Blue Ridge Breweries

One of the best ways to get to know a city is to sample the beer and mingle with the brewery folk.

Blue Ridge, GA and her neighbors are no exception. With brewers crafting tastes here (officially) since 2012, the old-timers and newbies alike bring diversity to the region that rivals the big cities. However, with the small town charm, fresh mountain air and fresh water brought to you in Blue Ridge Mountains, there is just something extra special about these 6 brewing companies. Come taste Blue Ridge; you’ll see what we mean.

GRUMPY OLD MEN BREWING

The original Grumpy Old Men began selling their brews in 2013. Since then, a new “grumpy old man” (and his wife) have taken over. Brews include light ales and lagers, malty stouts and porters, and a plethora of IPAs. Moon Over Blue Ridge is a local fave – A light and fruity selection that is brewed in the Belgian Wilbier Style.

Can’t decide? No worries; you can grab a flight. Just don’t forget your friends. Karaoke is the pastime on Thursdays, and live music delights the crowd on Fridays and Saturdays. Sit inside, or head outdoors to the patio, where Fido is welcome.

LOCATION: South of Downtown

FOOD: Bring your own; check Facebook for food truck announcements
BREW INFO: 20(ish) beers on tap; growlers and 6-packs available
LOCALS’ FAVORITE BREW: Acoustic Blonde, Hells Holler, Scentsation Double IPA, and Aska Pale Ale!

ANGRY HOPS BREWERY

Relatively new to the scene, this no-frills brewery is all about the company you’re with and the pint before you. While the site is new, the owners come from brewery backgrounds and bring a vast array of knowledge with every pour.

Sit inside with the “garage doors” raised, or find a spot on the patio. Live tunes make a great pairing on weekends.

LOCATION: Downtown
FOOD: Bring your own; check Facebook for food truck announcements
BREW INFO: 16(ish) beers on tap; growlers and 4-packs available
BEST SELLING BREW: Bridge Burner DIPA

COPPERHILL BREWERY

Right over the Toccoa, Copperhill offers a diverse range of craft beers, including everything from seasonal sours to light ales and pilsners to dark porters and bocks. Fear not, IPA lovers, there are usually about 6 hop-lovers selections on draft, to round out the offerings.

Thursdays are trivia nights and Saturdays are for karaoke. We love the large, open space and welcoming vibe here. Play a round of darts, chow down on pizza ordered from down the street, or just kick back with your friends and enjoy a flight. Follow them on Facebook to keep up with their schedule of events.

Another reason to visit? Owners Sarah Berry and Colleen Fults make Copperhill the only woman-owned brewery in all of Tennessee. NEW! Check out Ocoee Distillery now located inside the Ducktown Location of Copperhill Brewery.

LOCATION: Downtown Copperhill, right over the border (with a second location in Ducktown)
FOOD: Bring your own or pick up great take-out from one of their neighboring restaurants.
BREW INFO: 16(ish) beers on tap; growlers available
LOCALS’ FAVORITE BREW: The Oconee IPA is their trademark brew, but their sours (like the new Cherry Lime Sour) are trending with the regulars.

BUCK BALD BREWING

Just across the road and down a bit from Copperhill Brewery, these two make a great pairing for your beer tasting journey. Brew options include IPAs, German styles, sours and more.

I’ll admit, this is one of my favorite brewery patios in the city. Bring your friends for some conversation and a pour, or visit during one of their regular events (always posted on Facebook.)

LOCATION: Downtown Copperhill, right over the border (with a second location in Murphy)
FOOD: Bring your own, check out several restaurant options for take-out within walking distance.
BREW INFO: 14 beers on tap; growlers available
LOCALS’ FAVORITE BREW: Hollerin’ Man Pale Ale, Ragin’ Red Ale, and Shesquatch Scottish Ale are always on the local radar.

TIPPING POINT BREWING CO

Blue Ridge’s newest brewery is Tipping Point Brewing Co, they are located right downtown Blue Ridge across from the city park on the 2nd floor of Trackside Station. They also have the Sunday Ticket for NFL viewing. Follow them on Facebook to keep up with their great events.

LOCATION: Downtown Blue Ridge

FOOD: Pick up food from one of 4 great places within the same area, great Bbq, pizza and more.

BREW INFO: 16 Beers on tap; no cans or growlers.

Emma Dunn