Beer Around The NFL: Carolina Panthers
Throughout the fall we have been taking a look at the beer scenes in cities representing all 32 NFL teams — from local brewers to beer-centric bars to the finest beer shops. One thing is for sure, football fans are drinking very well. And if you're not into sports but enjoy a quality imperial oatmeal stout, then read on anyway to see how cities across the country are taking their suds more seriously than ever. Up next, the Carolina Panthers. (FYI: The team is based in Charlotte, North Carolina).
WHAT TO DRINK
The Duck-Rabbit Brown Ale: The Farmville, North Carolina microbrewery's American brown ale pours out chestnut brown and cloudy in the glass. In the mouth, it's bitter, floral and citrusy, rounded out by nutty, malty and caramelized flavors. duckrabbitbrewery.com
NoDa "Coco Loco" Porter: This Charlotte craft brewer is barely a year old, yet is already cropping up in craft beer bars and shops in the area. As the name suggests, notes of bittersweet chocolate and toasted coconut come through, as well as some coffee. nodabrewing.com
Highland "Gaelic" Ale: This bright American amber ale is true to its name, pouring amber in color, and well-balanced between citrusy, floral hops and sweet malty character. It's no wonder the brewery calls it their "workhorse beer." highlandbrewing.com
WHERE TO DRINK IT
Growlers Pour House: Located in NoDa (that's North Davidson to all you non-locals), this beer bar serves only American beer – more than a dozen taps of it, and much of it small, craft brews, including cask ales from a 1936 antique hand-pump beer engine. Order by the pint or by the growler for the table. Or opt for a beer cocktail, like an elderflower-laced shandy or beery Pimm's Cup. 9605 North Tryon Street, Suite A, 704-568-7ALE, growlerspourhouse.com
Duckworth's Grill and Taphouse: The first location of this restaurant opened in Mooresville and there are now two other locations in Charlotte. With up to 80 taps, depending on the location, the focus is on domestic and, especially, local beers, with a good many offerings from around North Carolina. 4435 Park Road, 704-527-5783 and 14015 Conlan Circle, 704-752-7284, duckworthsgrillandbar.com
WHERE TO BUY IT
The Common Market: Like a convenience store-slash-lunch counter-slash beer bar, the two locations sell hot and cold sandwiches and breakfast, as well as meat, cheese and salads by the pound. Most importantly, it sells beer, with a focus on domestic craft brews. Stop in to by for a six-pack or stay and sip a pint. 2007 Commonwealth Avenue, 704-334-6209 and 1515 South Tryon Street, 704-332-7782, commonmarketisgood.com
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