CHEERS TO CELEBRATING COMMUNITY & CRAFT BEER ROCKYMOUNTBEERFEST.COM TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE!
SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 13 ROCKY MOUNT
THE FIRST ANNUAL ROCKY MOUNT BEER FEST PRESENTED BY GOAT ISLAND BOTTLE SHOP WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 AT THE ROCKY MOUNT MILLS CAMPUS IN ROCKY MOUNT. MORE THAN 35 BREWERIES WILL BE BRINGING SOME OF THEIR BEST SELECTIONS TO ENJOY.
LIVE MUSIC
FOOD TRUCKS
VENDORS
2 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 2021
ROCKY MOUNT
BEER FEST By Paige Minshew
The Rocky Mount Beer Fest presented by Goat Island Bottle Shop will make its debut on Nov. 13 at the Rocky Mount Mills.
the festival area once they leave. Dogs are not allowed on the premises. People wishing to purchase VIP tickets for
More than 35 breweries will be bringing
$75 will receive a one-hour early entry into the
some of their best selections to enjoy. Live
festival, a VIP glass, festival taster cup, unlimited
music, food trucks, axe throwing and raffles and
beer tasting, first access to all beer with shorter
games will also be offered for all to enjoy.
lines, live music during the VIP hour, VIP tent
Goat Island Bottle Shop opened as the first of its kind four years ago in Rocky Mount. Owner Kristi Ellis, originally from Florida, moved to Rocky Mount with her husband, beer-lover Travis Ellis, to open what is now Goat Island Bottle Shop. Bar Manager Jen Fritsch has been with Goat Island since the day it opened in 2017. The idea for a beer festival has been stirring around the minds behind Goat Island for quite a while. “Travis, Kristi and I have had an interest in starting a beer festival for a few years now and had actually discussed it with the Rocky Mount Mills,” Fritsch said. “This was a couple of years ago and we couldn’t seem to get the right flow of things going — and then there was COVID. Once we started coming out of COVID a bit we were still really interested in making something like this happen, and we decided it’s now or never.
access and two raffle tickets. There are only 100 VIP tickets available for purchase. General admission tickets are priced $50 presale and $60 at the door. People with general admission tickets also will have unlimited beer tasting, receive one raffle ticket and a festival taster cup as well as enjoying live music and food trucks. Perhaps the most intriguing of all is the designated driver ticket, which costs $15 and allows entry at 11 a.m. along with the VIP guests. Designated driver ticket holders will have full access to food, music and the festival and will receive one raffle ticket. Designated driver ticket holders will not be allowed to consume any alcohol at the festival. More than 35 breweries will be bringing some of their best selections to enjoy, including The Glass Jug Beer Lab; Tarboro Brewing Company;
“I’ve personally been working on this beer
Steel Spring Brewery, Brewery Bhavana; Space
festival for about six months,” she said. “While
Way Brewing Company; Salud Cerveceria;
I’ve never planned one, I have attended and
Resident Culture; Mythic Brewing; Koi Pond
worked at dozens in multiple states so I’m
Brewing; Crystal Coast Brewing Company;
confident that our festival will be a success.”
Hopfly; DSSOLVR; Ardent Craft Ales; Aleworks;
General admission hours are noon to 4 p.m.
Flying Machine; Casita; Grain Hustle; Burley
Tickets can be purchased the day of the festival
Oak; Troegs Independent Brewing; Brewery
only if they are not sold out before then. The
Bhava; and Cellarest Beer Project.
event is for people 21 years old or older, and festival attendees will not be allowed back into
Non beer drinkers can enjoy beverages from Garagiste Meadery and Ben’s American Sake.
To purchase tickets, visit rockymountbeerfest.com/ buy-tickets. Tickets also will be available to purchase at the door if not sold out. 2021 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 3
4 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 2021
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TASTY DAYS ON THE REW & ‘CUE CUE TRAIL TRA BREW
m e g n e d d i Another h
Your adventure begins on the Pitt County Brew & ‘Cue Trail. Discover the birthplace of Eastern North Carolina BBQ with mandatory “pit stops” at B’s, Skylight Inn, Sam Jones BBQ and all the places that put whole hog ‘cue on the map. Hungry for more? See one-of-a-kind art sculptures, attend an outdoor jam at Town Common or lose yourself in the Uptown District. NC’s Emerald City is filled with countless hidden gems.
Find yours at VisitGreenvilleNC.com 6 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 2021
B REWERY B HAVANA By Paige Minshew Located in the historic Moore Park Square in downtown Raleigh, Brewery Bhavana has certainly left its mark. Since opening in March 2017, the brewery has received numerous awards including being named one of the 10 Coolest Places to Eat in the World in 2018 by Forbes and one of Bon Appetit's 10 Best New Restaurants in America. The restaurant was also named a semi-finalist for a James Beard Award in 2018. “Inspired by our team's years of travel, education and personal experience, each beer reminds us of a moment, a person or a place that we’ve loved,” Brewery Bhavana spokeswoman Courtney Osgood said. “Some are more playful in nature and some a bit more sentimental, but all are a reflection of an experience that our team has had throughout the years that have been meaningful in one way or another. Our beer is and has always been a way for us to connect to our guests in a different, more unique way.” Part brewery, part dim sum restaurant, Brewery Bhavana was the first of its kind in Raleigh. The original founders knew they had something special when their love of food and culture, coupled with the beer world, broadened a perspective not yet seen. Osgood said the beer served at Brewery Bhavana reflects a lot of the Asian culture with styles like Glean and Bloom. Glean is a mango peppercorn Saison and Bloom is a dry, Cardamom Tripel. “Our best seller is definitely Grove, our citrusy double IPA,” she said. “People love it. It’s been a fan favorite since we launched it about three years ago. And actually, it was a beer that we worked on for nearly three years prior to
Our beer is and has always been a way for us to connect to our guests in a different, more unique way. launching. It took a lot of finesse for us to nail it — and once we did, we rolled it out and were thrilled with the
“We knew that at some point, we’d be able to get back out there and mingle with our customers and guests, so at this point, we’re taking every opportunity to do so, and the Rocky Mount Beer Fest is one that we’re really looking forward to. We love supporting local — they’re our lifeblood. They’re what keeps us going. So it’s a win-win.” Brewery Bhavana is open from 4 to 10 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays.
reception.” The latest beer launched this summer by Brewery Bhavana is a Rose Ale called Petal. It’s quickly become a fan favorite because of its drinkability and effervescent nature. “One of the most special and fun parts of the beer business is the social aspect of coming together and enjoying a great beer," Osgood said. " Once COVID hit, like all other breweries and restaurants, that connection component of our business completely stopped. It was really hard on everyone and we had to pivot.
2021 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 7
ThirsT in FlighT
By Lewis Smith Greetings fellow wing-people, and welcome
seem cool and probably have a lot going on.
to Thirst In Flight, a simple sampler of tempting
For the first flight of a column about. .
tastes of our favorite hoppy beverages. The
.uhm, flights, I decided to check in at a spot on
focus of this column is to drink a lot of beer in a
Highway 70 in New Bern NC called The Garage,
short amount of time in very cool locales all in our corner of the state and, when a set number of words fall out of my brain (usually through a process we call “typing”), and are printed on a page that is attractively designed and printed, that you subsequently read and think “hey, I
which, as you may have guessed, is a dairy. No, I’m kidding—it’s a converted auto garage, and there’s tons of automotive paraphernalia around, along with the usual cozy comforts a good taproom/brewery/event venue can be
need to try some of these!” and you go and
counted on to have. And to really sell this new
drink some of them, and. . .I dunno, probably
column as a going entity, I decided to do TWO
write a column about them yourself, maybe.
flights, so buckle in: it’s time for some double
I mean, I don’t know you personally, but you
garage Days, VisiTeD
drankin’
FlighT One: 1. Formed On The Edge/ DSSOLVR (Rice Lager) I’d heard many good things about DSSOLVR and the idea of finally getting to try one of their beers was exciting, especially in a style I don’t usually get to drink. And it sure didn’t disappoint: Initially light and a little crispy, but not pilsner-style crispy with a dry finish to it. A great, unique and refreshing beer.
2.
Hurley
Orange
Park
Blood
Wheat/New
Sarum
(Wheat Beer) I’ll never say no to trying something with blood orange in it, as I find it really pairs well with any beer and makes for an interesting flavor combination, and this was no different. Light, crushable wheat beer flavor meets a tart splash of blood orange for a crisp and fruity taste with a dry finish. Just the thing for the summer months in NC.
8 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 2021
3. Oh Noooo!/Bhramari Brewing
4.
Lime
Agave/Ginger’s
Revenge
(Sour/Berliner
(Ginger Beer) The first time I tried a
Weisse) The fella at the Garage
ginger beer, I the hitherto undreamed of
said it’ll taste a bit like Kool-
concentration of ginger blew the top of my
Aid, and he wasn’t really wrong
head right off my skull (I’m still waiting for that
at all—it starts tart enough, but
to come back down) So I figured I was about
has that sweet and very dry
ready for a new turn at this, and gave this a
finish that makes you go “OH
shot, and it’s really good. You taste the lime
YEAHHHH!” and run straight
first, then there’s a little ginger burn (not too
through a brick wall. But only
much) and then a sweet and syrupy finish.
if you drink too much, which is
This was a real surprise, and I’m curious to
why every beer you partake is a
see what else Ginger’s Revenge can do with
reminder to always know your
ginger beers. With that circuit completed, it
limitations.
was then time for Flight Two.
Flight two: 1. Turtleback Brown /
Pisgah
2. Cherry Point Stout/Shortway Brewing Company (Stout) If
Brewing
you’re like me, you have a lot of time for Newport’s own Shortway Brewing.
(Brown Ale) This was
The promise of a stout brewed by them was very enticing and it didn’t
my first run-in with Pisgah
disappoint. There are notes of black
Brewing’s offerings, and it
cherries in the very last bit of the finish to
was a solid choice. Mighty
this, but more than anything, this is full-on
and malty and roast as all
roasting overdrive. And yet, it’s not heavy,
hell, with a few notes of
which you’d expect it to be, but that’s
caramel and chocolate to
why Shortway is so good. Just the thing
be found. Took a few sips
for dark beer season, or when you want
to really unlock all of the
stouts but don’t want to feel like you’ve just
flavor profile, but I was
been kissed full on the lips by a Peterbilt
pretty pleased with it.
semitrailer going about 80 MPH.
3. Vienna Lager/Devil’s Backbone (Vienna Lager) An outlier, as DB’s in Virginia, but
working
with
what’s
there at the moment is the name of the game. Not bad at all—extremely malty, has a bit of a sweet finish. I wasn’t disappointed necessarily but it was surrounded by so many other beers that were really pushing the envelope it . . .kinda got lost a bit.
4.
Southern
A’Peel/
Shortway Brewing Company (Wheat Beer) Yes, that’s right— TWO Shortway beers. We went THAT big. Southern A’Peel is a light, sweet, and ever so slightly syrupy
wheat
interesting
beer
flavor
with
profile,
an that
was an interesting contrast to their stout, but more in keeping with their stock in trade, which is delightful, drinkable beers with little flavor surprises like this.
And there we go! Thirst In Flight is off the ground, in the air, and outta sight! Thanks for taking some of your time to read this fun little feature, fried up special for the Festival. May all your favorite flavors be fondly found in flight!
2021 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 9
Band Profile
Will West & the Friendly strangers Whether they're performing for 1000's at a summer music festival or a handful of listeners at an intimate house
11 years old. First finding a love for Old-Time Blues and Heavy Metal music.
concert, Will West and company create a comfortable
In 2002, he loaded up his guitar, his dog and a handful
vibe and energy with their friendly fusion sounds. It's
of original tunes and moved to Portland, Oregon. From
hard to describe this band's style with just a few words.
his humble beginnings busking on downtown sidewalks
Their shows continue to evolve and change from night
and exploring open-mics, Will West has been on a steady
to night depending on the band configuration. Will West
rise in this rich Northwest music scene.
has just started to get into the NW Festival Circuit with
He is joined by a collection of stellar musicians called
recent performances at Wildwood Musicfest, Juniper Jam,
The Friendly Strangers. Together they create a signature
Pinefest, Brewcamp & Manzanita Music Festival. They've
blend of Modern Folk, Bluegrass, Pop and Groove
shared the stage with Ryan Montbleau, Sallie Ford & The
elements. Will West & The Friendly Strangers live shows
Sound Outside, Vintage Trouble, The Lumineers, Fruition,
can be wildly different from night to night. They perform
Dirty Revival, Scott Pemberton, Cascade Crescendo, Poor
in a variety of Trios, Quartets and Big Band line-ups for
Man's Whiskey, The Druthers, Lewi Longmire and many
special events.
more over the past 8 yrs. The son of a fiddle player, Will West grew up in rural eastern North Carolina. Inspired by his parent's vast record collection, he began playing guitar when he was
They released their latest album "Transitions" (side a) in July 2019. A collection of songs touching on Rock, Pop, Groove and Big Horn sounds.
4238 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28 403 • (910) 726-9115
seeyouatbills.com/bills-brewing
10 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 2021
TARBORO RIVERFRONT
Kid Friendly Event Benefitting Tarboro Development Corporation Food Trucks On Site 2021 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 11
Band Profile
The DogwooDs The Dogwoods are one of those bands
music and harmony perfection, he’s the
that just had to happen. The few months
proverbial rudder of the band. Olsen (drums,
they have been together does not truly
vocals) brings to the table a bit of local music
tell the story of the many years they have
royalty as the son of Speakeasy guitarist,
been a part of the local music scene here in
Gerald Bunn. Olsen, beats the drums into
Rocky Mount. These Four homegrown fellas; (Jordan Powell, Brian Mull, Olsen Bunn, Robert Davis) cut their teeth separately in various local bands, regional acts and solo gigs from Rocky Mount, NC to Nashville, TN, all the way down to Atlanta, GA. Jordan (guitar, vocals) fronts the band center stage, a walking jukebox full of crowd pleasing hits.
submission night after night and engages with the crowd like a veteran frontman of old. Rob Davis (lead guitar, vocals) finally makes his home town return after a 10 year hiatus in Music city. The Guitar is behind his head, sequin jacket on his back and the blues in veins, he remains a showman and a great
He has the voice of an angel, sporting a jet
lead guitarist. These guys have locked arms
black mullet and the stage presence liken to
in talent and vision to bring to the local area
a wild bobcat waiting to pounce. Brian (bass
the band we have been waiting for. Simply,
guitar, vocals) the fan favorite keeps the
they are a rock and roll band here to help
crowd dancing with low end grooves and
this great city have good time! They are, The
cheery banter. Raised by his parents on banjo
Dogwoods.
Serving Local Brews and Good Vibes.
Thursday 4:30-9 Friday 4:30-10 Saturday 1-10 Sunday 1-6
112 Madison St. Warrenton, NC 27589 12 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 2021
Sylvan Heights Bird Park’s annual BBQ competition returns! Local cooks will compete to be BBQ cook-off champion - trythem all and vote for your favorites while sampling beverages from NC craft brewers and distillers. Your ticket also includes admission to Sylvan Heights Bird Park, plus games, music, and more!
Ticket sales begin January 12th at shwpark.com
Relax & enjoy a beer in the heart of Oriental, NC! Sample our locally-inspired craft ales. Guest taps featuring NC’s best craft breweries, rotated weekly. Family & pet-friendly!
INLAND WATE
For more info., contact events@shwpark.com or (252) 826-3186. AY PROVIS W R
COMPANY ION
on 100 Ce ta + N leb p s C ra in b tin ce re g Ju we ne rie 20 s 17 !
MARCH 12, 2022 5 P.M. - 8 P.M.
ORIENTAL, NC 305 Hodges St. ICW MM 182 Oriental NC www.inlandwaterwayprovisioncompany.com (252) 249-1797 WE ARE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9:30 TO 5:30 M-SA • 10 TO 4 SUN Come check out our ever-growing selection of craft beers!
Best Beer Lili’s BreakfastStout
702 Broad St. Oriental NC • (252) 249-6132 • newvillagebrewery.com Thursday 4-8; Friday 4-9 and Saturday 2-9pm. • Food trucks 4-8 every Fri. & Sat. 2021 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 13
40 Draft Lines 350+ Bottles Dog-friendly
We sell kegs We sell growlers Beer & Wine Private Event Room
Your friendly neighborhood taproom Featuring Local Draft and Craft Brews From Area Breweries 650 E Firetower Rd Winterville, NC 28590 (252) 689-6455
tapped650.com
MON 1-8:30pm TUES-WED-THUR 1-10pm FRI 1-11pm SAT 12pm-12am SUN 12pm-9pm
526 N. Main St.,Tarboro
1121 Falls Road, Rocky Mount
252.563.6522
252.231.3399
Wed.-Thurs.: 5:00 - 9 p.m. • Fri.: 5:00 - 10 p.m. Saturday: 11 - 11 p.m. • Sunday: 12 - 6 p.m.
14 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 2021
Wed.-Fri.: 5:00 - 10 p.m. Saturday: 12 - 10 p.m. • Sunday: 12 - 6 p.m.
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2021 | Rocky Mount Beer Fest | 15
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