Cary, North Carolina boasts a thriving craft beer scene that’s sure to delight beer enthusiasts. With a growing number of local breweries, taprooms, and bottle shops, Cary offers a diverse range of beer experiences for both residents and visitors.
Cary’s craft beer landscape features several noteworthy establishments, including Cotton House Craft Brewers, Bond Brothers Beer Company, and Fortnight Brewing. These local breweries showcase unique flavors and styles, often incorporating innovative ingredients and brewing techniques. Beer lovers can explore everything from traditional ales and lagers to experimental brews that push the boundaries of craft beer.
Beyond breweries, Cary’s craft beer culture extends to specialty bottle shops and taprooms. Places like Craft Beer Cellar and The Beer Den provide extensive selections of local and national craft beers, allowing enthusiasts to discover new favorites or stock up on beloved brews. With outdoor seating options and frequent events, Cary’s beer venues offer more than just great drinks – they’re also social hubs for the community.
The Rise of Cary’s Craft Beer Scene
Cary’s craft beer scene has blossomed in recent years, reflecting North Carolina’s broader beer culture. Local breweries and events have put Cary on the map for beer enthusiasts.
History of Craft Beer in Cary
Cary’s craft beer journey began in the early 2010s. The town’s first microbrewery opened its doors in 2013, sparking a trend. By 2015, three more breweries had set up shop in Cary. These pioneers focused on quality, using local ingredients and traditional brewing methods.
The NC Beer Mile event emerged as a unique attraction. Participants run a mile while consuming four 12-ounce beers. This quirky race quickly became a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Cary breweries expanded their offerings beyond basic ales and lagers. They introduced experimental brews, seasonal specialties, and barrel-aged creations. Tap rooms became community hubs, hosting events and fostering a vibrant beer culture.
Influence of North Carolina’s Beer Culture
North Carolina’s rich beer heritage significantly shaped Cary’s craft scene. The state’s hop farms and malting facilities provided local ingredients, enabling brewers to create distinct flavors.
Cary breweries embraced the state’s focus on sustainability. Many adopted eco-friendly practices, from water conservation to using solar power. This approach resonated with environmentally conscious consumers.
Annual events like the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival showcased Cary’s brews alongside state favorites. These gatherings helped put Cary on the craft beer map. Local brewers collaborated with peers across North Carolina, fostering innovation and camaraderie.
Cary’s breweries also tapped into the state’s outdoor culture. They created beer gardens and partnered with local running clubs, blending fitness and beer appreciation.
Exploring Cary’s Premier Breweries
Cary’s craft beer scene has flourished in recent years, offering a diverse range of flavors and experiences. The town boasts several standout breweries, each with its own unique character and specialties.
Bond Brothers Beer Company
Bond Brothers Beer Company has quickly become a local favorite since opening in 2016. Located in downtown Cary, this brewery is known for its experimental approach and wide variety of beer styles.
Their tap list regularly features over 20 different beers, ranging from traditional IPAs and stouts to more adventurous sours and barrel-aged creations. The brewery’s spacious taproom and outdoor seating area provide a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts.
Bond Brothers hosts frequent events, including live music and food truck gatherings. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them recognition in the craft beer community.
Fortnight Brewing Company
Fortnight Brewing Company stands out for its focus on English-style ales and lagers. Founded in 2013, this brewery brings a taste of British brewing traditions to Cary.
Their core lineup includes classics like ESB (Extra Special Bitter), IPA, and Porter. Fortnight also produces seasonal and limited-release beers throughout the year.
The brewery’s taproom offers a cozy, pub-like atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy pints, flights, and take-home growlers. Fortnight’s dedication to traditional brewing methods and consistent quality has made it a staple in Cary’s beer scene.
Cotton House Craft Brewers
Cotton House Craft Brewers combines beer-making with local history. Located in the historic Pasmore House, this brewery offers a unique setting for enjoying craft beer.
Their beer selection covers a range of styles, from light lagers to robust stouts. Cotton House often incorporates local ingredients into their recipes, showcasing North Carolina’s agricultural bounty.
The brewery’s picturesque location and outdoor seating make it a popular spot for relaxation and socializing. Cotton House regularly hosts community events, fostering a strong connection with local patrons.
Jordan Lake Brewing Company
Jordan Lake Brewing Company brings a laid-back, lakeside vibe to Cary’s beer scene. This family-owned brewery focuses on creating approachable, well-crafted beers.
Their tap list typically features a mix of year-round favorites and rotating seasonal offerings. Popular styles include their refreshing Wheat ale and hoppy IPA.
The taproom’s casual atmosphere and dog-friendly policy make it a hit with locals. Jordan Lake Brewing Company often collaborates with nearby businesses, supporting the local community.
Raleigh Brewing at the Arboretum
Raleigh Brewing Company expanded into Cary with its Arboretum location, bringing its established reputation for quality craft beer. This outpost offers a curated selection of Raleigh Brewing’s most popular beers.
Visitors can expect to find their flagship brews like Hell Yes Ma’am Belgian Golden and House of Clay Rye IPA. The taproom provides a comfortable space for enjoying pints and flights.
Raleigh Brewing at the Arboretum also serves as a bottle shop, allowing customers to take home their favorite beers. Its convenient location makes it a popular after-work spot for Cary residents.
Brueprint Taproom Brewing Company
Brueprint Taproom Brewing Company prides itself on creating unique, flavorful beers. This small-batch brewery experiments with various styles and ingredients.
Their tap list changes frequently, offering patrons new tastes with each visit. Brueprint’s beers often feature creative names and label designs, adding to the fun atmosphere.
The cozy taproom encourages interaction between brewers and customers. Brueprint hosts regular events, including trivia nights and food truck gatherings, fostering a sense of community among beer lovers.
Key Beer Styles and Local Favorites
Cary’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of styles to suit every palate. Local breweries showcase their creativity through unique flavor profiles and brewing techniques.
Hazy Daze IPA and Other IPAs
India Pale Ales dominate Cary’s craft beer landscape. The Hazy Daze IPA, a local favorite, exemplifies the New England-style IPA trend. This beer boasts a cloudy appearance with tropical fruit notes and a soft mouthfeel. Traditional West Coast IPAs are also popular, featuring bold hop bitterness and citrus flavors.
Many Cary breweries experiment with IPA variations:
- Session IPAs for lower alcohol content
- Double IPAs for hop enthusiasts
- Fruit-infused IPAs for added complexity
Local brewers often use regional ingredients to create distinctive IPA flavors, setting Cary’s offerings apart from national brands.
Stouts and Dark Ales
Rich, full-bodied stouts and dark ales have found a devoted following in Cary. Local breweries produce a range of styles:
- Oatmeal stouts with silky textures
- Coffee stouts infused with locally roasted beans
- Imperial stouts aged in bourbon barrels
These beers often feature complex flavor profiles with notes of chocolate, roasted malt, and caramel. Some breweries offer seasonal variations, like pumpkin stouts in autumn or peppermint stouts for winter holidays.
Refreshing Berliner Weisses and Cream Ales
For lighter options, Cary brewers excel in crisp, refreshing styles. Berliner Weisse, a tart German wheat beer, has gained popularity. Local versions often include fruit additions like raspberry or passionfruit.
Cream ales offer a smooth, easy-drinking alternative. These light-bodied beers blend ale and lager characteristics for a clean finish. Cary brewers sometimes add local honey or vanilla to enhance flavor profiles.
These styles are particularly sought after during North Carolina’s warm summers, providing a thirst-quenching option for beer enthusiasts.
Exclusive Cask Ales
Cask-conditioned ales represent a niche but growing segment of Cary’s beer scene. These naturally carbonated beers are served at cellar temperature, allowing subtle flavors to shine. Local breweries often reserve special batches for cask conditioning.
Cask ales in Cary may include:
- Traditional English-style bitters
- Dry-hopped pale ales
- Experimental small-batch brews
Some taprooms host weekly cask nights, offering unique, limited-edition beers. This old-world serving method provides a distinctive drinking experience for Cary’s craft beer aficionados.
Craft Beer Destinations in Downtown Cary
Downtown Cary boasts several exceptional craft beer destinations within walking distance of each other. These establishments offer an extensive selection of local and regional brews, creating a vibrant beer scene for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
HighCraft Beer Market
HighCraft Beer Market stands out as a premier bottle shop in downtown Cary. With over 500 craft beer options, it caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
The market features a rotating selection of 16 beers on tap, allowing customers to sample various brews before making a purchase. Knowledgeable staff members provide expert recommendations and insights into the latest beer trends.
HighCraft also hosts regular tasting events and beer education sessions. These gatherings give patrons the opportunity to expand their beer knowledge and discover new favorites.
Pharmacy Bottle + Beverage
Pharmacy Bottle + Beverage combines the charm of a vintage pharmacy with a modern craft beer haven. This unique establishment offers a carefully curated selection of craft beers from North Carolina and beyond.
The shop’s interior features reclaimed wood and antique fixtures, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Customers can choose from a variety of bottled and canned beers to enjoy on-site or take home.
Pharmacy Bottle + Beverage frequently collaborates with local breweries to offer exclusive releases and limited-edition beers. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to guide customers through their extensive beer menu.
Craft Beer Cellar
Craft Beer Cellar is a cornerstone of downtown Cary’s beer scene, offering an impressive array of craft beers from around the world. This bottle shop and tasting room prides itself on its diverse selection and commitment to quality.
The store features over 300 different beers, with a focus on local North Carolina breweries and hard-to-find international options. A rotating tap list allows visitors to sample new and exciting brews.
Craft Beer Cellar regularly hosts beer tastings, meet-the-brewer events, and educational seminars. These gatherings foster a sense of community among beer enthusiasts and provide opportunities to learn about different brewing styles and techniques.
Experiencing the Local Flavor
Cary’s craft beer scene offers a rich tapestry of experiences beyond just the brews themselves. Local breweries embrace outdoor spaces, food partnerships, community gatherings, and regional ingredients to create memorable encounters for beer enthusiasts.
Beer Gardens and Outdoor Seating
Many Cary breweries feature inviting outdoor spaces for patrons to enjoy their beverages. Bond Brothers Beer Company provides a spacious beer garden where guests can sip their craft creations in the fresh air. The outdoor seating area at Cotton House Craft Brewers offers a relaxed atmosphere for savoring their unique brews.
Fortnight Brewing boasts a welcoming patio, perfect for gathering with friends on warm evenings. These open-air spaces often include comfortable seating, string lights, and sometimes even lawn games for added entertainment.
Food Trucks and Food Pairings
Cary’s breweries frequently partner with local food trucks to offer diverse culinary options. These mobile eateries rotate regularly, providing fresh choices to complement the beers on tap. Some breweries, like Bond Brothers, maintain schedules of food truck appearances on their websites.
Many taprooms also curate food pairings to enhance the beer-drinking experience. Local cheeses, charcuterie boards, and artisanal snacks are common offerings. Some breweries collaborate with nearby restaurants to create beer-infused dishes or suggest ideal pairings for their brews.
Community Events and Festivals
Cary’s craft beer scene thrives on community engagement through various events and festivals. Bond Brothers Beer Company hosts unique gatherings like the NC Beer Mile, combining running with beer tasting. The Flip-Flop 1k partners with local run clubs, aiming for world records while celebrating craft beer.
Annual events such as the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival showcase local brews alongside regional spirits and cuisine. These festivals often feature live music, food vendors, and opportunities to meet local brewers, fostering a sense of community among beer enthusiasts.
Local Ingredients and Pairings
Cary’s breweries take pride in incorporating local ingredients into their beers. Many source hops, grains, and fruits from North Carolina farmers, infusing their brews with regional flavors. This farm-to-glass approach not only supports local agriculture but also creates unique taste profiles.
Some breweries offer tours highlighting their use of local ingredients. Patrons can learn about the sourcing process and how these elements influence the final product. Brewers often experiment with seasonal ingredients, creating limited-edition beers that capture the essence of Cary’s local harvests.
Craft Beer Amenities and Attractions
Cary’s craft beer scene offers diverse experiences beyond just great brews. Local breweries provide welcoming spaces for both humans and canine companions, host live music performances, organize trivia nights, and feature comfortable indoor seating areas.
Dog-Friendly Destinations
Many Cary breweries welcome four-legged friends. Bond Brothers Beer Company allows dogs in their outdoor seating area. Cotton House Craft Brewers provides a spacious patio where patrons can enjoy drinks with their pets. Some establishments even offer water bowls and treats for furry visitors.
Beer gardens with ample outdoor space are ideal for dog owners. These areas allow pets to socialize while their humans sample local brews. It’s advisable to check each brewery’s specific pet policies before visiting, as rules may vary.
Venues With Live Music
Several Cary breweries double as live music venues. Fortnight Brewing regularly hosts local bands and solo artists. Their taproom transforms into a vibrant concert space on weekends. Cotton House Craft Brewers features acoustic sets in their historic downtown location.
These performances typically showcase local talent, ranging from folk and rock to jazz and blues. Many breweries post their music schedules online or on social media. Live music events often pair well with special beer releases or food truck appearances.
Trivia Nights and Social Gatherings
Trivia nights are popular at Cary’s craft breweries. Bond Brothers Beer Company hosts weekly trivia contests, drawing competitive teams and casual players alike. Fortnight Brewing organizes themed trivia events, covering topics from general knowledge to specific interests.
These gatherings provide opportunities to meet new people and engage with the local community. Some breweries offer prizes for top-scoring teams, adding extra excitement to the evening. Trivia nights often feature special drink promotions or food pairings.
Indoor Seating Options
Cary’s breweries provide comfortable indoor seating for year-round enjoyment. Cotton House Craft Brewers offers a cozy taproom with a mix of bar seating and tables. Fortnight Brewing’s spacious interior accommodates larger groups and features board games for added entertainment.
Many venues incorporate industrial design elements, creating a modern yet welcoming atmosphere. Some breweries, like Bond Brothers, offer private event spaces for special occasions. During colder months, indoor areas become popular spots for sampling seasonal brews and engaging in lively conversations.
Discovering Unique Bottle Shops and Retailers
Cary boasts several exceptional bottle shops and retailers for craft beer enthusiasts. These local gems offer curated selections, knowledgeable staff, and unique experiences for beer lovers.
Craft Beer Cellar
Craft Beer Cellar in Cary is a beer lover’s paradise. This shop offers an extensive selection of local and international craft beers.
The knowledgeable staff provides expert recommendations tailored to customers’ preferences. They regularly host tasting events, allowing patrons to sample new and exciting brews.
Craft Beer Cellar’s shelves are meticulously organized, making it easy for customers to find their favorite styles or explore new options. The shop also offers a mix-and-match option, perfect for creating custom six-packs.
Pharmacy Bottle + Beverage
Pharmacy Bottle + Beverage combines the charm of a classic bottle shop with the atmosphere of a taproom. Located in downtown Cary, it’s a popular spot for both purchasing and enjoying craft beers.
The shop features a rotating selection of draft beers, focusing on North Carolina breweries. Customers can enjoy a pint on-site or fill a growler to take home.
Pharmacy Bottle + Beverage also stocks a wide range of bottled and canned beers. Their knowledgeable staff keeps up with the latest trends in the craft beer world, ensuring a fresh and exciting inventory.
Liquid Beverage Company
Liquid Beverage Company stands out for its commitment to offering a diverse and carefully curated beer selection. The shop prides itself on stocking hard-to-find brews and limited releases.
Their inventory includes an impressive array of local North Carolina beers alongside national and international craft offerings. The staff is passionate about beer and eager to share their expertise with customers.
Liquid Beverage Company regularly updates its stock, ensuring that repeat visitors always find something new to try. They also offer beer education sessions, helping customers expand their palates and beer knowledge.
Craft Beer Education and Resources
Cary’s craft beer scene offers numerous opportunities to expand your beer knowledge and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Local breweries and organizations provide educational experiences and community events for both beginners and experienced beer lovers.
Learning About Beer Making
Many Cary breweries offer behind-the-scenes tours, giving visitors insight into the brewing process. These tours typically cover ingredients, equipment, and techniques used to create different beer styles.
Some breweries host brewing classes where participants can learn hands-on skills. Topics may include homebrewing basics, recipe formulation, and advanced techniques.
Local bottle shops often organize tasting events led by knowledgeable staff or visiting brewers. These sessions help develop palates and teach beer evaluation skills.
Becoming Part of the Craft Beer Community
Cary’s craft beer community welcomes newcomers through various social events. Local breweries frequently host trivia nights, live music, and food truck gatherings that bring beer lovers together.
Beer clubs and meetup groups offer regular opportunities to share and discuss craft beers. These groups often organize brewery visits and bottle shares.
Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook connect beer enthusiasts in Cary. Many local breweries maintain active accounts, sharing news about new releases and upcoming events.
Volunteering at beer festivals or charity events is another way to immerse yourself in the craft beer scene while giving back to the community.
