It’s no secret that the local beer scene in Asheville, North Carolina, is thriving. From hoppy IPAs to dark stouts, you don’t have to look far to find excellent craft brews. If you want to sample some of the city’s finest ales, then head over to Highland Brewery. Founded in 1994, Highland Brewing Company is the first legal brewery in Asheville since Prohibition. It’s also the largest family-owned brewery in the Southeast. Quality beer, tours, and weekly events are just a few things you can enjoy here. Find out what’s on tap and discover how you can experience this local favorite to the fullest!
Highland Brewery is one of many great breweries near The Esmeralda Inn. Plan to stay several days so you can visit a few of them! For a detailed list of area attractions, make sure to download our free vacation guide. It’s full of great information about activities, restaurants, and things to do in Asheville.
Why You Need to Visit Highland Brewery
1. Quality Beer
From small-batch brews to seasonal favorites, every beer at Highland Brewery is excellent. Each beer is brewed and bottled in-house using eco-friendly, sustainable processes. Popular year-round brews include:
Gaelic Ale: This deep amber-colored American ale is the brewery’s flagship beer. The balanced malty sweetness and delicate hops are sure to have you coming back for more.
Oatmeal Porter: Silky smooth and perfect for winter! This malty porter has hints of chocolate-roasted flavor and a well-balanced hop character.
Saint Terese’s Pale Ale: If you’re a big fan of hops, this beer is for you. This pale ale has a slightly malty body and an assertive American hop flavor. It’s crisp, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion.
Highland IPA: Highland’s first West Coast style IPA has hints of tropical fruit, lemon rind, grapefruit, and hops. It’s all tied together with a dry, citrusy finish.
Highland Pilsner: This German pilsner has notes of stone fruit, pepper, and lush grass. It’s cold fermented for a dry, crisp finish.
Daycation IPA: The name says it all. Sit back and relax while you enjoy the light-bodied flavors and herbal notes in this delicious pale ale.
Mandarina IPA: Brewed with German Mandarina Bavaria hops and juicy American oranges, this IPA offers intense tropical notes and a crisp, bright finish.
Black Mocha Stout: This malty beer is Highland’s most robust brew. The chocolate and coffee tones are perfect to pair with your dessert!
2. Tours & Tastings
Guests can sample a variety of craft beers in the tasting room, which is open every day of the week. On Fridays and Saturdays, you can listen to live music and grab a bite to eat at one of the Highland Brewery food trucks. When the weather is nice, head up to the rooftop beer garden and take in the incredible views. The rooftop is dog-friendly, so you can even bring your pup with you!
Once you’ve found your new favorite beer, take a guided tour of the facility to learn about the brewing and packaging process. The free tours last approximately 45 minutes and are offered seven days a week.
3. Highland Brewing Company Events
Between the rooftop beer garden, indoor Event Center, and outdoor stage, this state-of-the-art facility has so much to offer. There is always something going on at the outdoor stage in the Highland Brewing Company Meadow. Guests can sit outside, listen to live music, and enjoy drinks and delicious food truck eats. Check the online events calendar for a full list of upcoming concerts and performances.
Book Your Stay at The Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant!
After you’ve enjoyed sampling a few of Highland Brewery’s ales, come home to our rustic Chimney Rock Inn and unwind! The Esmeralda Inn is close to all the main attractions in Asheville and offers the very best amenities for your stay. No matter which of our lodging options you choose, we promise your stay will be a comfortable one! We even have an incredible onsite restaurant that features delicious food and local craft beer. Check our availability and book your next mountain getaway. Then join us for a meal and tell us all about your experience at Highland Brewery. We look forward to seeing you soon!