Discover the story behind Hillman Beer’s award-winning English-style bitter, a GABF Gold Medal winner crafted with precision by the Hillman family in their Asheville and Old Fort breweries.
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Inside Hillman Beer’s Great American Beer Festival Gold Medal ESB

In the heart of North Carolina’s thriving craft beer scene, one family-owned brewery has quietly perfected the art of the English-style bitter. Hillman Beer’s ESB (Extra Special Bitter) stands as a testament to their brewing philosophy: quality over trends, tradition with a personal touch. This isn’t just any beer – it’s a GABF Gold Medal winner that captures the essence of what makes Hillman special. Let’s explore the story, craftsmanship, and distinctive character of this celebrated flagship brew that’s become a cornerstone of their welcoming pub-style breweries in Asheville and Old Fort.

The Evolution of a Champion

The journey of Hillman’s ESB began much like the brewery itself – as a passion project born from family gatherings and shared brewing sessions. What started in Brad Hillman’s Brooklyn apartment in 2006 and later in the family garage in Asheville evolved into one of the Southeast’s most respected interpretations of this classic British style.

The ESB’s path to gold wasn’t overnight. It first caught national attention with a GABF Silver Medal in 2018, proving the Hillman family was onto something special. When it claimed Gold in 2019, it cemented what locals already knew – this small family operation was producing world-class beer without fanfare or pretension. This recognition didn’t change their approach; instead, it validated their commitment to brewing beers they truly love rather than chasing fleeting industry trends.

Behind the Brew: Crafting the Perfect ESB

What makes Hillman’s ESB stand out in a crowded craft beer landscape? It starts with a deep respect for the tradition of English bitters, combined with the family’s hands-on approach to every aspect of production.

The beer features a carefully selected malt bill that provides its characteristic amber hue and biscuity backbone. English-variety hops deliver subtle earthy and floral notes that balance perfectly against the malt sweetness. The result is remarkably balanced – neither overly bitter nor cloying, with a complexity that reveals itself with each sip.

True to the ESB style, Hillman’s version offers a moderate alcohol content that makes it an ideal session beer for extended gatherings with friends and family. The moderate carbonation and smooth mouthfeel create a drinking experience that’s both satisfying and refreshing – perfect for their pub-style environment where conversation and connection take priority.

Flavor Profile: A Taste of Tradition with Hillman Character

When you order a pint of Hillman’s ESB, you’re greeted with a beautiful copper-amber beer topped with a creamy, persistent head. The aroma offers hints of toasted bread, light caramel, and subtle earthy hop notes that invite you in without overwhelming the senses.

The first sip delivers on this promise with a perfect harmony of malt sweetness and hop bitterness. Notes of biscuit, toffee, and dried fruit dance with herbal, floral hop character. What sets this ESB apart is its remarkable balance – no single element dominates, creating a beer that’s complex enough for the connoisseur yet approachable for casual drinkers.

The finish is clean with a pleasant lingering bitterness that refreshes the palate and invites another sip. It’s this drinkability combined with depth of flavor that makes it both an award winner and a customer favorite.

Beyond the Medal: What Makes This ESB Special

While industry accolades matter, what truly defines Hillman’s ESB is how it embodies the brewery’s core values. This beer represents their commitment to quality without pretension – a flagship that showcases technical excellence while remaining approachable and enjoyable.

The ESB serves as a perfect introduction to the Hillman beer experience. It pairs wonderfully with their comfort food menu items like grass-fed beef patty melts or buffalo chicken wraps, creating the complete pub experience they’ve worked to cultivate.

Perhaps most importantly, this beer tells the Hillman family story in liquid form. Each carefully crafted pint connects drinkers to their journey from homebrewing hobbyists to award-winning professionals, all while maintaining the warmth and authenticity that defines their brand.

Experience the Gold Standard

Ready to taste what makes Hillman’s ESB worthy of gold? Visit either of their welcoming locations in Asheville or Old Fort and pull up a seat at the bar. You might even be served by one of the Hillman family members who had a hand in creating this celebrated beer.

Come be part of our family as you discover why tradition, quality, and community create beer worth celebrating. We’ve saved a seat for you at Hillman Beer – where every pint tells our story and invites you to be part of it.