“We picked Bryson City because of our love of the outdoors, our beautiful mountain views, the people we’ve become friends with, and the community that has taken us in,” said Mountain Layers co-owner Mark Pettit. 

Originally from Minnesota, Mark and his wife, Kim, have been coming to Swain County for over 15 years. Add in a love for craft beer and Mark’s early retirement, and you have the perfect storm of ingredients to start a brewery in Bryson City. The cozy two-story building houses a taproom, tasting room, and a rooftop patio overlooking the Tuckasegee River.

“We couldn’t be happier or more excited to be open after two years of renovation and build-out of our new brewery,” Mark said. “It’s surreal to be open and see people enjoying themselves, relaxing at our brewery, enjoying each other’s company and drinking one of our craft beers. It’s wonderful to see people returning with their friends to share the experience, even though we’ve only been open a very short time.”

And at the helm of the business is brewmaster Noah McIntee, who brings an extensive knowledge of craft beer to the table. Formerly of Lazy Hiker Brewing in Franklin, McIntee was also previously the director of brewing operations at Pearl Street Grill & Brewery and Pan American Grill & Brewery in Buffalo, New York. 

“The thrill of a startup is that it begins with neither equipment nor procedures, yet at the end there is a fully functioning brewhouse and taproom,” McIntee said. “The beer has all been well received and represents a broad swath of craft beer styles and traditions. We’re in no hurry to lock down flagship brands, so I look forward to many months of continually impressing our patrons with their new favorite beer.”

www.mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.