Asheville’s Thirst for Aussie Brews: Where to Find Them
Asheville, North Carolina – a city renowned for its vibrant craft beer scene, stunning mountain vistas, and eclectic arts community. While the local breweries here are world-class, sometimes you just crave a taste of home, or perhaps an adventurous dive into something new. For those of us in Asheville with a hankering for Australian beer, the quest might seem daunting. But fear not, fellow beer enthusiasts! As a long-time resident and passionate explorer of Asheville’s beverage landscape, I’m here to guide you through the best spots to snag a cold one from Down Under.
The craft beer culture in Asheville is so strong, it’s almost a religion. With over 50 breweries within city limits, it’s easy to get lost in the haze of IPAs, sours, and lagers brewed right here in the Blue Ridge Mountains. However, the global reach of beer means that even in this mountain enclave, you can often find international treasures. Australian beers, with their unique hop profiles and refreshing character, are becoming increasingly popular, and thankfully, Asheville has a few key places where you can reliably find them.
The Best Bottle Shops and Specialty Stores
When it comes to finding a specific international beer, specialty bottle shops are your best bet. These are the treasure troves where dedicated owners curate a selection that goes far beyond the mainstream. They understand the nuances of different beer styles and origins, and often have a keen interest in sourcing unique imports.
1. Craft Beer Cellar Asheville
Address: 1020 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC 28806
Craft Beer Cellar is a nationally recognized chain, but each location operates with a strong local feel, and Asheville’s is no exception. They pride themselves on an extensive and meticulously curated selection of beers from around the world. While their focus is broad, they often carry a rotating selection of Australian craft beers. You might find anything from a crisp Australian lager to a hop-forward pale ale from a smaller Australian brewery. The staff here are incredibly knowledgeable and are always happy to help you navigate their shelves. Don’t hesitate to ask if they have any Australian selections in stock or if they are expecting any shipments. They are a fantastic resource for exploring beyond the usual suspects.
2. The Beer Stop
Address: 1330 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC 28806
Located not too far from Craft Beer Cellar, The Beer Stop is another excellent independent bottle shop that’s a favorite among Asheville locals. They boast a diverse inventory, with a strong emphasis on craft and imported beers. While their selection can change frequently, they are known to carry a variety of international brews. Keep an eye out for Australian brands here, especially during warmer months when lighter, more refreshing styles are in demand. The owners are passionate about beer and often have great insights into what’s new and exciting, both locally and globally.
3. Green Man Brewery’s Bottle Shop (When Available)
While Green Man Brewery is known for its own excellent beers, sometimes breweries will carry a small selection of complementary or guest beers from other regions. It’s a long shot, but worth checking their bottle shop or asking at the tasting room if they happen to have any Australian beers on hand. Their focus is primarily on their own brews, but the beer community in Asheville is collaborative, and you never know what gems might surface.
Restaurants and Bars with International Selections
Beyond dedicated bottle shops, some of Asheville’s restaurants and bars, particularly those with a focus on global cuisine or a comprehensive beer list, might also feature Australian beers on tap or in their bottles. These places often have a more dynamic offering, so it’s best to check their current menus or call ahead.
1. White Duck Taco Shop
Locations: Multiple, including 388 Riverside Dr, Asheville, NC 28804 and 12 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
White Duck Taco Shop is a beloved Asheville institution, famous for its creative and delicious tacos. They also have a surprisingly good beer selection that often includes a few rotating taps featuring regional and international brews. While not a primary focus, they are known to occasionally pour Australian lagers or pale ales, perfect for pairing with their flavorful tacos. It’s a casual and fun environment, making it a great spot to enjoy a beer and a bite.
2. Thirsty Monk Brewery
Locations: Multiple, including 12 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC 28801 (Downtown)
Thirsty Monk is a well-established name in Asheville’s beer scene. While they brew their own Belgian-inspired ales, their downtown location often features a broad selection of guest taps from around the world. It’s a prime candidate for finding an Australian beer on tap, especially if they are featuring a special international beer week or a seasonal promotion. Their knowledgeable staff can often point you in the right direction.
3. The Biergarten at The Bavarian Restaurant (German Restaurant)
Address: 121 Sweeten Creek Rd, Asheville, NC 28803
While primarily a German restaurant, The Bavarian prides itself on a wide array of beers, including imports. It’s worth inquiring if they have any Australian lagers or ales that complement their European offerings. Sometimes, a restaurant with a diverse beer menu will stock a few well-known international brands, even if they aren’t the main focus.
Online Ordering and Delivery: The Modern Approach
In today’s connected world, the internet offers a powerful way to access beers that might not be readily available on your local shelves. For those seeking Australian beers in Asheville, online ordering is a fantastic option. Websites that specialize in craft beer delivery can ship directly to your door, provided you meet their age and shipping requirements.
Dropt.Beer is an excellent platform to consider. They offer a wide selection of craft beers from breweries across the country and increasingly, from international sources. Their website is user-friendly, allowing you to browse by origin, style, or brewery. You can often find Australian craft beers here that you won’t see in local stores. They have a robust online shop and also provide valuable insights and news about the beer world on their blog, which is a great resource for discovering new brews and breweries. It’s a convenient way to ensure you get your Australian beer fix without leaving your home in Asheville. Explore their offerings at dropt.beer, check out their shop at dropt.beer/shop/, and stay updated with their latest news at dropt.beer/insights-news-blog/.
What Australian Beers to Look For
When you’re on the hunt, knowing what brands and styles to look for can make your search more efficient. Australia has a diverse beer landscape, ranging from large commercial breweries to innovative craft producers.
- Commercial Lagers: Brands like Foster’s (though often seen as more of an international export brand than a true craft favorite), Victoria Bitter (VB), and Carlton Draught are iconic Australian lagers. While more common in pubs back home, you might occasionally find them in specialty shops. They are known for being crisp, clean, and sessionable.
- Craft Pale Ales and IPAs: The Australian craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with breweries like Stone & Wood, Balter, and Pirate Life gaining international recognition. Look for their Pacific Ales, India Pale Ales, and other hop-forward creations. They often feature unique Australian hop varietals like Ella, Vic Secret, and Galaxy, which impart tropical fruit and citrus notes.
- Wheat Beers and Sours: As the market matures, you’ll also find Australian breweries experimenting with wheat beers and various sour styles, often with a tropical twist.
Insider Tips for Asheville Beer Hunters
As a local, I’ve learned a few tricks for navigating Asheville’s beer scene, and they apply to finding international brews too:
- Talk to the Experts: The staff at bottle shops like Craft Beer Cellar and The Beer Stop are your best allies. They have their finger on the pulse of what’s coming in and what’s trending.
- Check Rotating Taps: Bars and restaurants with extensive tap lists often rotate their offerings. Follow them on social media – many will announce new arrivals and featured beers.
- Attend Beer Festivals: While Asheville has many local festivals, keep an eye out for any events that might focus on international beers or have vendors showcasing imports.
- Join Local Beer Groups: Online forums or local Facebook groups dedicated to Asheville beer can be great places to ask questions and get recommendations from fellow enthusiasts. Someone might have just spotted a rare Australian gem!
- Embrace the Hunt: Part of the fun of finding unique beers is the search itself. Be patient, and enjoy the journey of discovery.
A Note on Availability
It’s important to manage expectations. While Asheville has a fantastic beer culture, Australian beers are not as ubiquitous as local craft brews. Availability can fluctuate significantly based on distribution, seasonality, and the specific importing efforts of distributors and retailers. What you find one week might be gone the next. This is where services like dropt.beer truly shine, offering a more consistent and diverse online selection. Their platform is designed to bridge the gap for enthusiasts looking for beers that aren’t always on the local radar.
Beyond the Beer: Experiencing Asheville
While you’re on your quest for Australian beer, don’t forget to immerse yourself in everything else Asheville has to offer. After a successful beer hunt, perhaps you’ll want to:
- Explore the River Arts District: Wander through studios and galleries, and maybe even catch an artist at work.
- Hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains: Take advantage of the stunning natural beauty surrounding the city. Trails abound, offering breathtaking views.
- Visit the Biltmore Estate: Immerse yourself in history and grandeur at America’s largest home.
- Enjoy Asheville’s Culinary Scene: Beyond tacos, Asheville boasts an incredible array of restaurants, from farm-to-table eateries to international cuisine.
Finding Australian beer in Asheville is certainly achievable with a bit of know-how and a spirit of adventure. Whether you’re visiting or a local looking to expand your horizons, the key is to explore the specialized shops, keep an eye on restaurant and bar menus, and leverage the convenience of online platforms like dropt.beer. Cheers to discovering new flavors and enjoying the best of both worlds – Asheville’s vibrant scene and Australia’s unique brews!
