In late July, Athens, Georgia based Terrapin Beer Company announced they were selling a majority stake of the company to Tenth & Blake, the craft division of MillerCoors. Beer Street Journal reported at the time that John Cochran, co-founder of Terrapin would be the only employee departing.

We knew his story wouldn’t end there.

Cochran has 21 years in the brewing industry, and as far as we’re concerned, his love for the American beer industry is unsurpassed. So meet his new endeavor – UpCountry Brewing.

Current Asheville based Altamont Brewing has been sold to Cochran. He will assume the space and assets in the West Asheville area and change the name and brand identity to UpCountry Brewing. He will also be refitting the adjacent restaurant space formerly known as Nona Mia. Once the redesign is complete, the space will serve “Appalachian Eats.”

Having known Cochran for years, we can attest to his love of the burgeoning beer scene in Asheville. The city is a dreamland of opportunity when compared to Terrapin’s home state of Georgia with its restrictive, and at times unbalanced, approach towards breweries. John has been very vocal and active in Georgia beer politics over the past few years, so it’s no wonder he chose a state with a more favorable approach to the growing beer industry.

UpCountry Brewing’s staff includes owner John Cochran, Brewer Jordan Veale, General Manager James Mayfield, Assistant GM Nicole Flynn and Executive Chef Matt Kovitch.

UpCountry Brewing will make beers that are sessionable, thirst-quenching and easy drinking. Our customers are active folks who want to come in after a ride and enjoy a beer that cools them down, but doesn’t womp them with high alcohol content.” – James Mayfield, General Manager

UpCountry Brewing is located at 1042 Haywood Road, Asheville, North Carolina.

Interview with John Cochran to follow. Developing…