Highland Brewing’s Cold Mountain Winter Ale: Asheville’s Most Iconic Seasonal Release

Feels

When the temperatures drop in Western North Carolina, one thing is certain: Cold Mountain Season has arrived. Since its debut in 1996, Highland Brewing’s Cold Mountain Winter Ale has grown from a small-batch seasonal into a regional phenomenon, drawing thousands of beer lovers to Asheville each year. For locals and visitors alike, this spiced winter ale isn’t just a beer—it’s a tradition. 

A Cult Classic Since 1996 

Few beers in the Southeast carry the same reputation as Cold Mountain. Brewed by Highland Brewing Company, Asheville’s original craft brewery, this winter release has developed a cult-like following over nearly three decades. 

What started as a limited seasonal offering has evolved into one of the most anticipated beer releases in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. Fans mark their calendars months in advance, eager for that first sip of the year. 

Flavor Profile: A Winter Warmer Worth the Hype 

Cold Mountain delivers a balanced, warming experience that perfectly captures the holiday spirit: 

  • ABV: 5.9% 
  • IBU: 28 
  • Hops: Cascade & Mount Hood 
  • Grist: 2-row, Pilsen, Vienna, Chocolate, Wheat, Caramel 40, Caramel 60 
Tasting Notes 

Expect a layered, comforting flavor profile with: 

  • Smooth vanilla sweetness 
  • Toasty hazelnut richness 
  • Subtle dark fruit character 
  • A touch of cinnamon spice 

The result? A spiced winter ale that’s rich but highly drinkable, striking the perfect balance between malty warmth and seasonal spice. 

The Cold Mountain Release: Asheville’s Biggest Beer Party 

Cold Mountain isn’t just a beer—it’s the centerpiece of Highland Brewing’s biggest event of the year. 

Each November, thousands gather at the brewery for the Cold Mountain Release Party, a multi-day celebration that signals the start of the holiday season in Asheville. 

What to Expect 
  • Lines of eager fans waiting for their first pour 
  • Limited pours of Cold Mountain and small batch Cold Mountain varieties 
  • Live music from Asheville and top regional bands 
  • A rotating lineup of food trucks 

It’s equal parts beer festival, concert and community gathering. The vibe is unmistakably Asheville: laid-back, lively, and built around great craft beer. 

Why Cold Mountain Matters 

For many, Cold Mountain is “the kick-off to the holiday season.” It’s a marker of time—something that signals the shift into colder weather, shorter days and holiday gatherings. 

A Community Tradition 

What sets Cold Mountain apart is its connection to the Asheville community. This isn’t just a product launch—it’s a shared experience. Generations of beer fans have made the annual release part of their winter ritual. Year after year, Cold Mountain has been voted the the No. 1 WNC Beer Event in the Mountain XPress annual Best of WNC contest. 

Limited Availability Fuels the Hype 

Cold Mountain is a seasonal release with limited production, which only adds to its appeal. Once it’s gone, fans have to wait another year—making every six-pack or draft pour feel special. 

Variations and Fan Favorites 

While the original Cold Mountain remains the star, each year, Highland releases limited variations to keep things fresh: Chocolate Hazelnut, Chai, Spruce Tip and Super Spice Cold Mountain have been fan favorites in the past. These spin-offs often sell out quickly, becoming collectibles for dedicated fans. 

Visiting Highland Brewing During Cold Mountain Season 

If you’re in Asheville in November, visiting Highland during Cold Mountain Weekend is a must. 

Tips for Attendees 

  • Arrive early if you want first pours of on-site only spin-offs 
  • Dress for the weather—this is a late-fall outdoor celebration 
  • Plan to stay a while: music, food and beer are spread across multiple days 
  • Bring friends—this is a social event at its core 
The Legacy of Cold Mountain 

Nearly 30 years after its first batch, Cold Mountain continues to define winter beer culture in the Southeast. It represents: 

  • The growth of Asheville as a craft beer destination 
  • Highland Brewing’s legacy as a pioneer in North Carolina craft brewing 
  • The power of a seasonal release to build loyalty, tradition and excitement 
Final Pour 

Highland Brewing’s Cold Mountain Winter Ale is more than a seasonal—it’s a cultural moment in a glass. With its signature blend of spice and malt, its long-standing history and its electric release weekend, it remains one of the most beloved winter beers in the region. 

Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, one thing is clear: Cold Mountain isn’t just brewed for the holidays—it starts them. 

 

 

 

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