Business Details
16 Years
experience
Craft Brewery in Banner Elk, NC
Founded in 2010, Kettell Beerworks has been a cornerstone of Avery County's craft beer scene. As the sole brewery in the region, we combine traditional brewing techniques with modern innovation to create high-quality beers that reflect the character of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Our facility, located at 3,715 feet elevation, utilizes pristine mountain water to craft a diverse lineup of ales and lagers across three distinct tiers. Since acquiring the brewery in 2024, owners Joe and Susan Royall have maintained our commitment to family-friendly hospitality while expanding our community-focused vision.Our taproom features a 20-barrel steam-driven system visible through large windows, offering guests an immersive view of the brewing process. We provide guided brewhouse tours and maintain a welcoming atmosphere with games like shuffleboard and pinball. Our kitchen complements our beers with artisanal food pairings including wood-fired pizzas and house-made pretzels. With over a decade of experience, we continue to innovate through seasonal releases while maintaining our core lineup of award-winning brews.
Services
Craft Beer Production
Brewery Tours
Food Pairings
Seasonal Releases
Wine Selection
Taproom Events
Beer Growler Sales
Local Distribution
Wedding Catering
Private Tours
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We brew with pristine mountain water at 3,715 feet elevation
- Our 20-barrel steam system offers transparent brewing demonstrations
- Family-friendly taproom with games and pet-friendly outdoor space
- Three-tiered beer lineup balancing approachability and complexity
- Guided brewhouse tours available for beer enthusiasts
Services
Craft Beer Production
We craft premium beers using mountain water and quality ingredients. Our 20-barrel steam system produces diverse styles across three tiers. Each beer emphasizes drinkability while showcasing regional character through unique flavor profiles.
Brewery Tours
Guided tours provide behind-the-scenes access to our brewing process. Guests learn about our 3,715-foot elevation advantages and steam-driven system. The experience includes sensory education about ingredient selection and fermentation science.
Food Pairings
Our kitchen creates complementary food options for beer tasting. Wood-fired pizzas feature house-made dough and local ingredients. Appetizers like pretzels and wings use traditional recipes designed to enhance specific beer flavor profiles.
Seasonal Releases
We develop special beers for different seasons using regional ingredients. Our Oktoberfest Marzen and Alpine Rush Winter Ale demonstrate seasonal adaptation. Limited batches allow experimentation with unique flavor combinations and brewing techniques.
Wine Selection
We offer curated wine options alongside craft beers. The selection includes both Old World and New World varietals. Wine service provides alternative tasting experiences for guests preferring different flavor profiles.
People
Joe Royall
Co-Owner
Co-owner Joe Royall brings decades of mountain living experience to Kettell Beerworks. After years visiting the region, he and Susan purchased the brewery in 2024 to create a family-centered community hub.
Susan Royall
Co-Owner
Co-owner Susan Royall combines hospitality expertise with local knowledge. Her vision focuses on creating welcoming experiences that reflect Avery County's unique mountain culture through craft beer and community engagement.
Questions
What beers do you offer?
We offer 12 rotating taps including our core lineup: German Kolsch, Munich Lager, American Amber, Oatmeal Stout, and Imperial IPA, plus seasonal specialties.
Is the brewery family-friendly?
Yes! We welcome families with games like shuffleboard and pinball. Pets are allowed on our front porch, and our menu includes kid-friendly options.
Are brewery tours available?
Yes, we offer guided tours of our 20-barrel steam-driven brewhouse. Tours include explanations of our brewing process and ingredient selection.
What food options exist?
Our kitchen serves wood-fired pizzas, wings, pretzels, and appetizers designed to pair with our beers. All menu items use fresh, quality ingredients.
What are taproom hours?
We're open Wednesday-Thursday 12-8pm, Friday-Saturday 12-9pm, and Sunday 12-8pm. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Can I buy beer to-go?
Yes, we offer growler fills and packaged beer sales. Check our website for current availability of our different beer styles.
Reviews (4)
Allan
Jan 13, 2022
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Great little hole in the wall brewery, a must if you are going to be in or near Banner Elk. Spectacular beer, try the Velvet Panda Oatmeal Stout on a cold winter day
Andrew Bryan
Dec 24, 2021
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Really awesome place with good beer and some of our favorite pizza we have had. The whole place is really laid back and the bartender was super friendly. Definitely the kind of place that is enjoyable to hang out at.
Kiel Johnson
Dec 04, 2021
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Smaller micro brewery with a nice selection of beer. The beer was great food was ok. I would definitely come back if in the area again.
Angela Hunter
Jun 15, 2021
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Small but cute little place! My husband and I enjoyed their beer selection along with a made to order pizza! I highly recommend the thin crust.
