So, here’s the thing. When you’re out with friends and someone asks if you’ve ever tried a catawba drink, you kinda freeze, right? It happened to me at a backyard BBQ, and honestly, I had no idea what they were talking about. I fumbled around with my answer, but all I could think was: can a catawba drink even be that special? Turns out… yep, it totally can. In fact, it’s one of those unexpected stars when you’re looking to mix up your routine after, let’s say, a string of basic lemonades at every party ever. And if you’re into discovering new party drinks, you’ll want to check this out. If you’re curious and always up for something different, you’re in for a treat. 
Catawba Brewing Overview
Okay, story time. The first time I tasted a catawba beverage (at a random pop-up festival, might I add) it was like summer in a cup. Chill, slightly tangy, not too sweet. But here’s the kicker: catawba isn’t just a drink, it’s actually a grape. Who knew? The grape comes from the eastern United States and is kinda famous for making both wine and these crisp, fun drinks that you can jazz up any way you like.
Catawba Brewing, if you haven’t heard about it, sits proudly in North Carolina. They don’t just stick to tradition—they twist things up with the catawba grape. Folks at the brewery put a fresh spin on old recipes, mixing regional flavors with that all-American grape. So, if you’ve been thinking everything on tap tastes the same, this is your sign to break the cycle. Try something a little wild, a little fruity. It’s like going to your favorite diner and finding out they just added a surprise to the menu. 
What’s On Tap
If you’re the type who wants to know every single thing before you visit a brewery (guilty), you’ll be happy to know there is a pretty decent spread at Catawba. From their classic American lagers to tangy grape-forward ales, there’s usually something for everyone. Sometimes I’m in the mood for something light, like their white grape ale—other days, it’s all about those fizzy pink catawba blends.
I gotta say, the variety keeps people coming back. Fruit-forward beers, classic cold brews, and then…every once in a while, a one-off experimental batch that totally catches you off guard in a good way. Even my no-nonsense uncle who “doesn’t like fruity drinks” couldn’t stop sipping from my glass. He pretended it was to “see what the fuss is about.” Suuuure. Yes, it’s that good. 
“Tasting their catawba brew honestly changed my mind about what to expect from craft breweries. So fresh—I tell everyone it’s like drinking summer in a glass.” – Denise, fellow grape-obsessed neighbor
Upcoming Events
Bored of basic Saturday nights? Catawba Brewing is almost always up to something. Seriously, there’s always live music, trivia, food trucks—sometimes all at once. The calendar stays stacked and folks come ready to eat, drink, and laugh like they’ve just seen their high school crush across the bar.
The events aren’t just for beer snobs or people who can taste the difference between hops and…whatever else goes in beer. There’s an all-are-welcome vibe, from families with kids running around to couples on cute dates. I’ve dragged my whole gang there, and everyone found something to rave about (usually the music or the soft pretzels, if I’m honest). There’s always something surprising—just check the schedule before you go so you don’t miss one of the local band nights or seasonal tastings.
Beer Selection
Let’s talk beer. Because let’s be real, you came to drink, not just to chit-chat. Catawba’s beer selection is all over the map but in the best way. You’ll spot the “Peach of Mind” wheat ale sitting right next to their bold “Farmer Ted’s Cream Ale”—and then, oh hello, moonshine-inspired catawba blends.
But you know what steals my heart? The pink catawba. If you close your eyes, it pretty much screams festival season and backyard parties. Juicy, refreshing, just enough bite. And don’t even get me started on their rotating saisons or fruited sours. If you’re looking to build a mixed six-pack for a weekend gathering, you’ll have options—way more fun than playing beer fridge roulette, don’t you think?
Catawba Brewing Community Engagement
Now, here’s something I don’t see at every brewery—Catawba’s crazy focus on community. They host charity events, fundraisers, local market pop-ups…the whole shebang. It just feels good knowing your fun night out might actually support a cause or a local artist. I once stumbled into a “Paint & Pour” event, left with a wonky masterpiece, and memories for days.
Even the staff seems like they’ve got hometown pride oozing from their pores. You’ll hear wild stories from regulars and bartenders—don’t be shy to ask for their favorite recommendations or a behind-the-scenes brew tour. It’s genuinely the friendliest spot to try new things and maybe, just maybe, make a few new friends if you hang around long enough.
Serving Suggestions
Alright, so you want to know how people usually serve up these drinks? I got you. Only going to drop a handful of tips here, but seriously, don’t overthink it:
- Keep the pink catawba on ice. Trust me, colder is better.
- Try adding a slice of lemon or orange for an extra fresh pop.
- Catawba blends make killer shandies—half beer, half lemonade.
Experiment a little…Catawba’s made for that. If you mess up a drink, just laugh it off and try again.
Common Questions
Q: Can I find Catawba drinks outside of North Carolina?
A: Yup, some wines and beers ship! Check specialty shops or online for the catawba grape stuff.
Q: Is catawba sweet or dry?
A: It hits right in the middle. Not too sweet and not super dry.
Q: What food goes best with a catawba drink?
A: Personally, I love it with BBQ chicken or a spicy salsa dip. It’s super versatile.
Q: Can I use catawba in cocktails?
A: Definitely. Mix with a bit of gin and tonic, or a splash in some sangria. Play around!
Ready for a Sip? Try Something Unexpected
So, bottom line: don’t scoff at a quirky catawba drink just because it isn’t what you’re used to. Between friendly faces, a wild lineup of beers, and community love, it’s about having a good time and maybe finding your new favorite sip. If my story hasn’t convinced you, grab a bottle of Johnson Estate Pink Catawba and see what the fuss is about for yourself. Or stop by Catawba Brewing to get the full whoa-this-is-good experience. Feeling local pride? Check out the folks leading the way at Eat, Drink, and Be Local | N.C. Cooperative Extension. I’ll be over here—waiting for your first impression, and maybe stealing a sip of your drink (unless you beat me to it). Cheers!
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Catawba Drink Experience
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Discover the unique flavors of catawba drinks, a refreshing beverage made from catawba grapes, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- Catawba grape beverage
- Slices of lemon or orange
Instructions
- Chill the pink catawba drink on ice.
- Add a slice of lemon or orange for extra freshness.
- For a refreshing shandy, mix equal parts catawba drink and lemonade.
Notes
Experiment with flavors and enjoy your drinks; laughter is part of the fun!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: catawba drink, refreshing beverage, summer drinks, party drinks, community brewing
