Sip and Savor Your Way Through the Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail
The Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail offers visitors a unique taste of Gaston, Lincoln, and Cleveland Counties with an eclectic mix of breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Each location offers its own distinct personality, handcrafted drinks, and local charm, making the trail a perfect weekend getaway for craft beverage enthusiasts, lifestyle writers, and travelers looking for an experiential trip.
Featured Stops Along the Trail
Baker Buffalo Creek Winery – Lawndale, NC Nestled in the rolling hills of Cleveland County, Baker Buffalo Creek Vineyard is a family-owned vineyard with over 100 years of heritage. Sample wines grown in the fertile soil along Buffalo Creek.
Durty Bull Brewery – Gastonia, NC In the vibrant Fuse District, Durty Bull offers classic lagers, hazy IPAs, and hard seltzers, plus creative food options and a spacious outdoor area perfect for groups and gatherings.
Jekyll and Hyde – Belmont, NC A steampunk-inspired gastropub and brewery, offering an eclectic selection of beers, wine, craft cocktails, and gourmet food in a lively, creative atmosphere.
Keepsake Brewery – Gastonia, NC A family-owned brewery producing easy-drinking lagers in reusable packaging, Keepsake combines community spirit with sustainability.
Muddy River Distillery – Mount Holly, NC Famed for its handcrafted rum, Muddy River uses premium ingredients and custom-built stills to create exceptional spirits in a welcoming environment.
Newgrass Brewing Co. – Shelby, NC A casual, family-friendly brewery, Newgrass brings people together over a variety of excellent craft beers, good times, and community connection.
Primal Brewery – Belmont, NC “Primal” is essential to life, and so is beer here. Primal Brewery produces craft beers for all tastes and styles, serving the community since 2013.
Southern Artisan Spirits – Kings Mountain, NC Dedicated to reviving the lost art of craft distillation, Southern Artisan Spirits pairs handcrafted spirits with gorgeous landscape views and a warm, welcoming tasting environment.
Traust Brewing – Mount Holly, NC Offering Nordic-inspired beers and experiences, Traust blends rustic refinement with contemporary craft brewing culture.
Veronét Vineyards & Winery – Kings Mountain, NC Set at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Veronét offers handcrafted wines in a scenic, tranquil setting, perfect for tasting and relaxing.
WoodMill Winery – Vale, NC Known for Muscadine, Scuppernong, Blackberry, and Blueberry wines, WoodMill Winery offers natural beauty, tranquility, and heart-healthy wines bursting with flavor.
Why This Story Works
Diverse craft experiences: Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits provide something for every palate.
Weekend getaway potential: Pair tastings with local dining, outdoor adventures, and charming small towns.
Visual storytelling opportunities: Taprooms, tasting flights, vineyards, and scenic distilleries are highly photogenic.
Behind-the-scenes stories: Journalists can interview brewers, winemakers, and distillers about techniques, inspiration, and the craft culture.
Story Angles to Explore
Trail Highlights: Showcase the individuality of each stop along the Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail.
Weekend Itinerary: Plan a multi-day adventure combining tastings, local dining, and small-town exploration.
Food & Drink Pairings: Pair craft beverages with nearby restaurants and local cuisine for a full sensory experience.
Seasonal Releases & Events: Feature special tastings, seasonal releases, and holiday-themed events at trail stops.
Media Opportunities
Interviews with owners, brewers, and winemakers
Behind-the-scenes tours of production and tasting rooms
On-site photography and video of tastings, outdoor patios, and scenic landscapes
Access to high-resolution images, B-roll, and custom trail maps
Resources for Story Development
Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail Overview – Trail info, participating locations, and maps
For more information, story development support, or to plan a visit, contact: Melissa McCauley, melissa.mccauley@gastongov.com
