History of French Broad River Brewery

Founding and Early Years

French Broad River Brewery was founded in 2000, becoming one of Asheville, North Carolina’s pioneering craft breweries. The brewery was the vision of Jonas Rembert, a brewer from Green Man Brewery, who sought to create a space dedicated to European-style beers brewed with traditional methods. French Broad quickly gained a reputation for its standout beers like Gateway Kölsch, 13 Rebels ESB, and Wee Heavy-er Scotch Style Ale, embodying its original tagline, “World Beer…Asheville Flavor.”

Andy Dahm, a key figure from the brewery’s inception, was instrumental in its early success. His passion for brewing and commitment to quality helped establish French Broad as a cornerstone in Asheville’s burgeoning craft beer scene.

Growth and Expansion

Over the years, French Broad River Brewery expanded its influence, becoming a key player in establishing Asheville as a craft beer destination. The brewery’s offerings, known for their traditional European roots, found a loyal following not just locally, but throughout North Carolina and the Southeast.

Throughout its history, French Broad has seen several head brewers contribute to its success. Each brought their unique touch to the brewing process, ensuring that the brewery’s beers remained both consistent in quality and innovative in style. These head brewers played pivotal roles in crafting the beloved beers that French Broad is known for, further solidifying its reputation.

Ownership Changes and Revitalization

In June 2017, French Broad River Brewery entered a new era under the ownership of Paul and Sarah Casey from Chapel Hill, NC. The Caseys, recognizing the brewery’s rich heritage and strong community ties, aimed to revitalize the brand. Their strategy included expanding production, introducing new seasonal and small-batch brews, and giving the brand a refreshed image—all while staying true to the brewery’s roots.

Our team has brought a renewed sense of energy and direction to French Broad. Our focus is on enhancing the brewery’s infrastructure and deepening its community engagement to ensure that French Broad remains a vital part of Asheville’s craft beer landscape.

Current Status and Ongoing Improvements

Today, French Broad River Brewery remains a vibrant part of Asheville’s craft beer community. The brewery continues to produce a wide range of high-quality beers that reflect its European influences, while also exploring new trends in the brewing world. The Biltmore Village taproom has become a popular gathering spot, hosting live music, supporting local artists, and providing a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors. The ongoing commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement ensures that French Broad River Brewery will continue to be a key player in Asheville’s craft beer scene for years to come​.