Explore lush wineries and bubbling breweries in the gorgeous Palmetto State
Capital City/Lake Murray Country, South Carolina—JULY 2020—Say “cheers” and delight in the suds, varietals and spirits of Capital City/Lake Murray Country, South Carolina. This beautiful region is nestled in the central part of the Palmetto State with easy access from I-77, I-20 and I-26, where handcrafted beverages abound. Head down the Brewery Trail or take in the tranquil sights complementing robust tastes from an area winery and distillery. With safety measures in place, experience the flavors that make this region so special and ease into a Southern state of mind.
Enoree River Winery in Newberry
Indulge in locally made wines at Enoree River Winery. Located just 30 minutes north of Columbia in Newberry, this intimate venue comes with stunning vineyard views. Delight the palate with delicious, hand-crafted and seasonal wines like the Sweet Tipsy Rose, Amber Daze and Curiously White. Hungry? Pair preferred Enoree selections with available fresh meats and cheeses. Relax while sipping and strolling through the lavish vineyards with a loved one.
Hollow Creek Distillery
Enveloped by old oak trees in Leesville, South Carolina, find the Hollow Creek Distillery, where their bright red barn overlooks the sparkling waters of Lake Murray. From planted seed to sealed bottle, this is a family affair. Enjoy small batch, handcrafted moonshines while perusing this timeless property. Try the High Cotton Bourbon, known for its well-balanced flavor with a smooth finish. Or give the senses a jolt with a taste of White Hot, a pure cinnamon whiskey with zero artificial ingredients. There are also moonshines for everyone, with flavors like Sea Salt and Caramel, Carolina Honey and Apple Pie. Take a tour, sip samples, buy a bottle and enjoy the natural scenery.
River Rat Brewery
Now, head down the Brewery Trail. First stop—River Rat Brewery. Named after the three merging rivers that flow through the state’s Capital City of Columbia, River Rat Brewery is known for its complex flavors and fun vibes. With a a wide variety of suds, like the Hazelnut Brown Ale, Coffee Double IPA and Raspberry Lemon Wheat, it’s easy to see why River Rat Brewery was named the “Top Brewery in South Carolina” by the New York International Beer Competition. The homemade beverages take center stage and are complemented by scrumptious pub-style eats. Try the nachos with pulled pork, freshly baked pretzels, truffle fries or wings. Kick back on the outside deck, enjoy the warm Carolina breeze and the peace that comes with contact-less ordering.
Columbia Craft
Sit and sip Columbia Craft’s famously hopped beers. Consistency is the mission of this local brewing company and that’s exactly what patrons find when sampling the dozens of homemade beers on tap. Try their delicious flagship offerings—Famously Hop IPA, Columbia Craft Lager, Pulaski Porter Coco Milk and the Carolinian Blonde Ale. Then ease into Columbia Craft’s large selection of sour ales like the Dragon Fruit Mango, Watermelon Sour and the Fine Apple, in addition to a variety of other lagers, porters and New England-style ales. There are outdoor tables on the front lawn providing space to clink pints with a small group of friends. The indoor taproom will remain at 50% capacity, with social distancing guidelines in place so guests can indulge worry-free. Columbia Craft also brews the DAM beer which is sold at The DAM House, a fun local favorite complete with disc golf, corn hole and a fire pit overlooking the beautiful Lake Murray Dam.
Steel Hands Brewery
With 14 varieties on tap, Steel Hands Brewery in Cayce is a must. This hip spot mixes industrial and modern elements, providing the perfect atmosphere to sip and stay awhile. Guests feel at ease with new sanitizing stations around the venue and various protection measures in place. First, start with one of the year-round beers. These include the Coffee Lager, Tropical IPA and Pecan Brown Ale. Next, round it out with seasonal suds on tap—summer flavors include: Peach Iced Tea Ale, Habanero Agave Tequila Lager and the Maple Brown Sugar Quad. Beer isn’t the only thing to tickle taste buds, order the Braised Brisket Sandwich, Fish and Chips or the Chicken Philly. And don’t miss out on the Duck Fat Fries! These hand-cut potatoes are seasoned, tossed in duck fat and served with Steel Hands Black Pepper Pilsner Ketchup.
Craft & Draft
Craft & Draft is Columbia’s premier craft beer store and growler shop featuring two locations, one in Columbia and one in nearby Irmo. Owned by two University of South Carolina engineering grads, this gem is locally owned and a dream come true. Craft & Draft features premier craft beers from all over the country as well as local Carolina favorites. Sample a beer or drink a few pints from one of the 12 taps. Fill up growlers, or take home a variety of beers featured in the inventory of six-packs. Don’t leave with an empty stomach! Quell hunger pangs with a Pawleys Island Pretzel, charcuterie board or one of Craft & Draft’s delicious fresh sandwiches.
Travelers can feel certain their trip to Capital City/Lake Murray Country will brim with flavor, gorgeous sights and much-deserved relaxation.