Discover the rich history and thriving modern craft of Statesville, NC. Visit top like Olde Mecklenburg and Red Buffalo, attend beer like Brew Stash Bash, and find the best food and beer pairings. Don’t forget to grab some brewery as a souvenir!
History of Brewing in Statesville, NC
In the early days of brewing in Statesville, NC, pioneers were experimenting with different techniques to produce quality beer. Some of the earliest pioneers in brewing were German immigrants who brought with them their love for beer and brewing traditions. Among them was Johann Schaub, who founded the first brewery in Statesville in the 1850s. Schaub’s brewery was the first of its kind in the area and quickly became popular among the locals.
Early Brewing Pioneers
Other early brewing pioneers in Statesville include the Kalb and Schramm families, who founded the Kalb and Schramm Brewery. The brewery was located on the corner of Water and Meeting streets and was a significant producer of beer from 1888 to 1919. The brewery’s success was due to the hard work and dedication of the Kalb and Schramm families, who used traditional brewing methods to create high-quality beers.
Prohibition Era and Its Impact
The Prohibition era had a significant impact on brewing in Statesville. The 18th Amendment, which banned the production, transportation, and sale of alcohol, was passed in 1920 and lasted until 1933. During this time, many across the country were forced to close their doors, including those in Statesville. The Kalb and Schramm Brewery closed in 1919, just before the start of Prohibition. The Schaub brewery also closed during this time, and it was not until the end of Prohibition that brewing began to make a comeback in Statesville.
Modern Craft Beer Scene
In recent years, the craft in Statesville has been thriving. There are now several and distilleries in the area, each with its unique style and flavor. Some of the top in Statesville include the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, Fifth Creek Brewing Co., Red Buffalo Brewing Co., Southern Distilling Company, and Three Rivers Distilling Co. These offer a range of different beers, from classic lagers and ales to experimental IPAs and stouts.
The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, for example, is known for its German-style beers, while Red Buffalo Brewing Co. offers a range of seasonal and specialty beers. Southern Distilling Company is a distillery that produces high-quality bourbon, whiskey, and rum, while Three Rivers Distilling Co. specializes in vodka and gin.
Overall, the modern scene in Statesville is a testament to the rich history of brewing in the area. While the early pioneers of brewing may have used traditional methods, today’s brewers are using innovative techniques to create unique and flavorful beers. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Statesville, there’s no shortage of great beer to enjoy in this vibrant North Carolina town.
- Want to learn more about the history of brewing in Statesville? Check out the Statesville Historical Collection at the Iredell County Public Library.
- Looking for a great place to enjoy a cold beer? Visit the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery for a tour and tasting.
- Interested in trying some local spirits? Stop by the Southern Distilling Company or Three Rivers Distilling Co. for a distillery tour and tasting.
Top Breweries in Statesville, NC
Statesville, NC is home to a thriving scene, with several local and distilleries that are worth checking out. Here are the top breweries in Statesville that you should definitely visit:
The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery
The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, also known as OMB, is a popular brewery that has been serving up delicious beer since 2009. The brewery is located in Charlotte, NC, but it has a taproom in Statesville that is worth visiting. OMB is known for its German-style beer, including its award-winning Mecktoberfest and Copper Amber Ale. The taproom is open seven days a week and offers and .
Fifth Creek Brewing Co.
Fifth Creek Brewing Co. is a family-owned brewery that was founded in 2016. The brewery is located in Statesville and offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. The brewery also has a taproom that is open seven days a week and features live music and food trucks on the weekends.
Red Buffalo Brewing Co.
Red Buffalo Brewing Co. is another popular brewery in Statesville that is worth checking out. The brewery is located in downtown Statesville and offers a variety of beers, including its popular Red Buffalo Ale and Hazy IPA. The taproom is open seven days a week and offers , , and a full food menu.
Southern Distilling Company
If you’re looking for something a little stronger than beer, Southern Distilling Company is the place to go. The distillery is located in Statesville and offers a variety of spirits, including bourbon, vodka, and gin. The distillery also offers and , so you can learn about the distilling process and sample some of their delicious spirits.
Three Rivers Distilling Co.
Another great distillery in Statesville is Three Rivers Distilling Co. The distillery is located in downtown Statesville and offers a variety of spirits, including its popular Triple Smoke Whiskey and Rye Whiskey. The distillery also has a taproom that is open seven days a week and features live music and food trucks on the weekends.
Brewery Tours and Tastings in Statesville, NC
If you’re a beer enthusiast, there’s no better way to experience Statesville’s vibrant craft than by taking a tour of the city’s top . Not only will you get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, but you’ll also have the opportunity to sample some of the best craft beers in the state. Here are the top in Statesville, NC that offer and :
Olde Mecklenburg Brewery Tours and Tastings
The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, also known as OMB, is one of the largest craft breweries in North Carolina. They offer of their facility every Saturday, where you can learn about their German-style brewing process and sample some of their award-winning beers. The tasting room is open daily, where you can try their full lineup of beers and purchase to take home as a souvenir.
Fifth Creek Brewing Co. Tours and Tastings
Fifth Creek Brewing Co. is a family-owned brewery that specializes in small-batch craft beers. Their tasting room is open daily, where you can sample their rotating selection of beers and purchase growlers and . They also offer of their facility by appointment, where you can learn about their brewing process and see their equipment up close.
Red Buffalo Brewing Co. Tours and Tastings
Red Buffalo Brewing Co. is a cozy brewery located in downtown Statesville. They offer of their facility on Saturdays, where you can learn about their unique brewing process and sample their delicious beers. Their tasting room is open daily, where you can try their full lineup of beers and purchase merchandise to take home.
Southern Distilling Company Tours and Tastings
If you’re a fan of whiskey, you won’t want to miss a tour of the Southern Distilling Company. Located just outside of Statesville, they offer of their facility every Saturday, where you can learn about their distilling process and sample their award-winning whiskeys. They also have a tasting room where you can purchase their whiskeys and other .
Three Rivers Distilling Co. Tours and Tastings
Three Rivers Distilling Co. is another distillery located just outside of Statesville. They offer of their facility every Saturday, where you can learn about their distilling process and sample their handcrafted spirits. They also have a tasting room where you can purchase their spirits and other .
Overall, taking a brewery tour and tasting in Statesville is a must-do experience for any beer or whiskey lover. Whether you’re interested in learning about the brewing process or just want to sample some delicious craft beers or spirits, there’s something for everyone in Statesville’s vibrant scene. So, grab a few friends and plan your visit to one (or all!) of these top and distilleries. Cheers!
Beer Festivals and Events in Statesville, NC
Are you a beer lover looking for a good time? Look no further than Statesville, NC! This charming town is home to a variety of beer and events that are sure to satisfy your thirst for craft brews and good times. Here are just a few of the best beer and events that Statesville has to offer:
Statesville Beer and Wine Festival
The Statesville Beer and Wine Festival is an annual event that takes place every fall. This festival is a celebration of all things beer and wine, featuring over 100 different craft beers and wines from local and regional and wineries. In addition to the drinks, the festival also features live music, food trucks, and vendors selling a variety of crafts and goods. This is a great event for beer and wine enthusiasts, as well as anyone looking for a fun and relaxed day out with friends and family.
Downtown Statesville Brew Stash Bash
The Downtown Statesville Brew Stash Bash is a unique and exciting event that takes place every spring. This festival is all about showcasing the best of local , featuring over 30 different breweries from the Statesville area. In addition to the beer, the festival also features live music, food trucks, and a variety of vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to artisanal foods. This is a great event for anyone who loves and wants to support local .
Iredell County Agricultural Fair
The Iredell County Agricultural Fair is an annual event that takes place every fall. While the fair is not specifically focused on beer, it does feature a beer garden where visitors can sample a variety of craft beers from local and regional . In addition to the beer, the fair also features a wide range of activities and events, including carnival rides, livestock shows, live music, and more. This is a great event for families, as there is something for everyone to enjoy.
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The Carolina BalloonFest is an annual event that takes place every fall. While the festival is not specifically focused on beer, it does feature a beer and wine garden where visitors can sample a variety of local craft beers and wines. In addition to the drinks, the festival also features hot air balloon rides, live music, a variety of food vendors, and more. This is a unique and exciting event that is sure to be a memorable experience for anyone who attends.
Best Food and Beer Pairings in Statesville, NC
If you’re a foodie or a beer lover, Statesville, NC is the place to be. With its rich culinary scene and an array of craft , you’re guaranteed to have a gastronomic experience like no other. In this section, we’ll dive into some of the best food and beer pairings in Statesville, NC.
Classic American Comfort Foods and Beers
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats classic American dishes. From burgers to mac and cheese, these foods are hearty, satisfying, and pair well with a cold beer. Here are some classic American comfort foods and beers to try in Statesville, NC:
- Burger and IPA – The bold and hoppy flavors of an IPA make it the perfect match for a juicy burger. Try the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery’s Captain Jack Pilsner or Red Buffalo Brewing Co.’s Hoppy Red Ale.
- Mac and Cheese and Brown Ale – The nutty and caramel flavors of a brown ale complement the creamy and cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. Pair Fifth Creek Brewing Co.’s Brown Ale with your favorite mac and cheese dish.
- BBQ Ribs and Stout – The smoky flavors of BBQ ribs go hand in hand with the rich and roasty flavors of a stout. Try Southern Distilling Company’s Oak Aged Bourbon Barrel Stout or Three Rivers Distilling Co.’s Mocha Stout.
Southern Cuisine and Local Brews
Statesville, NC is located in the heart of the South, and its culinary scene reflects that. From fried chicken to shrimp and grits, Southern cuisine is a must-try when visiting the area. And what better way to enjoy it than with a local brew? Here are some Southern cuisine and local beer pairings to try:
- Fried Chicken and Pilsner – The light and crisp flavors of a pilsner balance out the richness of fried chicken. Try Olde Mecklenburg Brewery’s Copper Altbier or Red Buffalo Brewing Co.’s Belgian Witbier.
- Shrimp and Grits and Hefeweizen – The light and refreshing flavors of a hefeweizen complement the creamy and savory flavors of shrimp and grits. Pair Fifth Creek Brewing Co.’s Hefeweizen with this Southern favorite.
- Pulled Pork and Pale Ale – The hoppy and citrus flavors of a pale ale cut through the sweetness of pulled pork. Try Southern Distilling Company’s Pale Ale or Three Rivers Distilling Co.’s American Pale Ale.
International Dishes and Unique Beer Pairings
Statesville, NC may be located in the South, but its culinary scene is far from limited to Southern cuisine. With an array of international restaurants in the area, you can experience flavors from all over the world. And why not pair them with a unique beer? Here are some international dishes and unique beer pairings to try:
- Sushi and Saison – The fruity and spicy notes of a saison complement the clean and fresh flavors of sushi. Try Olde Mecklenburg Brewery’s Southside Weiss or Red Buffalo Brewing Co.’s Saison.
- Tacos and Gose – The tart and salty flavors of a gose balance out the spiciness of tacos. Pair Fifth Creek Brewing Co.’s Gose with your favorite taco dish.
- Curry and Belgian Tripel – The sweet and spicy flavors of a Belgian tripel complement the complex flavors of curry. Try Southern Distilling Company’s Belgian Tripel or Three Rivers Distilling Co.’s Belgian Golden Strong Ale.
Brewery Merchandise and Souvenirs in Statesville, NC
Breweries are not just about beer, but also about the experience and the memories that come with it. One way to cherish those memories is by purchasing merchandise and souvenirs from the . Statesville, NC is home to several that offer a variety of merchandise and souvenirs for their customers. In this section, we will take a look at the and souvenirs offered by some of the top in Statesville, NC.
Olde Mecklenburg Brewery Merchandise
Olde Mecklenburg Brewery is one of the oldest and most popular in Statesville, NC. The brewery is known for its traditional German-style beers and its commitment to using only the highest quality ingredients. In addition to its delicious beers, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery also offers a wide range of merchandise and souvenirs for its customers.
One of the most popular items in Olde Mecklenburg Brewery’s collection is its branded glassware. The brewery offers a variety of glassware options, including pint glasses, steins, and mugs. Customers can also purchase branded t-shirts, hats, and other clothing items to show off their love for Olde Mecklenburg Brewery.
For those who want to take a piece of Olde Mecklenburg Brewery home with them, the brewery also offers growlers and crowlers. These airtight containers allow customers to take their favorite Olde Mecklenburg Brewery beers home with them and enjoy them later.
Fifth Creek Brewing Co. Merchandise
Fifth Creek Brewing Co. is a family-owned brewery that prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients to create its unique, flavorful beers. In addition to its delicious beers, Fifth Creek Brewing Co. also offers a variety of and souvenirs for its customers.
One of the most popular items in Fifth Creek Brewing Co.’s collection is its branded pint glasses. Customers can also purchase t-shirts, hats, and other clothing items with the brewery’s logo. For those who want to take a piece of Fifth Creek Brewing Co. home with them, the brewery offers growlers and crowlers.
In addition to its standard merchandise, Fifth Creek Brewing Co. also offers a unique souvenir for its customers. The brewery has a custom-made wooden tap handle that customers can purchase and take home with them. This tap handle is a beautiful and functional piece of art that will remind customers of their Fifth Creek Brewing Co. experience every time they pour a beer at home.
Red Buffalo Brewing Co. Merchandise
Red Buffalo Brewing Co. is a small, family-owned brewery that specializes in creating unique, experimental beers. The brewery’s taproom is a cozy and welcoming space that is perfect for enjoying a pint or two with friends. In addition to its delicious beers, Red Buffalo Brewing Co. also offers a variety of and souvenirs for its customers.
One of the most popular items in Red Buffalo Brewing Co.’s merchandise collection is its branded pint glasses. Customers can also purchase t-shirts, hats, and other clothing items with the brewery’s logo. For those who want to take a piece of Red Buffalo Brewing Co. home with them, the brewery offers growlers and crowlers.
In addition to its standard merchandise, Red Buffalo Brewing Co. also offers a unique souvenir for its customers. The brewery has a custom-made wooden flight board that customers can purchase and take home with them. This flight board is a beautiful and functional piece of art that will remind customers of their Red Buffalo Brewing Co. experience every time they serve beer at home.
Southern Distilling Company Merchandise
Southern Distilling Company is a craft distillery that produces small-batch, handcrafted spirits using locally sourced ingredients. In addition to its delicious spirits, the distillery also offers a variety of and souvenirs for its customers.
One of the most popular items in Southern Distilling Company’s collection is its branded glassware. Customers can also purchase t-shirts, hats, and other clothing items with the distillery’s logo. For those who want to take a piece of Southern Distilling Company home with them, the distillery offers bottles of its spirits for purchase.
In addition to its standard , Southern Distilling Company also offers a unique souvenir for its customers. The distillery has a custom-made wooden whiskey box that customers can purchase and take home with them. This whiskey box is a beautiful and functional piece of art that will remind customers of their Southern Distilling Company experience every time they enjoy a glass of whiskey.
Three Rivers Distilling Co. Merchandise
Three Rivers Distilling Co. is a small-batch distillery that produces a variety of handcrafted spirits using locally sourced ingredients. In addition to its delicious spirits, the distillery also offers a variety of and souvenirs for its customers.
One of the most popular items in Three Rivers Distilling Co.’s collection is its branded glassware. Customers can also purchase t-shirts, hats, and other clothing items with the distillery’s logo. For those who want to take a piece of Three Rivers Distilling Co. home with them, the distillery offers bottles of its spirits for purchase.
In addition to its standard , Three Rivers Distilling Co. also offers a unique souvenir for its customers. The distillery has a custom-made wooden flight board that customers can purchase and take home with them. This flight board is a beautiful and functional piece of art that will remind customers of their Three Rivers Distilling Co. experience every time they serve a drink at home.
In conclusion, the and distilleries in Statesville, NC offer a variety of merchandise and souvenirs for their customers. From branded glassware and clothing to growlers and crowlers, there are plenty of options for those who want to take a piece of their favorite brewery or distillery home with them. In addition to standard , some and distilleries also offer unique souvenirs, such as custom-made tap handles or flight boards. These souvenirs are not only functional, but also serve as a reminder of the customer’s experience at the brewery or distillery.
