay for vaccinations, medical, foster, and transport expenses. Partners! Canines could not do what it does without support from local businesses and all the volunteers.

“We have participated in the Fest for

PHOTO COURTESY PARTNERS! CANINES

Partners! Canines are present at many events across the region sharing about its mission

several years and are super excited to be the receiving nonprofit this year,” said Executive Director Eva Hyatt. “It’s a tremendous help, as anything we receive helps fund expenses for transporting dogs and getting their proper vetting and other necessary expenses to keep them safe.”

Partners! Canines have several partners in the northern regions of the US, which states have no kill laws, as well as spay and neuter laws which opens the opportunity for those animals to have longer lives and be adopted.

HCBF will also host many other nonprofit organizations during the event, which will offer merchandise and help promote

their organizations. Hospitality House of the High Country, along with Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture, the Humane Society, Appalachian Voices, Oasis, Appalachian FC soccer team, and Beer for Boobs, which teams with local breweries to bring awareness to breast cancer, along with other nonprofits, will be at the event.

Parker noted that from the time that HCBF began, the organization has sought to support as many local charities and foundations as they possibly could. If any charities are looking to be a part of the HCBF in the future, contact Parker at director@hcbeerfest. com.

PHOTO COURTESY PARTNERS! CANINES

Dogs aren’t the only animals that Partners! Canines helps find new homes, as the organization also assists with finding homes for cats as well.

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HIGH COUNTRY

Beer Fest food and beverage

BY MOSS BRENNAN

T

he High Country Beer Fest will have many options for attendees to choose from when it comes to tasting a beer. From right here in Watauga and Ashe counties to across the state, there’s a brew for everyone.

2024 High Country Beer Fest Participating Breweries • Blowing Rock Brewing • Booneshine Brewing Co. • Appalachian Mountain Brewery • Olde Hickory Brewery • Lost Province Brewing Co. • Ivory Tower Brewery • Red Oak Brewery • White Labs • Innovation Brewing • Blake’s Hard Cider Co. • Hi-Wire Brewing • Divine Barrel Brewing • Fiddlin’ Fish Brewing Co • King Canary Brewing • White Elephant Beer Company • Royal Bliss Brewing Co. • Austin Eastciders • Wye Hill Brewing • Foothills Brewing • Protagonist Beer • Ginger’s Revenge • Stardust Cellars • City Walk Brewing & Distilling • Fullsteam Brewery • Fonta Flora Brewery • Sidetracked Brewery • Edit Beer Co • Wise Man Brewing • New Belgium Brewing

• Parallel Brewing Co • Carolina Brewery • Sweeten Creek Brewing • Athletic Brewing Co • Incendiary Brewing • Beech Mountain Brewing Co. • Lake Norman Brewery • Birdsong Brewing Co • SouthEnd Brewing Co. • Angry Troll Brewing • Blue Moon • Terrapin Beer Co. • Brick Tree Brewing Co. • New Sarum Brewing • Lost Worlds Beer Make sure to visit hcbeerfest.com for the most updated list of breweries that will be attending.

You can’t have a festival without food, and this year, festival organizers have brought in multiple vendors to provide attendees with delicious meals.

2024 High Country Beer Fest Food Vendors • Boonetown BBQ • The Ham Shoppe • Mookie’s Kettle Korn • Bub’s Grub Hub Inc • Claudia y los mariachis • Wicked Good Pretzels • The Cardinal Burger Wagon • Brickoven pizza • The Dog Father LLC Make sure to check out one of these vendors in between sampling the great beers and ciders at the High Country Beer Fest.

Booneshine Brewing Co. is one of the vendors at the festival.

One of the vendors at the festival is Austin Eastciders.

PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

PHOTO COURTESY HIGH COUNTRY BEER FEST

Lost Province Brewing Co. is one of the vendors at the High Country Beer Fest.

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Booneshine Brewing Company What makes Boone shine?

First and foremost, it’s the people. Boone is home to many explorers, artists, and entrepreneurs. Our community thrives on adventure and celebrating life in the High Country. Whether it’s hiking a mountain for the first time, catching your first rainbow trout, taking a bike ride, carving a turn on the slopes, or simply enjoying the outdoors on a beautiful sunny day, Boone truly shines.

Booneshine Brewing Company is passionate about brewing delicious and approachable beer while connecting with what makes the community shine. Since opening in 2019, Booneshine has offered award-winning craft beer, pretzels, salads, sandwiches, and flatbreads. Don’t miss the hot honey chicken

Booneshine’s mission is to make the High Country a better place. One example is their partnership with many local organizations, including Appalachian State Fermentation Sciences. Booneshine has hired several fermentation

sciences

graduates

and

partners with the Ivory Tower Brewing non-profit to raise funds for the program.

Once a quarter, Booneshine collaborates with Ivory Tower on a brew, with proceeds going back to the fermentation sciences

sandwich or the warm grains bowl.

In addition to the restaurant, Booneshine

program.

features a food truck and tap trailer in the largest

Booneshine is 100% locally owned and

beer garden in the High Country. The food truck

certified independent under the Brewer’s

serves grab-and-go options perfect for pairing

Association Independent Craft program. Drink

with a fresh craft beer and Adirondack chair.

fresh and local and Make | Boone | Shine.

Voted Best Brewery 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 & 2024 Visit our restaurant/tasting room and outdoor beer garden in East Boone.

2020

465 Industrial Park Drive • Boone, NC 28607 • 828.278.8006 • booneshine.beer

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Drink HAVE A

in the HIGH COUNTRY

BY NATHAN HAM

N

orth Carolina has become one of the most popular travel destinations for craft beer and wine trail enthusiasts in the Southeast.

According to the North Carolina Craft Beer Guild, over 430 breweries operate in the state.

Luckily, the High Country has been able to experience the positive impacts of having both craft breweries and local wineries that have so much to offer the area. Impacts can be determined economically, but looking past that, breweries and wineries often offer great places to socialize, host events, and attract tourists from outside the region.

New River Brewing’s Taproom location in West Jefferson has a running list of weekly events that have continued to grow in popularity over the last year. Each Tuesday, locals and visitors are invited to come by and test their wits against each other as Trivia Night offers gift cards to the winning team to go along with a night full of fun competition. On Wednesday nights, Open Mic Night is hosted by local musician Vogan Thompson. Folks show up to play some tunes and sing each week, sharing their talents with a fun and supportive audience. Other musical performances are on select weekends, with different bands and singers performing.

West Jefferson’s other brewery, Boondocks Brewing, features a restaurant and Brew Haus for special events.

Musicians routinely play in the beer garden at the restaurant and inside the Brew Haus on the weekends. The Brew Haus also offers weekend karaoke and a rooftop bar that allows you to overlook the town and have a great view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Old Barn Winery in West Jefferson has been in operation since 2022 and has

quickly become one of the High Country’s most popular hangouts and event venues.

The winery features musical artists each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from spring through the fall months and hosts wine tastings, yoga classes, and other special events throughout the year.

In Boone, the brewing scene has come a long way since Appalachian Mountain Brewery first opened its doors in 2013.

AMB became known as the first brewery in Boone and kicked off what has become a craft beer economic boom across the region. Booneshine Brewing and Lost Province Brewing were not far behind in beginning their success stories in Watauga County. Booneshine’s beer garden in the eastern end of Boone and Lost Province’s recent opening of the Hardin Creek

PHOTO COURTESY NEW RIVER BREWING

New River Brewing has a wide variety of beer to try when come to visit for trivia night, Open Mic Night or just want to take a trip to West Jefferson.

Taproom exemplify their success stories, with both growing from small brewing locations in Boone to operating larger spaces and producing more beer.

In an area that one would not think about successfully growing vineyards, the Appalachian High Country American Viticultural Area was formed with wineries in Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Eastern Tennessee that grow their grapes between 2,290 and

Alex Key performing at the Old Barn Winery in West Jefferson earlier this summer.

4,630 feet of elevation. Currently, there are four local North Carolina wineries in the Appalachian High Country AVA. Old Barn Winery in West Jefferson is joined by Banner Elk Winery & Villa, Grandfather Vineyard Wines in Banner Elk and Linville Falls Winery. The success stories of these wineries and others in the region will hopefully continue to promote the quality wine products that can be made from growing grapes at these higher elevations.

PHOTO COURTESY OLD BARN WINERY

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Appalachian Mountain Brewery Nestled in the North Carolina High Country, Appalachian Mountain Brewery (AMB) and Cidery (AMC) was founded in 2013 and was the first brewery in Boone, NC. Also born and raised in the North Carolina Mountains are founders Nathan and Chris, who built a foundation of high-quality beer rooted in the principles of community, philanthropy and sustainability.

A decade on, our commitment to these principles is unwavering. Did you know that since January 2018, we’ve sown the seeds of change by planting over 120,000 Long Leaf Pine Trees across the state in partnership with the Long Leaf Alliance?

Our sponsorship of beehives through Bee Downtown not only supports local ecosystems but also enriches our Farm to Flame food truck and our award-winning Boone Creek Blonde Ale with

local honey. Our sustainable brewing processes, including our collaboration with local farms to repurpose spent grain as cattle feed, not only reduces waste but also supports local farmers, saving them up to 50+ tons of feed per year!

Along with deep involvement throughout the community, our high-quality beer speaks for itself with a multitude of awards.

AMB has participated in the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup - the most prestigious beer competitions in the world - and has earned several medals. Awards include a 2024 silver medal for the 828 Lager; a 2024 silver medal for the Ice Cold India Pale Lager; a 2024 Bronze for the Low & Hazy; a 2017 gold medal and 2023 gold medal for the Boone Creek Blonde; a 2018 gold medal and a 2023 silver medal for the Down South Lager and a 2017 silver medal for the Hop Rain Drop IPA. Come visit our pub location in Boone, NC, or our new Mills River North Carolina Taproom and enjoy a variety of beers and ciders - paired with delicious food and a great time with friends and family.

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Events UPCOMING

at HIGH COUNTRY

wineries and breweries

BY AMELIE FAWSON

H

High Country wineries and breweries are gearing up for a season of exciting events. From late August through mid-October, here’s a roundup of must-attend events to mark on your calendar.

AUG. 24 • High Country Beer Fest • Live music - Off the Hook at the Speckled Trout Outfitters • Live music by Bryan & Dillon, Brady Seals at Banner Elk Winery • Live music by The Soul Benefactors Grandfather Vineyard and Winery • Live music by Malus Mons Appalachian Mountain Brewery • Live music by Greenhouse Jazz Linville Falls Winery • Live music by Sycamore Bones - Beech Mountain Brewing Company • Live music by Mason Jar Confessions Lost Province Brewing Co. • Live music by Highway 88 — Old Barn Winery AUG. 25 • Live music by Brady Turner Duo Appalachian Mountain Brewery • Live music by Jeff Honeycutt Band Grandfather Vineyard and Winery • Live music by The Embers - Old Barn Winery • Live music by Boukou Groove Linville Falls Winery AUG. 26 • Local Bluegrass jam session Appalachian Mountain Brewery • Brewery Drink and Draw Appalachian Mountain Brewery AUG. 27 • Live music by Scott McKinney Grandfather Vineyard and Winery • Local’s Night - Appalachian Mountain Brewery

AUG. 28 • Live music by Tom Pillion Grandfather Vineyard and Winery AUG. 29 • Live music by Edward Main Grandfather Vineyard and Winery • Live music by Andy Ferrell Duo Linville Falls Winery AUG. 30 • Live music by Smokin’ Joe’s Band Grandfather Vineyard and Winery • Live music by Matt McCloud - Lost Province Brewing Co • Live music by Chris McGinnis Appalachian Mountain Brewery • Live music by Matt McCloud - Lost Province Brewing Co. • Live music by Wayward Blues - Old Barn Winery • Live music by Shelby Rae Moore Band - Linville Falls Winery AUG. 31 • Live music by Toe River Bandits Grandfather Vineyard and Winery • Live music by Loose Lugnuts - Beech Mountain Brewing Co. • Live music by Sycamore Bones - Lost Province Brewing Co. • Live music by Euphoria - Old Barn Winery • Live music by Preston Benfield Linville Falls Winery SEPT. 1 • Live music by Shelby Rae Moore Band - Grandfather Vineyard and Winery • Live music by Too Much Sylvia - Old Barn Winery SEPT. 2 • Brewery Drink and Draw Appalachian Mountain Brewery • Local Bluegrass jam session Appalachian Mountain Brewery • Live music by Edward Main Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 3 • Local’s Night - Appalachian Mountain Brewery SEPT. 4 • Live music by Tom Pillion Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 5 • Live music by Edward Main Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 6 • Live music by The Taylor Party Appalachian Mountain Brewery • Live music by Typical Mountain Boys Grandfather Vineyard and Winery

SEPT. 7 • Live music by Jeff Honeycutt Band Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 8 • Live music by Classic Highway Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 9 • Brewery Drink and Draw Appalachian Mountain Brewery • Local Bluegrass jam session Appalachian Mountain Brewery SEPT. 11 • Live music by Tom Pillion Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 12 • Live music by Edward Main Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 13 • Live music by The Collective Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 14 • Live music by Woodie and the String Pullers - Grandfather Vineyard and Winery • Stomp & Brew - A craft beer, wine, mead, cider and music festival in downtown West Jefferson. Proceeds from the event will benefit Shoes for Kids, a local charity that provides shoes for kids

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in need.

SEPT. 15 • Live music by The Lucky Strikes Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 16 • Live music by Shelby Rae Moore Band, The Harris Brothers - Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 18 • Live music by Tom Pillion Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 19 • Live music by Adam Musick Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 20 • Live music by Tracy & Tyler Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 21 • Oktoberfest - Appalachian Mountain Brewery • Live music by Shelby Rae Moore Band - Grandfather Vineyard and Winery • 12th Annual Grape Stomp - Linville Falls Winery SEPT. 22 • Live music by Handle Bar Betty Grandfather Vineyard and Winery ~ CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

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Banner Elk Winery

Nineteen years ago, Banner Elk Winery and Villa became the first commercial winery to open in Avery County.

Founded by Angelo Accetturo and Richard Wolfe, the winery is located on property that used to be a blueberry farm. Wolfe, the original winemaker, passed away in March of 2022. Even after he left the position of head winemaker, he would come around often, said Emily Billings, tasting room manager at the winery. Wolfe is a huge part of their history and the entire staff misses him dearly, she said.

They offer a blueberry wine to pay tribute to the property’s original use, but they offer more familiar varietals as well, including marechal foch, seyval blanc, cabernet sauvignon and golden muscat. Most of their stock is dry wines, particularly reds, and they keep four

flavors of sangria year-round. In the summertime, they serve their apple orange cinnamon sangria chilled and in the winter, they serve it warm as a mulled wine. Made with grapes from their vineyard as well as local grapes, Banner Elk Winery has produced many award-winning wines, from the state all the way to the international level.

Along with wine tastings, patrons of Banner Elk Winery and Villa can enjoy a glass of wine indoors or outdoors at their covered seating area, the fire pit or one of the gazebos around the pond that’s on the property. There’s live music every weekend, after hours events with the wine club and once a month, they offer yoga before opening.

Banner Elk Winery and Villa is open from noon to 6 p.m. every day except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

AWARD WINNING • TASTINGS YEAR ROUND

VILLA • WINERY • WEDDINGS • EVENTS

Open Daily 12 - 6 pm • 60 Deer Run Lane • Banner Elk, NC 28604 • (828) 898-9090 • www.BannerElkWinery.com

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Located off of mile marker #317 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, there's a little slice of heaven with sweeping vineyard views among rows of Christmas trees.

Linville Falls Winery is a family owned and operated vineyard, winery, and Christmas tree farm in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, and is the culmination of a life-long passion for Jack Wiseman. He dreamed of growing grapes and creating a winery for more than 60 years, and now he works alongside his family pioneering High Country-grown wine. At an elevation of 3,200-3,400 feet, the winery is part of the "Appalachian High Country" viticulture area that is characterized by higher elevation vineyards with warm days and cool evenings, which give way to happy grapes, and in turn, delicious wine. Enjoy wine flights, wine by the glass, or by the bottle, alongside excellent local live music and rotating food trucks on select days. To "Elevate Your Taste in Wine," visit their website www.linvillefallswinery.com or stop by in-person. The winery is open year-round, 7 days a week, only closing around the Christmas holidays.

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BEER & WINE EVENT

FROM

Pupils to Pints

App State preps the next generation of brewers, winemakers

BY LUKE BARBER

I

t takes numerous pipes and pipelines across a brewing system to create the delicious craft beer that the High Country has come to be known for. However, as for the brewers themselves, Appalachian State University provides the pipeline that prepares brewers and winemakers for careers in the industry.

App State’s Bachelor of Science degree in fermentation sciences began in 2012.

As part of the A.R. Smith Department of Chemistry and Fermentation Sciences, within the College of Arts and Sciences, the coursework and instruction is intended to provide students with a strong background in chemistry and biology, as well as a considerable focus in business, marketing and entrepreneurial principles.

Over the past decade, the state has seen an explosion in the number of breweries and wineries that call it home.

App State’s fermentation sciences degree prepares students for careers in these businesses both within the state and across the country.

Examples of well-known national and local brands that student have gone on to gain employment include Novozymes Biotechnology company, Constellation Brands, The Boston Beer Company, Raffaldini Vineyards and Winery, Grandfather Vineyards and Winery, Olde Hickory Brewery, Booneshine Brewing Company, Anheuser-Busch InBev, Rogue Brewery and numerous others.

According to the university,

student employment opportunities at graduation are near 100%.

Furthermore, the university has several partnerships with local vineyards, wineries, breweries, distilleries, and biotechnology businesses to give students real-world experience outside the classroom and prepare them for their careers.

Students within the program will also have the opportunity to work in the App State Chemistry and Fermentation Sciences Service Lab and develop their laboratory techniques while using stateof-the-art instrumentation.

Throughout the entire curriculum, the essentials of the fermentation process are instilled in the students, whether they are learning to make world-class wine or best-selling beer.

During fermentation, microorganisms such as yeast convert sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide.

Several factors can impact the taste and quality of the final product, such as the length of the fermentation process, the quality of water used, the types of hops and malts used in beer making, and the type of grapes used in winemaking.

Beer and winemakers hope their craftsmanship results in a product that is flavorful, aromatic, and pleasant to the palate with the desired alcohol content.

Brewers truly add their own unique twist to their creations, as the brew process can result in a number of unique concoctions, including IPAs, pale ales, witbiers, brown ales, session beers, Vienna-style lagers, saisons, sours, stouts, porters, pilsners, amber

PHOTO COURTESY APP STATE

Guests receive a private tour of the fermentation sciences program facilities at Appalachian State.

ales, and many other unique types of brews.

Meanwhile, the winemaking process is just as diverse and creative, as wines that result include riesling, chardonnay, malbec, sparkling wine, muscat, rose, pinot noir, merlot, zinfandel and many others. Fortunately for the uninitiated,

wine can be separated into two basic categories: red and white.

Those visiting local breweries in Boone and across the High Country can enjoy the fruits of the students’ labor as they take in the wide range of breweries and winners throughout the threecounty region.

It’s everything a general store used to be ... and more!

Grocery • Deli with Patio Dining Wild Bird Supply • Clothing • Hardware “Offering a wide selection of fine local beer and wine from Asheville to Banner Elk, Boone and Linville Falls” Open from 7:30am to 10:00pm Everyday

(828) 387 4838

501 Beech Mountain Parkway | Beech Mountain, NC

www.fredsgeneral.com Come visit us at

Eastern America’s Highest Town

18 • AUGUST 2024 BEER & WINE EVENT

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High Country BREWERIES AND WINERIES

BY CASSIDY NARRON

T

he High Country is ideal for brewing world-class beer thanks to the clean mountain water that flows freely and the array of fresh ingredients from local farmers. When in Boone, try a brew or sip a glass at one or more of the following venues.

BEER Appalachian Mountain Brewing Co. www.amb.beer/ 163 Boone Creek Drive, Boone Appalachian Mountain Brewing Co. was founded in 2013 by cousins Nathan Kelischek and Chris Zieber. AMB is one of the first breweries in Boone and quickly garnered a name for itself. They are known for their award-winning beers, ciders, and delicious wood-fired pizzas. You can find their canned beers and ciders in many stores and restaurants in the area.

A view of Grandfather Vineyard and Winery at sunset.

Booneshine www.booneshine.beer/ 465 Industrial Park Dr., Boone Booneshine is a restaurant and beer garden in Boone. Since 2015, the business has been brewing its iconic beers and ciders. Partnering with local businesses and farmers, it provides fresh and quality tasting experiences.

Parallel Brewing Co. www.parallelbeer.com/ 114 Clement St Boone Located within walking distance of App State’s campus, Parallel Brewing Company is one of the newer breweries in Boone.

They brew a variety of unique IPA’s to meet anyone’s preferences. You can visit their recently opened tasting room to try out their continually rotating lineup of beers.

Lost Province www.lostprovince.com 130 North Depot Street, Boone

PHOTO COURTESY GRANDFATHER VINEYARD AND WINERY

The interior of Appalachian Mountain Brewery.

Lost Province Brewing Company has a brewpub in downtown Boone as well as a taproom at Hardin Creek just off of U.S. 421 in East Boone, which serves as the primary production facility for the business. They also have a taproom at Coyote Kitchen — a popular allergy-friendly restaurant in Boone. Lost Province was at the forefront of expanding the beer scene in the Boone area.

Boone Light Lager, Hipster Juice Hazy IPA, and Kiss My Grits Southern Lager are some craft brews in their ever-growing selection.

South End Brewing Co. southendbrewing.com/ 747 W King St., Boone Another of the newer breweries in Boone is South End Brewing Co. The flagship South End brewery opened in Greensboro in 2019, and in 2023, South End Brewing Co. was brought to Boone, where it all began. South End Brewing Co.’s journey began when Aram Kevorkian took a brew class at Appalachian State University and he shared his passion for brewing with his family. The two locations are home to craft beer, a liquor bar and a full restaurant.

Blowing Rock Brewing Co blowingrockbrewing.com/ 152 Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock Blowing Rock Brewing Co. opened in historic Blowing Rock in 2013. Today, their brews are sold in retailers and restaurants statewide. They have won gold, silver, and bronze awards for excellence in the Carolina Championships of Beer Awards.

Kettell Beerworks

PHOTO BY TIM ROBINSON COURTESY AMB

kettellbeerworks.com/ 567 Main St E, Banner Elk Kettell Beerworks was founded in 2010 and was recently bought by Joe and Susan Royall in January. This family-owned brewery prides itself on being one of the few breweries in Avery County and offers a wide array of beer, pizza, pretzels, and a game room.

Beech Mountain Brewing Co www.beechmountainbrewingco.com/ 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain Beech Mountain Brewing Co. is located in the village of Beech Mountain Resort and is open to the general public. It has a cozy ski resort atmosphere with a large fireplace and is a social hub perfect for winding down after a day on the mountain. Last year they introduced the Red Baron Room, a 1914 speakeasy-style bar serving cocktails.

WINE The Appalachian High Country was recognized in 2016 as one of 200 American Viticulture Areas in the country. This means that wines produced in the area are extremely high quality.

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery grandfathervineyard.com/ 225 Vineyard Ln, Banner Elk Owned and operated by the Tatum family, Grandfather Vineyard and Winery sits on 10+ acres, five of which are the vineyards where French-American hybrid grapes grow. Since its inception in 2011, ~ CONTINUED ON TOP NEXT PAGE

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the business has worked with growers from coast to coast to bring its patrons a wide selection of wines.

Banner Elk Winery https://www.bannerelkwinery.com/ 135 Deer Run Ln, Banner Elk Banner Elk Winery opened in 2005 and, according to its website, is the most acclaimed winery in the High Country, having won numerous international and

local awards.

You can purchase their wine by the bottle on their website or visit in person for a luxury tasting experience. It is also the first commercial winery built in Avery and Watauga counties.

Old Barn Winery and Vineyards oldbarnwinery.com/ 2152 Beaver Creek School Rd, West Jefferson

At Old Barn Winery and Vineyards, grapevines grow alongside Christmas trees.

The land these vines grow on has been passed down for four generations. Old Barn Winery offers a wide variety of red, white, and rose wines. Experience downtown West Jefferson via the Old Barn Winery trolley at no cost. The trolley makes stops at Ashe County Cheese and Old Barn Winery.

Eagles Nest Winery

eaglesnestwinery.net/ 1965 Old Beech Mountain Road, Elk Park Eagles Nest Winery is a great place to enjoy world-class wine beside an outdoor fireplace while enjoying stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Eagles Nest offers annual memberships and day passes, which provides access to wine tastings, chef-prepared meals, and live music.

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SEPT. 29 • Live music by The Neighbors Grandfather Vineyard and Winery • Flower Cart Pop-up - Linville Falls Winery SEPT. 30 • Live music by Scott McKinneyGrandfather Vineyard and Winery OCT. 1 • Live music by Scott McKinney Grandfather Vineyard and Winery OCT. 2 • Live music by Tom Pillion Grandfather Vineyard and Winery OCT. 3 • Live music by Edward Main -

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery OCT. 4 • Live music by Shelby Rae Moore Band - Grandfather Vineyard and Winery OCT. 5 • Cider on the Mountain - Appalachian Mountain Brewery • Live music by The Collective Grandfather Vineyard and Winery OCT. 6 • Live music by Scarlet Lemonade Grandfather Vineyard and Winery OCT. 7 • Live music by Scott McKinney Grandfather Vineyard and Winery OCT. 8

• Live music by Scott McKinney Grandfather Vineyard and Winery OCT. 9 • Live music by Tom Pillion Grandfather Vineyard and Winery OCT. 10 • Live music by Edward Main Grandfather Vineyard and Winery OCT. 11 • Live music by The Harris Brothers Grandfather Vineyard and Winery OCT. 12 - 13 • Oktoberfest at Sugar Mountain Resort All events are subject to change. Make sure to visit the brewery or winery website for any updates and more information.

SEPT. 25 • Live music by Tom Pillion Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 26 • Live music by Adam Musick Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 27 • Live music by The Harris Brothers Grandfather Vineyard and Winery SEPT. 28 • Live music by Smokin’ Joe’s Band Grandfather Vineyard and Winery • Live music by Jack Warff & the Tobacco Flats - Beech Mountain Brewing Co.

The Beerfest After Party Sat the 24th: Skip the line with a Beerfest Wristband Voted Best Wings and Best Sports Bar in the High Country!

957 Rivers Street Boone, NC 28607

(828) 264-8100

Boone's Best Microbrew Selection with 20 beers on tap.

CRAFT BEERS • DELICIOUS FOOD • LIVE SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Grandfather Vineyard & Winery opened the doors to their tasting room in May 2011. Steve and Sally Tatum, purchased the property in 2000, with the idea of planting Christmas Trees - a popular endeavor in the area - but a love of wine led them to plant their first round of grape vines in 2003. The road that led to Grandfather Vineyard and Winery started with family. Steve and Sally met in 1977 while working together in the ski industry. Years later, as married Tatums, the couple formed Tatum Galleries in Banner Elk, an interior design firm and furniture gallery, in 1985. Steve has always been a woodworker, custom making furniture for Tatum Galleries as well as using his skill for the exquisite design of the Tasting Room. The true success of their wine comes from Steve and Sally's son, Dylan Tatum. In the early 2000s, Dylan left home to study viticulture and oenology at Surry College. After earning his degree, he moved back to the Banner Elk area and enrolled at Appalachian State University to complete the Business and Entrepreneurial program.

Equipped with a new understanding of business and wine, Dylan was approached by his dad with the idea to sell the grapes they had been growing to local wineries. Dylan, however, found himself enamored with the process behind wine, and thus the Winery was born. With over a decade in business, the Winery has exceeded all of their expectations. Part of this boom came from the accounting and sales prowess of Nicole Winder. Nicole is a Florida native who met Dylan and fell in love four days after her move to the area in 2014. Three years later, in the summer of 2017, Nicole became a Tatum when she married Dylan on the property of Grandfather Vineyard. Together, Nicole & Dylan run the day to day operations managing the Tasting Room and Wine operations.

Centrally located between Boone & Banner Elk, you'll find our estate hillside vineyard 15 minutes from either direction. Our 10 acre property, nestled at the base of Grandfather Mountain, boasts seating along the Watauga River where you can relax with a glass of wine and enjoy the tranquility of nature. We are open year round and specialize in wine for all palettes! We offer Dry white & red, Sparkling, Rose and sweet.

Our preselected flights are offered everyday and are accompanied by curated tasting notes and palette cleansers. In addition you can purchase wine by the glass or the bottle. Currently, we produce roughly 6000 cases of wine per year and hope to increase that number to 10,000 cases since we just built our new production facility in the fall of 2023. We offer live music and food trucks most days during the summer and fall season (and on the weekends during the winter and spring when weather permits). The tasting room also supports a wide array of local artisans, from charcuterie and snacks to local musicians and art vendors. This pet and family-friendly establishment offers something for everyone! Visit our website for more information including our full music and event calendar www.grandfathervineyards.com