We often savor the diverse flavors of craft beers, appreciating the artistry of talented brewers. But how often do we pause to consider the dedication and hard work that goes into each pint, from grain to glass?
At rockscapes.net, we’re diving deep into the world of craft beer to explore the stories behind the brews and the people who make them. In this edition of our brewery employee series, we had the pleasure of speaking with Rocky Justice, the Brewing Manager at Blowing Rock Brewing Company. Rocky’s passion for brewing is as bold as her name, and her insights offer a fascinating glimpse into the craft beer industry.
From Backyard Hops to Brewery Ranks: Rocky’s Craft Beer Origin Story
Your Name: Rocky Justice
Instagram: @moonshinemartini
Title at Blowing Rock Brewing Company: Brewing Manager
Location: Boone, NC – nestled in the High Country of North Carolina
Rocky’s journey into the world of craft beer began unconventionally – in her own backyard. “I’ve always had a big interest in beer,” Rocky explains, “starting from my dad’s homebrewing hobby when I was young. We even grew Cascade and Centennial hops right in our backyard.” This early exposure to the brewing process sparked a lasting curiosity that would eventually blossom into a career.
However, it wasn’t until Rocky started working at the Blowing Rock Ale House, the restaurant associated with Blowing Rock Brewing Company, that her passion truly ignited. “When I started working in the restaurant and bar at Blowing Rock Ale House, I stumbled into my passion,” she recalls. Her enthusiasm and aptitude were quickly recognized, and within a mere three months of pouring pints behind the bar, Rocky transitioned to the brewery side as a brewing assistant. “I became the brewing assistant within 3 months of starting behind the bar, and I’ve been here ever since!”
Rocky Justice, Brewing Manager at Blowing Rock Brewing Company, pictured inside the brewery, highlighting her role in the craft beer production process.
Rocky’s impact on Blowing Rock Brewing Company is undeniable. “I’ve been behind a ton of the recipes that we have gone on to make full-time core beers, and I’ve really been working to bring new designs, vibrancy, and styles into the brand,” she shares. Her creative input and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the brewery’s diverse and innovative beer portfolio.
The Gateway Beer: From Light Lagers to Craft Beer Exploration
Every craft beer enthusiast has a “gateway beer” – the brew that opened their eyes to the world beyond mass-produced lagers. For Rocky, that beer was Carolina Strawberry by Foothills Brewing. “I actually remember it too well: Carolina Strawberry by Foothills Brewing,” she laughs. This fruit-infused wheat beer marked a turning point in her beer journey. “I first tried it after I had started wanting something better than Blue Moon. Early on in my beer career, I really leaned into the lighter styles.”
However, Rocky’s palate has evolved significantly since those early days. “Now I look at things like, ‘Well, is it 7% ABV or nah?'” she jokes, indicating a preference for beers with more robust flavors and higher alcohol content. This evolution reflects a common trajectory among craft beer drinkers, moving from lighter, more approachable styles to exploring bolder and more complex brews.
Rocky’s Go-To Beer Styles: A Love for IPAs and Lagers
When asked about her preferred beer styles, Rocky reveals a fondness for both ends of the beer spectrum. “My go-to is a West Coast IPA or a German style lager — a helles, preferably,” she states. This preference showcases an appreciation for both hop-forward bitterness and clean, crisp malt profiles. West Coast IPAs are known for their assertive hop aromas and flavors, while German Helles lagers are celebrated for their delicate balance and refreshing drinkability.
A detailed view of Blowing Rock Brewing Company’s craft beer in a glass, highlighting the brewery’s commitment to quality and visual appeal.
Rocky’s adventurous spirit extends beyond these core styles. “If there’s nothing that clean on tap, I will go for an unfiltered Belgian or something hazy,” she adds, demonstrating a willingness to explore a wide range of beer flavors and brewing traditions.
For those looking to expand their beer horizons, Rocky offers a unique recommendation: “I’d recommend trying schwarzbier or other dark lagers, if ya see ‘em! They’re a little unique and rare for the south, but quite palatable and full of flavor.” Schwarzbier, a dark German lager, offers a compelling combination of roasted malt flavors and lager crispness, making it a surprisingly approachable and flavorful style.
No Beer Left Behind: Embracing the Diversity of Beer Styles
Unsurprisingly, given her open-minded approach to beer, Rocky finds it difficult to name a style she dislikes. “Is it weird to be like… “No”?” she laughs. While she admits a slight aversion to “a lot of pale beer styles that are low in ABV,” it’s primarily due to their perceived “blandness.” However, true to her adventurous nature, Rocky emphasizes her willingness to try and appreciate nearly any beer style. “However, I’ll try, and try to enjoy just about everything!”
Blowing Rock Brewing Company: A Tight-Knit Brewery Family
Rocky’s journey at Blowing Rock Brewing Company began in August 2017 in the taproom, before transitioning to the brewing team full-time in July 2018. Her dedication and growth within the company speak volumes about her passion and talent.
When asked what makes Blowing Rock Brewing Company stand out, Rocky highlights the brewery’s close-knit team and commitment to quality. “We are a really small team, doing a LOT to fulfill the needs of our customers, and trying to make it special and ours every step of the way. We are definitely a family,” she explains. This family atmosphere and dedication to craftsmanship are likely key ingredients in the brewery’s success and the quality of its beers.
Brewing Success: Rocky’s Favorite Creations
Choosing a favorite beer from her own creations is no easy task, but Rocky narrows it down to two standouts. “My Belgian Tripel is the answer I want to give…. However, I think my Helles wins my heart,” she reveals. Both of these styles showcase Rocky’s brewing versatility, from the complex and potent Belgian Tripel to the subtly nuanced and meticulously crafted Helles lager.
Rocky’s Beer Share Six-Pack: A Mix of Tradition and Trends
If given the opportunity to curate a beer share pack, Rocky’s selections reflect her diverse palate and appreciation for both classic and contemporary beers. Her mixed six-pack would include:
- Weihenstephaner Helles: “Because it’s the best Helles,” Rocky declares. This benchmark German Helles lager is renowned for its impeccable balance and drinkability.
- Sierra Nevada Pale Ale: “An absolute classic,” Rocky notes. This iconic American pale ale is a foundational beer in the craft beer movement, known for its balanced hop bitterness and citrusy aroma.
- Creature Comforts Tropicalia: “Because it’s delicious,” Rocky simply states. This popular IPA from Creature Comforts Brewing Co. is celebrated for its juicy hop flavors and tropical fruit notes.
- Burial Beer Co. Surf Wax IPA: “Another local treat,” Rocky mentions, highlighting a brewery from Asheville, NC. Burial Beer Co. is known for its creative and well-executed IPAs, and Surf Wax is a prime example.
- DSSOLVR beers (various): “Anything from DSSOLVR,” Rocky suggests, indicating a strong appreciation for this Asheville brewery’s experimental and innovative beers. DSSOLVR is known for pushing boundaries and creating unique and flavorful brews across various styles.
- Blowing Rock Brewing Company Mystery Train Imperial Stout: “Of course, I have to include something from us!” Rocky concludes, showcasing her pride in her own brewery’s offerings. Mystery Train Imperial Stout is a robust and flavorful stout, representing the quality and craftsmanship at Blowing Rock Brewing Company.
Rocky’s beer selections offer a diverse and compelling mix, showcasing her appreciation for classic styles, regional favorites, and innovative breweries. Her insights into the craft beer world, and her dedication to Blowing Rock Brewing Company, make her a true asset to the industry and a fascinating voice for craft beer enthusiasts. Next time you raise a glass of your favorite brew, remember the passion and hard work of brewers like Rocky Justice who make it all possible.
