Asheville, N.C. – Now entering their second full year of operation, Sweeten Creek Brewing is making some major behind-the-scenes changes. After seeing a substantial increase in demand for their house beers, owners Joey and Erica Justice are expanding their brew house to a ten barrel brewing system and transitioning their current one-barrel unit to a pilot system.
Since opening in December, 2015, Sweeten Creek Brewing has become a popular destination for area residents, local businesses, and beer enthusiasts. In addition to the brewhouse and tasting room, the brewery features a sandwich shop and an expansive family and dog-friendly outdoor area that plays host to yard games, live music shows, and special events. A picnic table is the main feature on the company logo, a reflection of the Justices’ desire to create a family-centric community space.
“Our patrons were sensational in helping us grow during that critical first year, to the point where we couldn’t keep up with the demand for our house beers on our current system,” says Erica Justice. “The new system allows us to continue to share our craft and passion with the community of people who helped us get this far in the first place.”
With over two decades of brewing experience between them, the Justices have become well respected for their hands-on work ethic and dedication to quality and consistency in their beer. Despite producing over 200 barrels and still falling well short of demand in their first year, they stuck by their commitment to developing consistent, high-quality beers that wouldn’t fall short of their standards. With the potential to increase capacity to 1,560 barrels per year, the new system will enable the brewery to offer the same quality beers year-round in their own tasting room and in select Asheville-area businesses.
Sweeten Creek Brewing’s house drafts include the “Asheville Style” IPA, Pale Ale, Session IPA, Pilsner, and Brown Ale. The pilot system will feature rotating taps of specialty drafts including the Busbee Black IPA, American Maerzen, Irish Red, Porter, and Scootie’s Stout. Patrons can also look forward to new small batch and seasonal brews.
“One of the most exciting aspects of craft brewing is getting to experiment with different styles and flavors,” says Joey Justice. “Now, we can dedicate our one-barrel system specifically to the development of new beers while continuing to provide our customers with the house styles they’ve come to love.”
About Sweeten Creek Brewing
Sweeten Creek Brewing is a group of creative and talented individuals who have directed their passion for craft beer, food, and community into a thriving destination brewery and sandwich shop with a relaxed, comfortable, and family friendly atmosphere. Sweeten Creek Brewing offers a destination for beer enthusiasts while contributing to the surrounding community and industry. Bring the family!