Background – Olde Hickory Brewery
Founded in 1994 by Brewer/Co-Owner Steven Lyerly and Jason Yates, Olde Hickory Brewery is North Carolina’s fourth-oldest continuously operating microbrewery. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the brewery began with just a seven-barrel converted dairy system. In 1997, they began the renovation of an 1880 historic landmark building, which now houses Olde Hickory’s brewing facilities, a 25-barrel Price Schonstrom brew house.
Experience
Olde Hickory Brewery is located in the charming Union Square in downtown Hickory. They had several beers on tap and the flights are served on an artist palette, a hip and clever addition in a brewery with a rustic vibe. They also bottle their beers for sale and takeout. I enjoyed the Brown Mountain Lights which was low-alcohol and very drinkable. The Pilsner was quite delicious as well. Ruby Lager is their Red Ale, with a light candy and caramelized sugar flavor.
Right across the railroad tracks from Olde Hickory Brewery is another facility called The Olde Hickory Station which is located in an old train depot. A very cute place that has 50 beers on tap, some of theirs and a lot of other local beers. We enjoyed a Berliner Weisse that they make which was very delicious. Also tried a couple of Wicked Weed beers (a definite North Carolina favorite). Adding a delicious pickled egg and visiting with the very friendly bartender David will complete your visit. This is a spot since you have these two locations you can visit, both offer food depending on what you’re in the mood for. You have the classic bar food at The Olde Hickory Brewery if you want that classic Tavern feel or a little more trendy marketplace with outdoor tables at the Hickory Station right across the street.
Plenty of parking, no nearby lodging noted.
When in the area check out Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton !
http://www.oldehickorybrewery.com/
