Exploring Local Breweries and Wineries in Cape Fear
Cape Fear is not only known for its beautiful beaches and historic sites but also for its vibrant and growing scene of breweries and wineries. Whether you're a fan of craft beer or enjoy a glass of fine wine, the region offers a variety of establishments where you can taste locally crafted beverages, learn about the brewing and winemaking processes, and enjoy a relaxing day out. Here’s a guide to some of the best local breweries and wineries in Cape Fear.
Local Breweries
Wrightsville Beach Brewery
Location: 6201 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC
Why It’s Great: Wrightsville Beach Brewery combines a love for craft beer with a commitment to environmental sustainability. The brewery offers a wide range of beers, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, and features a spacious taproom and outdoor beer garden.
Highlights:
Beer Flights: Sample a variety of beers with a tasting flight.
Food Pairings: Enjoy a meal from their full menu, which includes seafood, burgers, and vegetarian options.
Community Events: Participate in brewery tours, live music nights, and community events.
Front Street Brewery
Location: 9 N Front St, Wilmington, NC
Why It’s Great: As Wilmington’s original brewery, Front Street Brewery has been serving up delicious craft beer since 1995. The brewery offers a diverse selection of beers, including seasonal specials and year-round favorites.
Highlights:
Brewery Tours: Take a free tour to learn about the brewing process and the history of the brewery.
Extensive Menu: Pair your beer with a meal from their extensive menu, featuring Southern cuisine and pub fare.
Award-Winning Beers: Try their award-winning Port City IPA and other popular brews.
Waterline Brewing Company
Location: 721 Surry St, Wilmington, NC
Why It’s Great: Located under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, Waterline Brewing Company offers a unique and historic setting for enjoying craft beer. The brewery is housed in a restored World War II-era warehouse and features a spacious taproom and outdoor area.
Highlights:
Historic Venue: Enjoy beer in a venue with historical significance.
Rotating Taps: Experience a variety of beers on rotating taps, including IPAs, porters, and lagers.
Events and Activities: Participate in events such as yoga classes, trivia nights, and live music.
New Anthem Beer Project
Location: 116 Dock St, Wilmington, NC
Why It’s Great: New Anthem Beer Project is known for its innovative and flavorful craft beers. The brewery focuses on hop-forward ales and rich, malty stouts, offering something for every beer enthusiast.
Highlights:
Craft Excellence: Enjoy high-quality, creatively brewed beers.
Taproom Experience: Relax in their inviting taproom, perfect for sampling new brews.
Special Releases: Look out for limited edition and seasonal beers.
Local Wineries
Noni Bacca Winery
Location: 420 Eastwood Rd #108, Wilmington, NC
Why It’s Great: Noni Bacca Winery is an award-winning winery that offers a wide range of wines, from dry reds and whites to sweet fruit wines. The winery is known for its friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff.
Highlights:
Wine Tastings: Sample a variety of wines with their tasting flights.
Wine Slushies: Cool off with their popular wine slushies, perfect for a hot day.
Custom Labels: Create personalized wine labels for special occasions.
Silver Coast Winery
Location: 6680 Barbeque Rd NW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC
Why It’s Great: Situated a short drive from Cape Fear, Silver Coast Winery offers a picturesque setting with its vineyard and winery. The winery produces European-style wines and provides an educational and enjoyable tasting experience.
Highlights:
Vineyard Tours: Take a guided tour of the vineyard and learn about the winemaking process.
Tasting Room: Enjoy tastings in their elegant tasting room, which also features local art.
Special Events: Attend special events such as wine and cheese pairings, live music, and art shows.
Duplin Winery
Location: 505 N Sycamore St, Rose Hill, NC
Why It’s Great: Duplin Winery is one of the largest and oldest wineries in the South, known for its muscadine wines. The winery offers a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of wine tasting options.
Highlights:
Wine Tastings: Experience their wide range of muscadine wines through guided tastings.
Bistro and Gift Shop: Enjoy a meal at their bistro and browse their gift shop for unique wine-related items.
Winery Tours: Learn about the history and production of muscadine wine through informative tours.
Cape Fear Vineyard & Winery
Location: 218A Devane St, Elizabethtown, NC
Why It’s Great: Cape Fear Vineyard & Winery offers a serene and picturesque setting, featuring beautiful gardens, a lake, and charming accommodations. The winery produces a variety of wines and hosts numerous events throughout the year.
Highlights:
Wine Tastings: Sample their selection of wines in a relaxing environment.
Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning views of the vineyard and gardens while you sip.
On-Site Restaurant: Dine at their on-site restaurant, which offers delicious meals paired with their wines.
Tips for Enjoying Breweries and Wineries
Plan Ahead: Check the opening hours and tour schedules of the breweries and wineries you plan to visit.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re visiting multiple locations.
Eat Well: Enjoy meals and snacks to complement your tastings and keep your energy levels up.
Designated Driver: Ensure you have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service to stay safe.
Conclusion
Cape Fear’s breweries and wineries offer a delightful mix of flavors, settings, and experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these establishments is a great way to support local businesses and enjoy the region’s vibrant beverage scene. Plan your visits, savor the tastes, and create lasting memories with friends and family. Cheers!
