Highland Brewing - Black Watch

That may have been a test batch for what would eventually become the IPA, but at that point the IPA that is being released today had not even been brewed.

 

Either way it's pretty clear that Highland is on an upwards trajectory. Had Black Watch again and it's definitely the best beer I have personally had from them and holds its own against any of these other imperial milk stouts that are everywhere right now.

 

black watch was straight brownie batter to me. cocoa, vanilla, the works. so delicious. anyone know if IPA is replacing kashmir? i had the IPA draft & it was fantastic.

 

Yes it is.

 

When I did my Asheville trip a few months ago Highland was my favorite stop. I expected it to be rather ho-hum but was really impressed with the stuff they had on tap. Several variants of stuff, and it was all very good. The atmosphere was a lot of fun as well, with all the outdoor area in addition to the indoor space. Only negative is that you have to drive to get there from downtown, but that's it.

 

We hit Highland on a regular basis, but not for their regular offerings. Their small batch stuff available only in the tasting room is the reason. They have always had a small batch, but over the last year or so have expanded the number from a couple to typically about 6 now.

Basically there is not one of their year round brews that I would make a visit for (that may change now that they are releasing a West Coast style IPA) but the small batch stuff. Of course it's a great venue, and we really like the deck in good weather. Think roof top is in the plans as part of their major expansion.

 

Nah it was the same thing. They had bottles also at that time. It was only in the VIP/distributor area.

 

Loved Highland years ago and I feel they dropped off the past couple years in both taste and quality. Their PR has room for improvement as I have emailed a handful of breweries and they were the only one not to respond. That said I like the direction they are going and think their new head Brewer is getting them on track to be more competitive in the Ashville market. Highland, thank you for re-labeling/ re-engineering Lost Cove to a Kolsch and Cold Mountain was kick ass as always this past year.

 

I can assure you that it wasn't, but whatever you'd prefer to believe.

 

Grabbed some bottles of the new IPA today, dated 12/30. It's definitely very good. I doubt I'll be reaching for it over Jade or Pernicious any time soon, but I would be happy to have it any time.

Black Watch, however, continues to impress me. I know they bottled it but all I've seen is draft. Any bottles in the Triangle still/ever?

 

Sam's Quik had it a few weeks ago, have to imagine it's gone by now. If you can't find any, let me know - I've got a bottle or two left.

 

For those of you in the Charlotte area, Moe's BBQ in Matthews is doing a highland tap takeover Thursday. Tapping the new ipa, black watch and a BA Gaelic mocha stout blend. And a few other core beers.

 

Tried the new IPA - very solid but not spectacular. However, for the price ($8.99/6 pack), I think it's my new go-to for stocking the fridge.

 

Not just the beer is changing at Highlands. Their rooftop bar is getting near completion. On a clean day you can see mount Pisgah from up there. If you ignore the roads below its a solid view. Will be 21+ only, subject to change. The event space is more or less done, just needs some furniture more or less.

 

In Charlotte, bottles of Black Watch are still available at Craft Tasting Room.