Cary, NC Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Brewery Trail
Cary, North Carolina is rapidly carving out a reputation as a haven for craft beer enthusiasts. In the heart of the state, Cary offers a diverse array of breweries and beer gardens that cater to the tastes of locals and visitors alike. This town showcases the booming craft beer culture in North Carolina, reflecting a nationwide trend towards unique, locally-produced beverages. With an impressive selection of establishments featuring craft beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and everything in between, Cary stands out as a destination for those seeking to explore the art of brewing.
The local beer scene in Cary is not just about the variety but also the quality of the craft beers on offer. In recent years, several breweries have risen to prominence, gaining accolades for both their innovative brewing techniques and their community-focused atmospheres. These establishments often feature outdoor seating, family-friendly environments, and even dog-friendly areas, making them a staple in the community's social fabric. The growth of the craft beer industry in Cary is reflective of a community that values craftsmanship and supports local businesses.
Breweries in downtown Cary and the surrounding area provide not just libations but also a space for social gatherings, making beer a central element in fostering community ties. With a focus on local ingredients and unique flavor profiles, Cary's craft breweries serve as a vibrant example of North Carolina's dedication to quality and variety in the craft beer market. Whether one is new to the world of craft beer or a seasoned aficionado, Cary's welcoming beer scene offers an inviting exploration of tastes for every palate.
Brief History of Craft Beer in Cary, NC
Cary, North Carolina, has witnessed the blooming of its local beer scene over recent years. The town's craft beer journey can be traced to the establishment of its first brewery, Fortnight Brewing Company. Inspired by English beer culture, Fortnight introduced a variety of ales to Cary with an English twist, becoming a beloved part of the community on SW Maynard Road.
As the local demand for craft beer grew, new players entered the scene. Cotton House Craft Brewers emerged as a notable entrant, setting up their tap house in Downtown Cary. They diversified the local offering with their beers and also provided additional choices, including wine, cider, and non-alcoholic beverages. This highlighted the town's evolution into a destination that caters to varied tastes.
Craft Beer Cellar boasts a curated selection of brews, and their presence in Cary emphasizes the town's enthusiasm for craft beers. With a dozen or so beers, most sourced from North Carolina, they reflect Cary's commitment to promoting local products.
Fortnight Brewing Company
First Cary brewery
English-style ales
Cotton House Craft Brewers
Diverse offerings including local beer
Located in Downtown Cary
Craft Beer Cellar
Selection of North Carolina beers
Supports local brewing
The impact of local craft breweries on Cary's cultural and economic life has been significant, creating not just a local market for artisanal products but also establishing the town as a destination for craft beer enthusiasts. The trajectory of Cary's craft beer history suggests a community that values local production and an experience that extends beyond mere consumption.
Top Cary Breweries
Cary, North Carolina, hosts an impressive selection of craft breweries, each offering a distinctive atmosphere and diverse brews. Bond Brothers Beer Company stands out with its array of IPAs, Stouts, Berliner Weisses, and Cream Ales. Known for being family and dog-friendly, it adds to the community vibe of downtown Cary.
Fortnight Brewing Company is another gem that caters to those who appreciate British-style ales. With ample parking and outdoor seating, it’s suitable for groups looking to enjoy social gatherings within social distancing guidelines.
The presence of Cotton House Craft Brewers is notable too, housed in a historic home, they present a unique experience for craft beer aficionados. Their selections often emphasize local ingredients and traditional methods.
Lastly, the Cary Beer Guide suggests that the local beer scene includes several other breweries with outdoor seating and extensive selections of both local and national craft beers, providing something for every taste – from hoppy IPAs to rare finds like Cantillon.
Brewery Special Notes
Bond Brothers Beer Company Family-friendly, dog-friendly, varied beer menu
Fortnight Brewing Company British-style ales, ample outdoor seating
Cotton House Craft Brewers Historic venue, local ingredients
These breweries have brought significant buzz to Cary's craft beer scene, promising experiences that are as rich and varied as their brew offerings.
Discovering Cary's Craft Beer
In Cary, North Carolina, the thrust of the local craft beer scene is propelled by a vibrant quartet of breweries, each bringing its unique flair to the city's ale tapestry. Craft beer aficionados are drawn to Cary for its diverse selection that reflects the ingenuity and character of the region.
Bond Brothers Beer Company
Bond Brothers Beer Company serves as a cornerstone of the Cary craft beer community, distinguishing itself with an eclectic array of locally brewed beers. They feature a robust selection that caters to all palates, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, often sourcing ingredients from within the state to support other local businesses.
Cotton House Craft Brewers
Housed in a historic home in downtown Cary, Cotton House Craft Brewers blends tradition with innovation. Their beers are crafted with a nod to North Carolina's rich agricultural heritage, offering patrons a taste of classic styles reinterpreted with a modern twist.
Fortnight Brewing Company
Fortnight Brewing Company taps into the essence of traditional English beers while infusing them with American creativity. Their selection showcases an emphasis on cask ales and offers a transatlantic journey through pints, combining the best of both worlds in a convivial atmosphere.
Raleigh Brewing at the Arboretum
Raleigh Brewing at the Arboretum extends its reach to Cary, where it presents an array of beers that celebrate local culture and community. With options ranging from their iconic House of Clay IPA to more adventurous seasonal releases, the brewery emphasizes quality and consistency in every batch.
The Craft Beer Experience
The craft beer experience in Cary, NC, is rich with variety, involving not only the tasting of local brews but also community engagement through events, food pairings, and accommodating spaces for beer lovers and their canine companions.
Tasting Rooms and Beer Gardens
Cary hosts several tasting rooms and beer gardens where patrons can savor a selection of local craft beers. Bond Brothers Beer Company is a standout with its wide array of IPAs, Stouts, and Cream Ales. These establishments boast tables in open, airy spaces with abundant natural light, providing an inviting atmosphere. Additionally, beer gardens like Liquid Taproom by Liquid Beverage Company often feature outdoor seating that enhances the communal vibe.
Events and Community Engagement
Local breweries and beer companies routinely organize events that bond the community and beer enthusiasts. At the forefront, Bond Brothers Beer Company hosts the NC Beer Mile, attracting participants with the challenge of drinking beer and running a mile. Their event calendar is replete with occasions ranging from attempts to break Guinness World Records to local art and theater showcases.
Food Pairings and Offerings
Besides beer, many establishments in Cary put a spotlight on their culinary offerings. The presence of food trucks or in-house menus with items like pizza ensures that patrons have a range of food pairings to complement their craft beer selections. This component is essential, as it adds another layer to the beer tasting experience, with pairing suggestions often available to enhance the flavors of both the beer and the food.
Dog-Friendly Establishments
Cary also caters to pet owners with dog-friendly breweries, which are increasingly popular. Patrons can enjoy their beers in a relaxed setting with their furry friends by their side. Establishments such as Bond Brothers Beer Company emphasize inclusivity, ensuring amenities are available so all family members, including dogs, can be comfortable throughout their visit.
Variety of Beers Available in Cary
Cary, North Carolina, offers an impressive array of craft beers, ranging from local seasonally brewed specialties to an exploration of diverse beer styles that cater to every palate.
Local and Seasonal Specialties
Cary's breweries take pride in their locally sourced ingredients, often releasing seasonal specialties that delight residents and visitors alike. The Moravian Rhapsody, for instance, is a local favorite that reflects the historical flavors of the region. Breweries like Bond Brothers Beer Company and Fortnight Brewing are known to craft innovative seasonal releases, ensuring that the selection is ever-evolving and reflects the changing seasons with varieties such as rich stouts in the winter and refreshing Berliner Weisses in the summer.
Exploring Different Beer Styles
The craft beer selection in Cary is not only locally inspired but also includes a broad range of beer styles. From the hop-forward IPAs to smooth cream ales, there is no shortage of options. Beer enthusiasts can find an array of styles, including the trendy Hazy Daze IPA, which offers a juicy, less bitter experience. Amidst the wide selection, the following styles are commonly found:
Beer Style Description
Stouts Dark, rich beers with a roasted malt flavor.
IPAs Hoppy and often with a higher alcohol content.
Cream Ales Light, smooth ales that are easy to drink.
Hazy IPAs A substyle of IPAs, known for their cloudy appearance and juicy flavor.
Whether one prefers the robustness of a stout or the crispness of a cream ale, Cary's beer selection is extensive, ensuring that patrons can always find something to suit their tastes.
The Homebrewing Scene
Cary, North Carolina's craft beer enthusiasm extends beyond local breweries to a thriving homebrewing scene. Enthusiasts find the area ripe with resources and supportive communities geared towards the creation of personal brews ranging from cask ales to more experimental varieties.
Homebrewing Supplies and Resources
Atlantic Brew Supply serves as a pivotal resource for Cary homebrewers. It provides a comprehensive array of supplies that cater to both novice and seasoned homebrewers. One can find:
Equipment: Ranging from starter kits to advanced brewing systems.
Ingredients: A vast selection of grains, hops, yeasts, and additives.
Educational Resources: Guides and staff expertise to assist with homebrewing techniques.
This emporium helps to make the process of brewing at home approachable, providing the necessary tools and ingredients for authentic home craft beer experiences.
Local Homebrewing Communities
The fabric of Cary's homebrewing scene is strengthened by its communities. These groups are instrumental in fostering a culture of collaboration and learning, making the art of homebrewing more accessible. They provide platforms where individuals can:
Share Knowledge: Seasoned brewers offer insights into perfecting the craft, while newcomers gain valuable hands-on experience.
Exchange Recipes: Members often swap recipes, providing a diverse range of styles from traditional cask ales to innovative brews.
Organize Events: From local competitions to casual gatherings, these events promote camaraderie and celebrate homebrewing achievements.
By participating in these communities, enthusiasts are able to mature their skills and contribute to the vitality of Cary's homebrewing ethos.
Beyond Beer: Additional Offerings
Cary, North Carolina, not only caters to craft beer enthusiasts but also provides a selection that appeals to wine and spirit aficionados as well as those who prefer non-alcoholic or domestic drinks. Each offering is carefully selected to ensure quality and diversity.
Cary's Wine and Spirits Scene
Within the vibrant landscapes of Cary's craft beer venues, they also host an impressive array of wines and spirits. Establishments often showcase a diverse selection of North Carolina-produced wines, allowing visitors to explore local vineyards' creations. Concurrently, the spirits scene presents an inviting collection ranging from artisanal gins to aged bourbons, granting a comprehensive experience beyond traditional brews.
Non-Alcoholic and Domestic Options
In recognition of varying preferences, Cary's beverage venues also provide ample non-alcoholic drinks, including craft sodas and mocktails for those seeking alternatives to alcohol. Moreover, for patrons who gravitate towards time-honored tastes, there's a thoughtful selection of domestic beers. This ensures that everyone's palate is respected and caters to a wider audience, maintaining Cary's inclusive atmosphere.
Practical Information for Visitors
When visiting Cary, North Carolina, craft beer enthusiasts will find a variety of breweries offering unique experiences, convenient amenities, and diverse pricing options.
Brewery Tours and Accessibility
Many breweries in Cary, including Bond Brothers Beer Company, provide tours that offer an inside look at their brewing process, along with tasting opportunities. These locations are generally wheelchair accessible, and some, like Craft Beer Cellar, welcome both families and dogs. Visitors should check each brewery's website or call ahead to inquire about specific accessibility features and to schedule a tour.
Operating Hours and Peak Times
The operating hours for breweries vary, but many open their doors in the late morning or early afternoon and close late in the evening. Weekends, especially Friday nights and Saturdays, typically experience higher foot traffic. To avoid crowds, visitors might prefer a weekday visit or arriving earlier in the day. Here is a quick reference for operating hours:
Bond Brothers Beer Company: Mon-Thu 4 PM - 10 PM, Fri 2 PM - 11 PM, Sat 12 PM - 11 PM, Sun 12 PM - 8 PM
Craft Beer Cellar: Mon-Wed 12 PM - 8 PM, Thu-Sat 11 AM - 9 PM, Sun 12 PM - 6 PM
Pricing and Value
Prices for craft beer can vary based on the style, rarity, and serving size. Visitors should anticipate a range for pints of beer typically between $5 - $8, with flights and tastings offering a cost-effective way to try multiple brews. Some establishments may offer happy hour specials or discounts for large group visits. For value purchases, visitors can consider growler fills or purchasing bottles to enjoy at home. Here's a simple breakdown of average prices:
Pint of Craft Beer: $5 - $8
Flight of Beer: $10 - $15
Growler Fill: $15 - $25
Merchandise and Takeaways
In Cary, North Carolina, craft beer aficionados can extend their love for local brews by indulging in the array of merchandise and takeaway options available. Beer lovers can carry a piece of their favorite Cary brewery home with them, as many local spots offer branded merchandise that celebrates their unique contributions to the craft beer scene.
Merchandise Available:
T-Shirts and Apparel: Patrons can flaunt their brewery pride with logo-bearing t-shirts, hoodies, and hats.
Glassware: Collectible pint glasses, growlers, and specialty beer glasses allow customers to enjoy their beer in style.
Stickers & Coasters: For a budget-friendly option, stickers and coasters featuring brewery logos are perfect for personalizing laptops and coffee tables.
Takeaway Beer Options:
Growlers & Crowlers: Breweries offer the convenience of growlers and crowlers, ensuring that their craft beer can be savored fresh from the tap at home.
Bottled and Canned Selections: A hand-picked collection of bottled and canned crafts is typically available for purchase, offering a range of the brewery’s finest to enjoy off premises.
Specialty Items:
Gift Packs: During holiday seasons or special events, breweries may curate gift packs that bundle beer with selected merchandise.
Limited Edition Releases: Look out for exclusive merchandise that accompanies limited edition beer releases; these are often highly sought after.
By visiting craft beer stores and breweries in Cary, customers not only support local businesses but also maintain a tangible connection through merchandise and takeaway beers. Whether for personal use or as gifts, these items serve as mementos of the quality and creativity inherent in Cary's craft beer culture.
Local Influences and Collaboration
The craft beer scene in Cary, NC, showcases a strong sense of local pride and community collaboration. Bond Brothers Beer Company is at the forefront, creating a space where family-friendly and dog-friendly environments converge with quality, variety-rich craft beers. They host events like the NC Beer Mile and have attempted to break the Guinness World Record in partnership with Tir na nOg's Run Club, which resonates with Cary's active and social spirit.
Triangle Beer Co. adds to the local brew fabric, inhabiting the site of the former Jordan Lake Brewing facility. This company fosters a communal spirit by incorporating Craft Concepts, a permanent mobile kitchen that offers onsite dining and expands the potential for catering throughout the Triangle area.
Local breweries are not just places to enjoy a beer; they are cultural hubs that promote connection within the Cary community. For instance:
Bond Brothers Beer Company:
Specialty: IPAs, Stouts, Berliner Weisses, Cream Ales
Collaborates with local running clubs and aims for communal achievements.
Triangle Beer Co.:
Venue: 320 E Durham Road, Cary
Collaboration: Features Craft Concepts to blend culinary and craft beer experiences.
Each brewery infuses a local flavor and pairs their brews with community events, carving a unique niche in Cary's social calendar. This approach not only supports the local economy but also emphasizes Cary's commitment to fostering collaborative, innovative spaces that reflect the town's character and creativity.
Reading and Interpreting Reviews
When one navigates the landscape of craft beer reviews, certain strategies enhance the understanding of a local brewery's offerings and atmosphere. Reviews provide insights, but they demand a discerning eye to differentiate between subjective tastes and objective observations.
Scope of Reviews: Look for a variety of reviews to ensure a well-rounded understanding. Opinions on beer may differ, but recurring comments on quality or service can be telling.
Recency: Give more weight to recent reviews as they are more likely to reflect the current state of the brewery and its craft beer selection.
When reading through reviews, consider the following facets:
Aspect Details to Consider
Selection Diversity of styles, local and national brands, exclusivity of offerings
Quality References to freshness, balance of flavors, and expert brewing techniques
Service Timeliness, knowledge of servers, and interaction with patrons
Ambiance Suitability for families or pets, presence of outdoor seating, etc.
Events Special happenings such as attempts at breaking records or communal runs
Reviews often contain subjective opinions—what one may find to be an exceptional stout, another may not favor. Thus, searching for consistent remarks across multiple reviews can elicit a more objective truth about the beer's quality.
Lastly, look for reviews that go beyond basic adjectives and provide context, such as comparisons with other known beers or detailed tasting notes. It also helps if the reviewer specifies what they value in a brewery, whether it's the variety, specialty offerings, or an inclusive environment.
Note: When evaluating reviews, readers should remain aware that exaggeration—both positive and negative—can skew perception. Reliable reviews are those that discuss concrete aspects of the beer and brewery experience without hyperbole.
