Beer Explorer

What are the best breweries in North Carolina? Whether you’re traveling or this is your home, how do you find the breweries that offer top craft beer in North Carolina so you can know which ones are the most worthwhile to check out? We’ve compiled a list of the top-rated breweries in North Carolina, based upon the ratings of actual fellow beer-lovers on Untapped. We hope this brewery guide will aid you in your brewery exploration of The Old North State so that you can maximize your beer and brewery enjoyment. Happy beer exploring!

#10 Trophy Brewing Company – 3.87 average Untapped rating

Trophy Brewing Company is a renowned craft brewery with multiple locations in Raleigh, North Carolina. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Trophy Brewing Company:

1. **Location**: Trophy Brewing Company operates three locations in Raleigh, North Carolina. These include the Trophy Tap & Table, Trophy Brewing & Pizza Co., and Trophy Brewing & Pizza on Morgan. Each location offers a unique atmosphere and experience for visitors.

2. **Founding**: Trophy Brewing Company was founded by Chris Powers, David “Woody” Lockwood, and David Meeker. The brewery opened its doors in 2013, quickly gaining popularity for its creative beers and delicious pizzas.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Trophy Brewing Company is dedicated to crafting innovative and flavorful beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles. They focus on using high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations to create memorable brews that appeal to a wide range of palates.

4. **Beer Selection**: Trophy Brewing Company offers a diverse lineup of beers, including IPAs, stouts, saisons, sours, and more. They frequently release new and limited-edition brews, keeping their tap lists fresh and exciting for visitors. Some popular offerings include “Trophy Wife” IPA, “Best in Show” pale ale, and various rotating seasonal beers.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Each of Trophy Brewing Company’s locations provides a welcoming and lively atmosphere for guests to enjoy craft beer and delicious food. The taprooms feature stylish decor, ample seating, and a relaxed vibe that encourages socializing and enjoyment. Visitors can sample a variety of beers on tap, order artisanal pizzas, and participate in brewery events and special releases.

6. **Distribution**: Trophy Brewing Company distributes its beers to select bars, restaurants, and bottle shops throughout North Carolina. They also offer online ordering and local delivery options for customers who prefer to enjoy their beers at home. Additionally, their taprooms serve as popular destinations for locals and tourists alike to sample Trophy Brewing Company’s offerings.

Overall, Trophy Brewing Company is a beloved fixture in the Raleigh craft beer scene, known for its exceptional beers, delicious pizzas, and vibrant taproom experiences. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, food lover, or simply looking for a fun and welcoming atmosphere, Trophy Brewing Company offers something special for everyone to enjoy.

#9 Oaklyn Springs Brewery – 3.87 average Untapped rating

Oaklyn Springs Brewery is a craft brewery located in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Oaklyn Springs Brewery:

1. **Location**: Oaklyn Springs Brewery is situated in Fuquay-Varina, a charming town in Wake County known for its historic downtown area and burgeoning craft beer scene. The brewery’s location provides a welcoming and accessible space for locals and visitors alike to enjoy craft beer.

2. **Founding**: Oaklyn Springs Brewery was founded by Kevin and Kari Thorpe, who are passionate about brewing exceptional beer and creating a gathering place for the community. The brewery opened its doors in [Year], with a focus on producing high-quality, small-batch beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Oaklyn Springs Brewery is dedicated to brewing a diverse range of beers that showcase quality ingredients and creative recipes. They prioritize craftsmanship and attention to detail in every batch, striving to create memorable and flavorful brews for their customers to enjoy.

4. **Beer Selection**: Oaklyn Springs Brewery offers a rotating selection of beers, including a variety of styles such as IPAs, stouts, porters, pale ales, and seasonal specialties. They frequently introduce new and experimental brews to keep their beer menu fresh and exciting for visitors.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Oaklyn Springs Brewery’s taproom provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests to relax and socialize over a pint of craft beer. The space features comfortable seating, friendly staff, and a laid-back vibe that encourages conversation and camaraderie among patrons.

6. **Distribution**: Oaklyn Springs Brewery primarily sells its beers directly from its taproom, offering both on-site consumption and to-go options such as crowlers and growler fills. While their focus is on serving customers in their taproom, they may also distribute limited quantities of their beers to local bars, restaurants, and bottle shops.

Overall, Oaklyn Springs Brewery is a beloved destination for craft beer enthusiasts in Fuquay-Varina and beyond, known for its quality beers, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to community engagement. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or a newcomer to the craft beer scene, Oaklyn Springs Brewery offers a memorable and enjoyable experience for all who visit.

#8 The Glass Jug Beer Lab – 3.87 average Untapped rating

The Glass Jug Beer Lab is a craft brewery and beer shop located in Durham, North Carolina. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of The Glass Jug Beer Lab:

1. **Location**: The Glass Jug Beer Lab is situated in Durham, a city known for its vibrant culture, culinary scene, and craft beer community. Located in the Research Triangle region of North Carolina, Durham provides a dynamic backdrop for The Glass Jug Beer Lab’s operations.

2. **Founding**: The Glass Jug Beer Lab was founded by Chris Creech and Katy Creech, who are passionate about craft beer and community engagement. The brewery and beer shop opened its doors in 2014, initially focusing on offering a wide selection of craft beers from local and regional breweries.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: The Glass Jug Beer Lab is dedicated to brewing high-quality, innovative beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles. They emphasize experimentation and creativity, often incorporating unique ingredients and brewing techniques into their recipes.

4. **Beer Selection**: The Glass Jug Beer Lab offers a diverse lineup of beers, including IPAs, stouts, saisons, sours, and experimental ales. They rotate their beer selection frequently, featuring both house-made brews and guest taps from other breweries. This ensures a fresh and ever-changing beer menu for visitors to enjoy.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The Glass Jug Beer Lab’s taproom provides a casual and inviting atmosphere for guests to sample a wide variety of beers. The space features ample seating, a laid-back vibe, and knowledgeable staff who are passionate about craft beer. Visitors can enjoy flights, pints, and growler fills while socializing with friends or participating in brewery events and trivia nights.

6. **Distribution**: The Glass Jug Beer Lab primarily sells its beers directly from its taproom and retail shop, offering both on-site consumption and to-go options such as crowlers and growler fills. They occasionally distribute limited quantities of their beers to local bars, restaurants, and bottle shops.

Overall, The Glass Jug Beer Lab is a beloved fixture in Durham’s craft beer scene, known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a casual drinker, The Glass Jug Beer Lab offers a welcoming and enjoyable experience for all.

#7 Haw River Farmhouse Ales – 3.89 average Untapped rating

Haw River Farmhouse Ales is a craft brewery located in Saxapahaw, North Carolina, known for its focus on Belgian-style and farmhouse ales. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Haw River Farmhouse Ales:

1. **Location**: Haw River Farmhouse Ales is situated in Saxapahaw, a small town located along the Haw River in Alamance County, North Carolina. The brewery’s location in a scenic rural setting adds to its charm and appeal.

2. **Founding**: Haw River Farmhouse Ales was founded by Ben Woodward, Dawnya Broadwell, and other members of the Woodward family. The brewery opened its doors in 2014 with a mission to brew artisanal farmhouse-style ales inspired by Belgian brewing traditions.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Haw River Farmhouse Ales is dedicated to crafting high-quality, small-batch beers that reflect the terroir of North Carolina. They specialize in Belgian-style ales, including saisons, farmhouse ales, and sour beers, often incorporating locally sourced ingredients and spontaneous fermentation techniques.

4. **Beer Selection**: Haw River Farmhouse Ales offers a diverse lineup of beers, with a focus on traditional Belgian styles and innovative twists. Their beer selection includes flagship offerings like the “Regent’s Rye Tripel” and “St. Benedict’s Breakfast Dubbel,” as well as seasonal and limited-edition releases that showcase their creativity and experimentation.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Haw River Farmhouse Ales’ taproom provides a rustic and cozy atmosphere for guests to enjoy their beers. The brewery’s location in Saxapahaw’s historic mill village adds to its ambiance, with views of the Haw River and nearby outdoor amenities. Visitors can sample a variety of draft beers, purchase bottles to go, and participate in brewery events and live music performances.

6. **Distribution**: Haw River Farmhouse Ales primarily sells its beers directly from its taproom, although they also distribute a limited selection of bottles and kegs to select bars, restaurants, and bottle shops throughout North Carolina. They occasionally participate in beer festivals and collaborate with other breweries for special releases.

Overall, Haw River Farmhouse Ales has earned a reputation for brewing distinctive and flavorful beers inspired by Belgian traditions while embracing the spirit of innovation and collaboration. With their commitment to quality, community, and creativity, they continue to be a beloved fixture in North Carolina’s craft beer landscape.

#6 Bond Brothers Beer Company – 3.91 average Untapped rating

Bond Brothers Beer Company is a craft brewery located in Cary, North Carolina, known for its high-quality beers and community-focused approach. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Bond Brothers Beer Company:

1. **Location**: Bond Brothers Beer Company is situated in Cary, a town in the Research Triangle region of North Carolina known for its vibrant community and growing craft beer scene.

2. **Founding**: Bond Brothers Beer Company was founded by Jay and Jeremy Bond, two brothers with a passion for brewing exceptional beer. The brewery opened its doors in 2016 and has since become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Bond Brothers Beer Company is dedicated to brewing high-quality, innovative beers that showcase a wide range of styles and flavors. They prioritize quality ingredients and meticulous brewing techniques to create beers that are both approachable and distinct.

4. **Beer Selection**: Bond Brothers Beer Company offers a diverse lineup of beers, including IPAs, stouts, porters, saisons, and barrel-aged ales. They are known for their hop-forward IPAs, complex barrel-aged beers, and seasonal releases that highlight local ingredients.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Bond Brothers Beer Company’s taproom provides a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere for guests to enjoy their beers. The space features ample seating, a rustic aesthetic, and a friendly staff. Visitors can sample a variety of draft beers, purchase cans to go, and participate in brewery events and special releases.

6. **Distribution**: Bond Brothers Beer Company primarily sells its beers directly from its taproom, although they also distribute a limited selection of cans to local bars, restaurants, and bottle shops. They occasionally participate in beer festivals and collaborate with other breweries for special releases.

Overall, Bond Brothers Beer Company has earned a reputation for brewing exceptional beers and fostering a sense of community in Cary and beyond. With their dedication to quality, innovation, and community engagement, they continue to be a driving force in North Carolina’s craft beer industry.

#5 DSSOLVR – 3.94 average Untapped rating

DSSOLVR is a brewery located in Asheville, North Carolina, known for its innovative and experimental approach to brewing. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of DSSOLVR:

1. **Location**: DSSOLVR is situated in Asheville, a city in western North Carolina renowned for its vibrant craft beer scene and surrounded by the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains.

2. **Founding**: DSSOLVR was founded by Joey Soukup, Andrew Schwab, and Vince Tursi. The brewery opened its doors in 2019, quickly gaining attention for its unique beers and artistic approach to brewing.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: DSSOLVR is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles and experimenting with unconventional ingredients and techniques. They embrace a “liquid art” ethos, viewing beer as a medium for creative expression and exploration.

4. **Beer Selection**: DSSOLVR offers a diverse range of beers, including IPAs, sours, stouts, and experimental ales. They are known for their bold flavors, intricate brewing processes, and limited-edition releases that showcase their innovative spirit.

5. **Taproom Experience**: DSSOLVR’s taproom provides a welcoming and immersive experience for visitors. The space features a stylish and modern design, with ample seating, artwork, and a relaxed atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a rotating selection of draft beers, often including brewery-exclusive releases and small-batch experiments.

6. **Distribution**: DSSOLVR primarily sells its beers directly from its taproom, although they occasionally distribute limited quantities to local bars, restaurants, and bottle shops. Their focus on small-batch production and experimental brewing means that many of their beers are available exclusively at the brewery.

Overall, DSSOLVR has quickly established itself as a notable player in Asheville’s craft beer scene, attracting beer enthusiasts and curious drinkers alike with its innovative approach to brewing and commitment to creativity and quality.

#4 Brewery Bhavana – 3.96 average Untapped rating

Brewery Bhavana is a unique brewery located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Brewery Bhavana:

1. **Location**: Brewery Bhavana is situated in downtown Raleigh, the capital city of North Carolina. The brewery’s location in the heart of the city makes it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

2. **Founding**: Brewery Bhavana was founded by Patrick Woodson, Vanvisa Nolintha, and Vansana Nolintha, who are also the owners of Bida Manda, a popular Laotian restaurant located adjacent to the brewery. Brewery Bhavana opened its doors in 2017 with the vision of combining craft beer, Asian cuisine, literature, and floral design under one roof.

3. **Concept**: Brewery Bhavana is not only a brewery but also a dim sum restaurant, bookstore, and flower shop, all housed within the same space. The founders wanted to create a multifaceted experience that celebrates the beauty of life through beer, food, literature, and flowers.

4. **Brewing Philosophy**: Brewery Bhavana is dedicated to producing high-quality and innovative beers that draw inspiration from both traditional and modern brewing techniques. They offer a diverse range of beer styles, including IPAs, saisons, stouts, and sour ales, often incorporating unique ingredients and flavor profiles.

5. **Beer Selection**: Brewery Bhavana’s beer selection is constantly evolving, with a rotating lineup of draft beers available in their taproom. They are known for their creative and well-crafted brews that appeal to a wide range of palates, from beer aficionados to casual drinkers.

6. **Taproom Experience**: Brewery Bhavana’s taproom offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with ample seating, a stylish decor, and friendly staff. Visitors can enjoy a pint of beer while sampling dim sum dishes from the restaurant’s menu or browsing through the selection of books and flowers.

Overall, Brewery Bhavana offers a unique and immersive experience that combines craft beer, food, literature, and floral design in a beautifully curated space. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for a place to relax and unwind, Brewery Bhavana provides a one-of-a-kind destination in downtown Raleigh.

#3 Funguys Brewing – 4.08 average Untapped rating

Overview coming soon!

#2 New Anthem Beer Project 4.09 average Untapped rating

New Anthem Beer Project is a craft brewery located in Wilmington, North Carolina. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of New Anthem Beer Project:

1. **Location**: New Anthem Beer Project is situated in Wilmington, a coastal city in southeastern North Carolina. Wilmington’s vibrant culture and growing craft beer scene provide an ideal setting for a brewery.

2. **Founding**: New Anthem Beer Project was founded by Aaron Skiles and Zac Brown, two friends with a passion for craft beer and brewing. The brewery opened its doors in 2016 with the aim of creating unique and flavorful beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: New Anthem Beer Project is dedicated to producing hop-forward and innovative beers that emphasize quality, creativity, and freshness. They focus on using high-quality ingredients, including locally sourced hops and grains, to craft a diverse range of beers that appeal to both seasoned craft beer enthusiasts and newcomers to the scene.

4. **Beer Selection**: New Anthem Beer Project offers a wide variety of beers, with a particular focus on hoppy styles such as IPAs and pale ales. They are known for their bold and aromatic hop profiles, as well as their experimental and limited-edition releases that showcase new and exciting flavor combinations.

5. **Taproom Experience**: New Anthem Beer Project operates a welcoming and laid-back taproom at its brewery location in Wilmington. The taproom features a cozy atmosphere with communal seating areas, a relaxed vibe, and often hosts events, live music, and food trucks. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of draft beers, including brewery-exclusive releases and seasonal offerings.

6. **Distribution**: New Anthem Beer Project distributes its beers primarily throughout North Carolina, with occasional releases available in neighboring states. They also collaborate with other breweries for special releases and participate in beer festivals and events to showcase their beers to a wider audience.

Overall, New Anthem Beer Project has established itself as a prominent and respected brewery in North Carolina, known for its dedication to quality, innovation, and community involvement. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Wilmington, a visit to New Anthem Beer Project offers a chance to experience some of the finest craft beers the region has to offer.

#1 Burial Beer Co – 4.14 average Untapped rating

Burial Beer Co. is a craft brewery located in Asheville, North Carolina. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Burial Beer Co:

1. **Location**: Burial Beer Co. is situated in Asheville, a city in western North Carolina known for its vibrant craft beer scene. Asheville’s location in the Blue Ridge Mountains and its reputation as Beer City USA make it an ideal spot for a craft brewery.

2. **Founding**: Burial Beer Co. was founded in 2013 by Doug and Jessica Reiser, and Tim Gormley. The founders, who shared a passion for craft beer and community, established the brewery with the goal of creating innovative and flavorful beers while celebrating the art and culture of Asheville.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Burial Beer Co. is dedicated to brewing unique and high-quality beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles. They draw inspiration from a variety of sources, including culinary traditions, artistic expressions, and cultural influences, resulting in a diverse lineup of innovative and creative brews.

4. **Beer Selection**: Burial Beer Co. offers a wide range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, porters, saisons, sours, and barrel-aged specialties. They are known for their hop-forward IPAs, complex and robust stouts, and experimental small-batch releases that showcase a variety of ingredients and brewing techniques.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Burial Beer Co. operates a popular and inviting taproom at its brewery location in Asheville. The taproom features a rustic and industrial-chic atmosphere, with communal seating areas, outdoor space, and often hosts events, live music, and food trucks. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of draft beers, including brewery-exclusive releases and limited-edition offerings.

6. **Distribution**: Burial Beer Co. distributes its beers throughout North Carolina and select markets across the Southeast. They also occasionally collaborate with other breweries for special releases and participate in beer festivals and events.

Overall, Burial Beer Co. has become a prominent and respected brewery in North Carolina, known for its commitment to quality, creativity, and community. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or a visitor to Asheville, a visit to Burial Beer Co. offers a chance to experience the best of Asheville’s craft beer culture.