Award-Winning Wye Hill Brewing Announces New Head Brewer Connor Tyo

Wye Hill Brewing, the award-winning brewing arm of Raleigh, NC-based Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing, has ushered in a new era, announcing Connor Tyo as its new Head Brewer. Tyo formally joined the Wye Hill team in January 2026 by way of Legion Brewing in Charlotte, NC, where he led the brewery as its Head Brewer and Director of Production. 

“We’re ecstatic to have Connor at the helm of Wye Hill Brewing,” says Sara Abernethy, Wye Hill Hospitality co-owner. “Connor’s background and range as a brewer are incredible, and he’s been an immediate catalyst for the team. He’s been busy developing a lineup of fresh, imaginative beers that taste as good as they sound. We’re thrilled for everyone to experience what’s next!”

Under Tyo’s direction, Wye Hill Brewing is set to release four new beers in February and March alone. His debut beer, Reverent Hands, an Irish Dry Stout, is set to release on February 27. A rich, full-bodied stout brewed with Carolina Gold malt, roasted barley, and chocolate malt, Reverent Hands is smooth, balanced, and timeless. 

Brewed specifically for release during Women’s History Month, Wye Hill Brewing will release When There Are Nine, a juicy a thiolized Pale Wheat Ale with Blood Orange. Additionally, a Carolina Pilsner, dubbed Crossed The Crest, brewed with 100% Carolina Malt House grains and Michigan-grown Zuper Saazer hops, culminating in a crisp, clean, intentional and easy-drinking pilsner, will also be released in March, along with a new, creative Fruited Sour by Tyo.

“I’m thrilled to step into the Head Brewer role at Wye Hill Brewing, a place with a strong reputation and a community that truly cares about great beer,” says Tyo. “I’m excited to bring what I’ve learned throughout my career to this team and to keep pushing a lineup of beers that are creative, balanced, and highly drinkable.”

Tyo is an Appalachian State University alum. He got his start in professional brewing at Southern Peak Brewery and became a certified Brewmaster through VLB Berlin in 2020.