This image is the cover for the book East Tennessee Beer, American Palate

East Tennessee Beer, American Palate

Brewing history in East Tennessee is a roller coaster ride. In 1879, Knoxville's twenty-five saloons allegedly poured an estimated five thousand drinks per day. The drinks slowed for nearly half a century during Prohibition. Afterward, the beer scene made a slow resurgence. With modern events like Tennessee Oktoberfest, Thirsty Orange Brew Extravaganza and Brewer's Jam, East Tennessee revels as the unequivocal leader of the state's craft beer industry. Growth continues with new breweries like Sleepy Owl Brewery, Alliance Brewing Company and Crafty Bastard Brewery. Beer writers Aaron Carson and Tony Casey divulge fermented accounts of this long tradition and renaissance.

Aaron Carson, Tony Casey

Aaron Carson is a member of the North American Guild of Beer Writers and the United States Association of Cider Makers. He is the executive director for Superfly Fabulous Events, founder of Tri-Cities Craft Beer Week and Tennessee Championship of Beers. Aaron co-founded the Brewly Noted Beer Trail and started the Tri-Cities Pro Brewers Guild. He holds a BBA from East Tennessee State University and his MBA and MS from Temple University.

Tony Casey is a member of the North American Guild of Beer Writers. He is also a press staff writer for the Johnson City Press, where he covers the city's recreational events in addition to general stories. He was a copy editor for Bristol Herald Courier and a content editor for WETS-FM at East Tennessee State University. Tony also worked as a freelance writer for the Press-Republican in upstate New York. Tony received his BA in magazine journalism from State University of New York at Plattsburgh.

The History Press