The big event from last week was the Pop the Cap turns 21 panel and party. It was great to see people from the industry from across the state gathered at Fullsteam’s soon to be launched space. It still has some work to do before it’s ready for to open but Sean has been doing some preview videos here. As I wasn’t in NC at the time, it was educational for me to hear the struggles to change the 6% cap to the modern one. It was also insightful that politicians couldn’t believe it was simply this one ask, no ulterior motive or design. The other part of the program was the Brewer’s Guild launch of the Breweries Make it Better campaign. In addition to marketing for the state’s craft breweries, the program will help support education scholarships for brewery employees. 

Sierra Nevada is in the news for its Hazy Hideaway festival in Mills River. Hi-Wire and Appalachian Mountain Brewery signing a partnership agreement makes sense as AMB bought itself back from InBev so is likely not positioned to make a big expansion currently and Hi-Wire has some capacity available. Last from the mountains Riverbend Malt has been promoting their new Ridgeline Red malt.

In Charlotte WBTV has coverage over the current craft beer market.

Triangle Business Journal has coverage of Fullsteam’s ATC location.

As for events besides the SN Hazy Hideaway festival, Tasty Beverage in Raleigh celebrates 15 years this weekend.