Happy Holidays from Bird’s Nest at Blackbird Brewery!
As the holiday season settles in, we’re filled with gratitude for the warmth and joy it brings. This time of year invites us to gather with friends and family, sharing festive cocktails and delicious food, and creating lasting memories. The spirit of togetherness is what makes the season truly special, and we feel fortunate to celebrate it with our beloved community.
Whether you’re enjoying a holiday drink with loved ones or making new memories with us, we’re honored to be a part of your celebrations. Join us at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird this season to savor a cocktail, relax in good company, and toast to the moments that bring us all closer together. Cheers to warmth, laughter, and a season filled with joy.
Crafting Spirits, Building Community: The Journey of Cultivated Cocktails
Nestled in the heart of Asheville, North Carolina, Cultivated Cocktails, our featured distillery stands as a beacon of craftsmanship and innovation in the region’s vibrant craft spirits scene. In 2012, the distillery introduced its first spirit, Hazel 63 Rum. Aged on French and American oak, this award-winning rum blends the depth of whiskey with rum’s smoothness, making it ideal for sipping or creating premium cocktails. Since then, Cultivated Cocktails has expanded its portfolio to include nine unique spirits, including Hwy 9 Gin, Asheville Vodka, and Asheville Coffee Liqueur. Each spirit is crafted with premium ingredients, ensuring the highest quality and distinctive flavor profiles.
As Asheville’s first legal distillery since Prohibition, Cultivated Cocktails has built a stellar reputation for its small-batch creations. Guests can experience their craft spirits across three unique locations. In the heart of downtown Asheville, the Downtown Shop and Tasting Lounge offers an inviting space to enjoy an expertly crafted cocktail menu. Just a short drive away in East Asheville, the Distillery and Tavern combines the warmth of a neighborhood tavern with the creativity of signature spirits, offering live music, delicious food, and an ideal setting for gatherings. For those curious about the artistry behind the scenes, tours at the Original Production Facility are available by appointment, showcasing the meticulous process of small-batch distilling. Fans can also bring the magic home with take-home cocktail kits or a subscription to their exclusive cocktail club.
Rising Above Hurricane Helene
While Hurricane Helene brought devastation to Western North Carolina, leaving physical destruction and emotional scars, Cultivated Cocktails emerged as a pillar of resilience and hope. The storm caused significant losses across their locations, yet it became a humbling opportunity to connect with and support their community.
The Distillery and Tavern at 161 Charlotte Hwy had been open for just a year when, only a week after assuming restaurant operations, disaster struck. Hurricane Helene caused widespread destruction, cutting off power which threatened significant food inventory losses. Undeterred, the team turned adversity into action, preparing meals for the community and donating food to those in need. The space quickly transformed into a donation and distribution center, with staff working tirelessly to assist on-site. While the owners did their best to compensate staff for their efforts, they were deeply moved by employees who volunteered their time. This extraordinary response not only delivered crucial support to those affected but also strengthened community bonds. Today, the restaurant has reopened with a limited menu, standing as a testament to resilience and the strength of collective support.
Reopening the Downtown Shop and Tasting Lounge at 25 Page Ave in October marked a significant step forward in recovery efforts. However, reduced foot traffic in downtown Asheville has prompted adjustments, including scaling back operations to five days a week with a single staff member managing the bar. Despite these hurdles, the team remains hopeful and optimistic, looking forward to the return of both locals and tourists as the area continues to rebuild and thrive.
The Original Production Facility at 204 Charlotte Hwy faced a shutdown due to a lack of potable water. Even when water service returned, its quality wasn’t suitable for production, further delaying operations. The 70-day downtime created a bottleneck in inventory, leaving signature spirits like Hwy 9 Gin temporarily unavailable. The team is working tirelessly to recover and meet demand.
Rebuilding Together
As Western North Carolina embarks on the journey of recovery, Cultivated Cocktails remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the community. For those eager to contribute, Silverados Music Park continues to serve as a reliable hub for donations, ensuring aid reaches those who need it most.
The greatest need now is for tourists to return and for the rebuilding process to gain momentum. By visiting Cultivated Cocktails and other local businesses, you not only experience the vibrant spirit of this beloved region but also play a vital role in its revitalization. Together, we can help Western North Carolina rise stronger than ever.
Bird’s Nest at Blackbird’s Featured Cocktails:
Espresso Martini Flight: Available as full-size or 3/$24 flight options, featuring:
- Espresso Martini: Don Q Rum, Cultivated Cocktails’ Asheville Coffee Liqueur, Sunny Daze Cold Brew
- Autumn in Jalisco: Lunazul Blanco, Cultivated Cocktails’ Asheville Coffee Liqueur, Apple Cinnamon Syrup, Sunny Daze Cold Brew
- Rumple Minze Patty: Rumple Minze, Mozart Chocolate Cream Liqueur, Cultivated Cocktails’ Asheville Coffee Liqueur
- White Chocolate Macadamia Nut: Cathead Vodka, Mozart White Chocolate Cream Liqueur, Macadamia Orgeat, Sunny Daze Cold Brew
- Dirty Chai: Cathead Vodka, Cultivated Cocktails’ Asheville Coffee Liqueur, Masala Chai Syrup, Heavy Cream
- Salted Caramel Bourbon: Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, Cultivated Cocktails’ Asheville Coffee Liqueur, Almond Orgeat, Sunny Daze Cold Brew
Very Merry French 75: Spiced cranberry syrup, Cultivated Cocktails’ Hwy 9 Gin, lemon juice, and topped with Toso.
What in the Elfing Flip: Infused Drambuie, Appleton 12 Rum, heavy cream, honey, and an egg.
Jess’s Sparkling Bubbly Recommendations
As the holidays approach, what better way to celebrate than with a glass of bubbly? Whether you’re toasting with friends, enjoying a festive meal, or simply sipping by the fire, a great sparkling wine sets the tone for the season. Jess has handpicked a selection of sparkling wines that will elevate your holiday moments. From light, refreshing Proseccos to rich, complex champagnes, these sparkling gems will bring the sparkle to your celebrations.
- Luna Argenta Prosecco ($36): If you’re looking for a crisp, fresh, and dry option, Luna Argenta Prosecco is a fantastic choice. Harvested under the moonlight in Veneto, it pairs beautifully with seafood or light sweets (available by the glass).
- Toso Brut ($39): Perfect for sipping on its own or using in a French 75, Toso Brut from Argentina is well-balanced and delicious. Its versatility makes it an ideal companion for hors d’oeuvres and gin-based cocktails (available by the glass).
- Poggio Costa Rosé Brut ($40): A delightful combination of Pinot Nero, Glera, and Prosecco, Poggio Costa Rosé is crisp and bubbly at first, followed by wild berries, raspberry, and a hint of peach. It’s a refreshing and delicious choice for your holiday festivities (available in The Tap Room).
- Avinyó Cava Reserva Brut ($44): This Spanish sparkling wine is light, effervescent, and full of flavor. With tasting notes of pear, citrus, honey, and stone fruit, Avinyó Cava is perfect for enjoying with loved ones and sharing during festive gatherings.
- Laurent Perrier ($107): For those who seek the finest in champagne, Laurent Perrier offers a luxurious experience. With fresh flavors of red currant, stone fruit, and white flowers, this champagne will transport you to another level of celebration.
Upcoming Events
Silent Book Club
Join us at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird Brewery every 1st Wednesday of the month from 6:00-9:00 PM for Silent Book Club. Enjoy a quiet evening of reading in good company, relaxing with your favorite book and a drink. Please note: Silent Book Club will not be held in January due to the New Year holiday.
Roaring New Year’s at Bird’s Nest – December 31st, 6:00 PM – 12:30 AM
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at the Bird’s Nest at Blackbird Brewery with an elegant “Roaring New Year’s” party! Immerse yourself in the glamour of the 1920s as you enjoy unlimited bubbly, a gourmet buffet from Fishin’ Shrimp, and a lively night of dancing. Dress in your finest 1920s-inspired attire and join us for an unforgettable evening as we count down to 2025! Dinner will be served buffet-style, with a selection of hot and cold dishes including crab balls, shrimp cocktail, raw oysters, meatballs, green beans, seasoned potatoes, and dinner rolls. This will be a night to remember, celebrating new beginnings in true roaring fashion. Purchase your ticket here!
Bird’s Nest at Blackbird Hours Updates
Bird’s Nest at Blackbird is now open on Thursdays from 5-11 PM, with Friday and Saturday hours remaining 5 PM to midnight. Please note, we are hosting a private event on Thursday, Dec 12, but we are still open to guests from 8-10 PM that day.
See details above for our ticketed event featuring bottomless bubbles on New Year’s Eve!!!!
Holiday Events Rentals
The Bird’s Nest at Blackbird offers an elegant and cozy speakeasy atmosphere, perfect for hosting up to 60 guests with its plush velvet seating and chic bar. As the holiday season approaches, be sure to check out our rental page and reserve your date soon! It’s not too late to reserve Bird’s Nest at Blackbird for your holiday event. Email harmony@blackbirdbeer.com to reserve!