Four startups make up the first cadre of companies to become part of the Rocky Mount Mills Brewery Incubator.

Bull Durham Breer Company is among the four as it expands to meet customer demand.

The others are:

  • Planetary Elixirs
  • HopFly Brewing Company
  • BBD Brewing Company

Koi Pond Brewing and Tarboro Brewing Company West are already located at the Mills complex.

“The philosophy driving Rocky Mount Mills’ renaissance is all about celebrating entrepreneurs, craftsmen, hard workers and innovators,” says Michael Goodmon, vice president of real estate for Capitol Broadcasting, which operates Rocky Mount Mills.

“We see that spirit in the four companies participating in the Incubator and are excited to see the heights these companies reach both independently and together.”

The incubator is based at a former warehouse. The companies will have access to brew systems, fermentors, and other equipment.

“Our inaugural class of brewers comes from all walks of life and bring with them different approaches, methods, and philosophies towards brewing,” explained Sebastian Wolfrum, Executive Brewmaster at Rocky Mount Mills. “We see the spirit that built Rocky Mount Mills two hundred years ago, and that continues to make our community one of hard work and triumph in each of them. We’re looking forward to seeing and, more importantly, tasting what they have to offer.”

The program is scheduled to last three years with instruction and mentoring in brewing, business development, and more. The startups also will have access to the Nash Community College Brewing, Distillation and Fermentation program.

Snapshots of each brewery, as provided by Rocky Mount Mills:

  • Planetary Elixirs – Bottling soon

“Founded by Scott Meyer, a brewing and winemaking veteran with a deep background in the culinary world; Scott seeks to introduce exotic beverages from different parts of the world to the American palate. His non-alcoholic line of Botanical Infusions will feature drinks like Jamaica Roselle based on the Christmas Sorrel Drink from Jamaica & Thai Tie; inspired by a panoply of iconic Thai flavors including Lime, Ginger, Basil, & Lemongrass. He will sell in 375mL and 1 Liter bottles from the Mill campus and other points throughout NC.”

  • HopFly Brewing Company – Opening 11/18

“A Triangle native, Cameron Schulz spent six years working in corporate merchandising in Columbus, Ohio before returning to his home state to found HopFly Brewing Company. A serendipitous advertisement for the Brewery Incubator came at just the right time, leading Cameron to choose Rocky Mount as the hometown for his new business. HopFly’s mission is to create “beer for every adventure,” with Cameron focused on brewing full-flavored yet sessionable styles that can be enjoyed both in his tasting room and on your next outdoor adventure.”

  • BDD Brewing Company – Opening winter 2017

“A hilarious late night of one too many for a close family member resulted in a family slogan of “Bucken Da Dicey” and the name of Chazz Oesch and cousin, Matt Nichols, home brewing operation. The 26- and 27-year-olds are hungry to make their name in the brewing scene in North Carolina.”

  • Bull Durham Beer Company – Open now

“The first brewery in a minor league stadium takes its namesake from the team it supports and likely the only minor league baseball team a majority of Americans can name. When production at the Durham Bulls Stadium at American Tobacco Campus couldn’t keep up with demand, Bull Durham Beer Company expanded to the Brewery Incubator to continue its success.”