Big Bear Brewing Co.
Big Bear Brewing Co. opened its doors in July of 1997. Our concept was based on serving fresh brewed beer with quality and creative food in a warm and friendly atmosphere. When we opened, brewpubs were expanding throughout the country. Since then, the brewpub concept has slowed, but not Big Bear. We like to think of our very loyal guests as family, and after 20 years that family continues to grow. We have a strong foundation in this community and are very proud of that achievement. Behind the scenes of any successful restaurant is a devoted staff… we have many who have been with us since the beginning. Consistency breeds success and for that we thank our crew.
Author: Caroline Porsiel
Caroline Porsiel is a master distiller and liqueurist based in East Ellijay, Georgia. She founded House of Applejay, a fine spirits and liqueur distillery, in 2022 with her mother, Sabine, crafting award-winning products like Applejay from Ellijay, Mt. Frozen Knob Vodka, and Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur. The distillery won a 2024 Best of Georgia Award and a 2025 Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur. As a founding member of the AMBRU Campaign, launched in 2020, Porsiel advocates for the global recognition of American Brandy and Rum. She continues to drive innovation in the craft spirits industry from her active distillery in the heart of Georgia’s apple country.
