SUMMER BEERS YOU SHOULD BE SIPPING

The heat is on, the sun’s blazing, and summer vibes are in full swing. It's time to swap those heavy, boozy brews for something crisp, refreshing, and made for long days by the water. Whether you're chilling to your favorite playlist on the Intracoastal, hosting a beach picnic, or grilling with friends, these Cape Fear-crafted summer beers are our top picks to keep things cool and crushable. Cheers to sunshine!

Cape Fear Living Staff

Hi-Wire Brewing

Hi-Wire Lager

What Makes This Beer Special?

This authentic American lager is as approachable as it is delicious, offering a perfect balance of light Pilsner malt and German hops. Extensively lagered until the beer reaches peak maturity, this is your handcrafted option when only a refreshing, light beer will do. Hi-Wire Lager is the brewery's original beer and a bestseller at Hi-Wire's taprooms, and as a draft selection distributed to bars and restaurants across the region. What began as a local cult favorite has now made its mark on the international stage. This spring, 12 years after its inception, Hi-Wire Lager took home the silver medal in the International-Style Pilsener category at the 2025 World Beer Cup® - the most prestigious beer competition in the world.  See what the fuss is all about and grab a cold Hi-Wire Lager for backyard barbecues and beach-side sipping this summer.

Pairs Perfectly With?

Hi-Wire Lager is light, crisp, and incredibly versatile—it's the kind of beer that plays well at a backyard barbecue or a beachside snack shack. Smash burgers, grilled brats and hotdogs, or fish tacos pair nicely with this flagship favourite.

Song to Sip To?

"Roll with the Changes"–REO Speedwagon

Wrightsville Beach Brewery

Kolsch Krush

What Makes This Beer Special?

Brewed with sweet orange peel and a hint of spice (coriander, cardamom, grains of paradise), it's crisp, refreshing, and great for sipping in the great outdoors or on your back porch.

Pairs Perfectly With?

Seafood, Asian dishes, and summer salads.

Song to Sip To?

"Epistemology" by M. Ward is a great tune about falling in love and an excellent soundtrack for sitting outside.

Edward Teach Brewery

Spring Beer: "Teach's Peaches" Peach Wheat

What Makes This Beer Special?

This light-bodied brew, with a delightful malt character, is a refreshing twist on a classic. We've infused it with a whopping 80 lbs of peach and apricot puree, giving it a burst of fruity flavor that's simply irresistible. But what truly sets this beer apart is its uniquely tangy finish—a subtle tartness that adds a playful kick to every sip. Trust us, it's a taste experience that simply can't be replicated.

Pairs Perfectly With?

Pair this peach wheat beer with BBQ burgers, fresh shrimp, and tangy salad for a perfect summer meal. Opt for savory-sweet toppings on the burgers to harmonize with the beer's profile. Grilled shrimp with citrus or herbs match the beer's refreshing quality. Add pomegranate, blueberries, and goat cheese to your salad so the fruity notes can complement the rich BBQ flavors. The creamy goat cheese will balance the beer's effervescence in the salad, while pomegranate and blueberries add freshness and sweetness to the pairing.

Song to Sip To?

Otis Redding - “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay”