Written by Macy Elliott, UNC Greensboro

Black Mountain, North Carolina is quickly becoming a favorite destination for craft beer and spirit enthusiasts. Surrounded by the Black Mountain Range, our beautiful town in the Swannanoa River Valley has a large craft brewing scene and unique distilleries. All of these venues also host live music and other events year-round! Here’s your guide to some of the best places to sample the freshly-brewed and distilled flavors of Black Mountain. Note: As of late Fall 2024, ALL venues have reopened following Hurricane Helene.

Black Mountain Brewing

A newer addition to the town’s craft beer scene, Black Mountain Brewing has quickly become a staple. The brewery’s focus is on producing quality brews inspired by the surrounding mountains, while also emphasizing on sustainable practices. The small taproom often hosts community events and fundraisers, adding to its local charm.

What to Try: Their Revelation IPA and Tolstoy’s Beard Stout are local favorites. For a refreshing option, try their Easy Blonde Ale, perfect for a warm day.

Lookout Brewing Company

Lookout Brewing is a small-batch brewery that offers a cozy tasting experience. Known for its mountain-themed brews and welcoming atmosphere, Lookout is where locals gather for a laid-back experience. The brewery’s small size allows for frequent menu changes and experimentation with ingredients, so there’s always something new to try.

What to Try: The Lookout Pale Ale and Black Mountain Blonde are popular choices, but if you’re feeling adventurous, ask about any small-batch or experimental brews available.

Oak & Grist Distilling Company

Oak & Grist Distilling Company brings something unique with its craft spirits. Specializing in locally sourced gin and whiskey, Oak & Grist uses a grain-to-glass approach, where each step happens in-house, ensuring high quality. The distillery’s tasting room also provides an educational experience for visitors interested in learning about the distilling process.

What to Try: The Highland Harvest Gin features botanical flavors inspired by the mountains, while the single malt whiskey offers a smooth, smoky profile perfect for sipping.

Pisgah Brewing Company

Named for the nearby Pisgah National Forest, Pisgah Brewing Company is a must-visit for any beer lover. Pisgah has built a strong reputation for its dedication to high-quality ingredients and creative brews. Located just outside of town, the brewery’s outdoor venue is a favorite local spot for live music, food trucks, and community events.

What to Try: Start with their flagship Pisgah Pale Ale, known for its balanced and hoppy flavor. Seasonal offerings, like the Pumpkin Saison or Greybeard IPA, are also worth sampling.

Whistle Hop Brewing Company

Located just outside Black Mountain in nearby Fairview, Whistle Hop Brewing is worth the short drive for its unique setting. The brewery operates out of vintage train cars, with an outdoor space offering incredible views of the mountains. Known for its creative and playful approach, Whistle Hop is a family-friendly spot, complete with outdoor games and a laid-back vibe.

What to Try: The Jalapeño Saison and Train Hopper IPA are popular options, but their rotating seasonal brews keep locals and visitors coming back for more.

Plan your Black Mountain craft beverage tour

Whether you’re a fan of beer, gin, or whiskey, Black Mountain’s growing craft beverage scene has something for everyone. Each stop on this list brings its own personality, so gather your friends and get ready to enjoy some of the best brews North Carolina has to offer! CLICK HERE for more information and to start planning your Black Mountain getaway.

A Partnership with Purpose

About this Story: Students in Dr. Sara MacSween’s Advanced Marketing Management class at UNC Greensboro partnered with the Town of Black Mountain in Fall 2024 to promote the town’s reopening following Hurricane Helene and its ongoing marketing efforts. The North Carolina Department of Commerce, Rural Economic Development Division announced in January 2023 that thirty-four local governments from across the state, including Black Mountain, would participate in the Creating Outdoor Recreation Economies (CORE) Program. This collaboration is supported by an U.S. Economic Development Administration State Tourism Grant. CLICK HERE to learn more about the partnership.

About the Author: This blog story was written by Macy Elliott (Class of 2024), a UNCG senior marketing major with a concentration in social media. Her stated career goals include joining a marketing team focused on social media for sports teams or the business side of marketing.

Top craft breweries and distilleries to visit in Black Mountain, NC