BY JENNIFER AXNESS

A decade ago, Holly Springs’ Bombshell Beer Company opened its doors in a community eager to embrace the fledgling craft brewery. 

The culmination of a dream shared by three passionate home brewers—Ellen Joyner, Michelle Miniutti and Jackie Hudspeth—the brewery has received an array of accolades, including recognition as one of the 10 best women-led breweries or distilleries in the world in 2020 from USA Today and Business of the Year in 2021 by the Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce. 

Everyone is warmly welcomed at this family-friendly, dog-friendly brewery where quality, innovation and inclusivity underscore everything about the experience. Featuring a rotating selection of perennial classics, seasonal specialties and experimental brews, Bombshell is where beer enthusiasts gather to share their love for top-tier beer and where scheduled events such as live music gigs, weekly runs organized by the Bombshell Run Club and special food truck evenings unite the community and foster connections among patrons. 

Bombshell’s 1,400-square-foot tasting room and outdoor beer garden provide guests with a relaxing setting to enjoy offerings that include beers, ciders, seltzers, wines and non-alcoholic beverages.

Indulge in a Head Over Hops IPA or Hipster Handshake Wheat Ale year-round, or explore the brewery’s ever-changing assortment of specialty beers. This summer, these include the Blazin’ Session IPA (Silver Medal winner, 2023 Craft Beer Awards) and Dirty Secret Coconut Stout. Or invigorate your taste buds with a seasonal cider with enticing names such as the Tropical Pineapple or Cherry Poppins. 

With a menu continually evolving and refreshed, there’s always something new to discover at Bombshell.

Stop by on a summer evening, savor your brew and raise your glass to Ellen, Michelle and Jackie. Here’s to a decade of success!  

Check out more from around the Western Wake at 5westmag.com