Lake Norman is fast becoming known for a different sort of liquid – craft beer! So put your paddles down as we take a quick dip into some of the area’s recent openings and Cornelius community favorites.
Eleven Lakes Brewing
10228 Bailey Road, Suite 201
Cornelius, NC 28031
The grand opening is Saturday, June 3 but Eleven Lakes Brewing’s hops are already hopping. The community has flocked to the small and friendly abode during a series of soft openings.
Patrons are loving the laid back vibe with savvy service; somewhat unconventional for a craft brewery, the knowledgeable staff mingle with the customers bringing beers, collecting glasses, and sharing a laugh. And, in partnership with local caterer Armin’s, brewery staff will even deliver delish snacks including homemade salsas and pesto chicken sandwiches.
Masterbrewer Ray already has some fan favorites on tap including the not-too-heavy-not-too-light Paddle Session IPA, the smooth Coconut Porter, the gorgeous River Otter Red, and the quintessential Tributary Ale. The yet-to-be named ‘habanero apricot’ proved so popular they ran out (but it’ll be back soon); one of the owner’s namesake beers ‘Teri’s Berry Wheat’ is a good stand in with its refreshing raspberry base.
The décor is still a work in progress, as is the outdoor seating area, but with great beer and good friends none of that seems to matter.
Bayne Brewing Company
19507 suite I
Cornelius, NC 28031
Just down the road is Bayne Brewing Company. With 1% of sales donated to the Diann Fossey Fund, the signature coffee portor Koko is a must try, along with citrusy customer favorite the Jalabayno IPA.
D9 Brewing Company
11138-C Treynorth Drive
Cornelius, NC 28031
This local legend has gone national with their mission to inspire and support community through the creation of exciting and original crafted beers. Make sure to sip on the award-winning Systema Naturae 2nd Edition – Scuppernong & Lily wild sour ale, during one of their free facility tours. Or perhaps the tropical IPA, Hakuna Matata, is just what you need this summer during Tuesday night’s Yoga & Brew classes.
Ass Clown
10620 Bailey rd. Suite E
Cornelius, NC 28031
While Ass Clown brews can be found at many locations throughout North Carolina, Cornelius is home to their nine barrel system, and a massive variety of beer flavors on the 31 tap system. The lineup includes year rounders, limited releases, and seasonal brews. You can’t go wrong with their summer beers including the aromatic Orange Honey Pale Ale, and the floral and zesty Orange Mint IPA.
Other Cornelius friends with craft beer available include Bottled & Tapped, Cornelius Drafthouse & Bottle Shop and Old Town Public House. And, of course many daydream-y Saturday afternoon hopes are pinned to the promise of a Cornelius location coming soon for Old Mecklenburg Brewery.
About The Writer:
Bek is an Australian native who has lived at Lake Norman for more than a decade.
With an interest in art, fitness, fashion, and non-profits, she always finds a new story rolling around Charlotte and the Lake.
