Even the Charlotte Observer acknowledges that fewer restrictions on alcohol production and sales jump-started North Carolina’s craft beer industry.
The growth began in 2005, when N.C. legislators passed a law allowing for higher content alcohol in beer sold here. Now, lawmakers have passed a smaller but important bill that allows breweries, regardless of size, to offer tastings and sell beer on site – even beers produced outside the state.
The measure would help North Carolina’s craft brewing industry flourish even more, not only by promoting interest in craft beer, but also by giving brewers another revenue stream. The change also could prompt larger west coast brewers to open east coast operations and bring jobs here.
Let’s raise a glass of our favorite NC brew (mine is Aviator Steamhead) and salute these entrepreneurs and job creators.
