McConnell Golf joins forces with local brewery and California vineyard
McConnell Golf strives to bring its members new and exciting experiences throughout all sectors of the club. Its latest bounty stems from partnerships with Highland Brewing Company and Juslyn Vineyards.
It’s a warm, sunny day. After a round of golf, you head to the clubhouse and reach for an ice-cold beer from your beloved bartender. They might as well have a halo. And that first sip of brew? Ah, pure joy.
At a few different times in recent history McConnell Golf sought to put its name “on tap,” but only this year found its perfect pairing in Highland Brewing Company.
Highland was founded in Asheville, NC, by Oscar Wong in 1994. Pioneers of their trade, you may be familiar with Gaelic Ale, which was Asheville’s very first craft beer. Their rich history aligns well with another Asheville mainstay, the historic Country Club of Asheville, which is where the partnership took shape.
McConnell Golf’s very own Pin High Pilsner has quickly become Head Brewer Jamie Rowe’s go-to after a day on the course. At 5.5% ABV, it features traditional German hops like Hallertau Blanc, Saphir, and Perle. Its nuanced floral aroma and flavor balance the clean pilsner malt body. Cold fermented with lager yeast for a crisp, dry finish, this beer is simply a hole in one.
Suitably, the first tap was installed at CC of Asheville in May; however the brew is making its way eastward and will be available at all McConnell Golf properties to enjoy this summer.
For those inclined to reach for wine after a long day a work, head to the club for a meal and look for McConnell Golf’s exclusive vintage. Hailing from the wine capital of America, Napa Valley’s Juslyn Vineyards has again delivered a delectable Cabernet Sauvignon and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc.
Wine enthusiasts have found thriving communities at McConnell properties and with themed events and clubs such as Grape Nuts, the interest in wine continues to flourish.
A recent Wine and Tapas event at Sedgefield Country Club featured the new wines. I spoke with Director of Dining Services Maya Panayotova on why the Juslyn wines have become so popular.
“People love wines they can relate to a place, experience or memory and that is our everyday goal at Sedgefield – to create memories for our members and their families and friends,” she explained.
At the event, members sampled the new wines with expertly paired tapas featuring: arugula, artichoke, asparagus flatbread with a ricotta base, chives and basil, finished with lemon oil; crispy duck wontons; shredded braised short ribs with pan seared gnocchi and a tomato ragout; and an assortment of cheeses.
Next time you’re at the club, try something new – and ask your server for pairing suggestions!