Highland Brewing Co. is the grandaddy of Asheville’s now nationally known, and continually growing, craft brew scene. And this year, Highland will celebrate its 15th anniversary in fine style.
From the Asheville Citizen-Times‘ Beer Guy, Tony Kiss, giving us his perspective:
At lot has happened since then. Asheville has become a famed brewing city. Highland has moved to a much bigger factory in East Asheville. And at 4 p.m. Friday, Highland is hosting a birthday bash that includes live music (by the Funknastics), food (from Barley’s) and the introduction of its small batch celebratory brew, Auld Asheville Vintage Ale. (There’s more at Highland Brewing’s blog.)
Tony, of course, is not the only one who has watched Highland grow and change over the years. I’ve observed Highalnd and its keen owner, Oscar Wong, since the outset. I tagged along for tastings in the basement of Barley’s (where Highland used to make its beer; note that Barley’s is also celebrating a 15-year anniversary) and I was there for the short-lived Blue Rooster restaurant/brewery experiment by Highland. I’ve quaffed many of Highland’s outstanding brews, from the Gaelic to the Cold Mountain and beyond.
There’s no doubt that the Asheville beer scene would not be where it is today without the trail blazed by Highland. (See my Mountain Xpress story about Asheville’s recognition, and history, as Beer City USA.) And there’s no doubt that there are many great days ahead for Asheville’s first brewery.
Here’s a hearty congratulations. I hope Highlands will be around for years to come, and I hope to see you Friday for your anniversary party.