Over 16,000 people from 46 countries cast votes between March 18 and May 7 for their favorite Beer City USA.  In the end Portland, Oregon and Asheville, North Carolina gathered the most votes.

Read the full results here

Already positioned as a respected player in the microbrewing industry, North Carolina will soon have one more reason to boast; Mother Earth Brewing Company.  The brewery is owned by businessmen Stephen Hill and Trent Mooring, and kicked off its official entry into the business of beer on Monday, February 16th with a well attended press conference. “Our shared hobby planted the seed for Mother Earth Brewing Company, and the desire to see our hometown grow and attract new folks and new businesses without losing that neighborhood feeling led us to locate the brewery in downtown Kinston, NC”  Trent said during the ceremony.

True to its name, Mother Earth Brewing Company will not only employ a variety of eco-friendly practices, but it will also proudly restore one of the few remaining vacant buildings on a street that is becoming known for its diverse restaurants and unique retail shops.   The remarkable $1.5 million dollar renovation project will include a 20 barrel brewery, a bottling facility and Mother Earth’s corporate offices. Future plans include a tap room and brewery tours.

In late summer or early fall, Trent, Stephen and Head Brewer, Josh D. Brewer, plan to pour their first glass of beer. The four planned staple beers are Munich Dunkel, American IPA (India Pale Ale), Belgian Wit and Kolsch.  Seasonal brews, and oak aged beers will round out Mother Earth’s offerings.  Look for Mother Earth’s first-class beer to be distributed statewide in groceries, restaurants and bars.