Bohemian meets heavy metal: Asheville brewery to open new cocktail bar, event space

‘Bohemian meets heavy metal’: Asheville brewery to open new cocktail bar, event space

The craft beer scene in Asheville is about to get a sophisticated twist as Dssolvr brewery prepares to unveil a new cocktail bar and event space called Vowl. The move comes in response to the evolving tastes of consumers, who are showing a growing interest in a wider variety of beverages beyond just beer.

Brewery founders’ vision

Michael Semenec and Vince Tursi, the brains behind Dssolvr, recognized the shifting landscape and saw an opportunity to expand their offerings. The new establishment, set to open its doors on May 17 at 61 North Lexington Ave. downtown, will not only serve as a wine and cocktail bar but also as a flexible event space for the community.

Rise of non-beer beverages

Tursi highlighted the increasing popularity of cocktails, ready-to-drink products, and other non-beer beverages as the driving force behind the decision to introduce a cocktail bar. Dssolvr has already ventured into natural wine and cider production, elements that will feature prominently on Vowl’s menu.

Community engagement

With Vowl, Dssolvr aims to enhance its community engagement by hosting various events such as live music nights, comedy shows, and karaoke. The space can also be reserved for private events catering to groups of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to larger parties.

Dssolvr’s growth

Having outlined their Dssolvr 2.0 Vision Plan in 2022, Semenec and Tursi have since upgraded to 3.0 status with recent expansions, including the opening of a second taproom in Durham last September. In Asheville, the brewery has upped its game by increasing brewing capacity and wine production to meet the growing demand.

Vowl’s unique ambiance

Described as a fusion of “bohemian meets heavy metal,” Vowl’s design aesthetic offers a blend of elegance and edge, featuring soft pastel colors alongside hardcore accents like a striking skull mural. The 2,000-square-foot space will provide seating for around 100 guests and connect seamlessly to Dssolvr’s existing taproom.

Menu offerings

Vowl’s bar menu, crafted by bar manager and mixologist Zane Bucholz, promises a tantalizing array of old-school classics and modern twists on cocktail recipes. Guests can look forward to indulging in a range of concoctions, from traditional Manhattans to Vowl-themed boilermakers, as well as mocktails, seltzers, and hop water.

Welcoming all ages

While alcoholic beverages are reserved for patrons aged 21 and above, Vowl is committed to offering a selection of zero-proof drinks to cater to guests of all ages. The bar remains open to families and visitors, reflecting Asheville’s inclusive and diverse hospitality scene.

Future plans

Looking ahead, Dssolvr has hinted at the possibility of introducing non-alcoholic slushies to their menu, with the option to add a spirit for those seeking a boozy twist. The team is also considering partnering with a permanent food vendor to complement the existing pop-up offerings.

Opening details

Vowl is set to open its doors to the public on May 17, with operating hours extending into the late evening on most days. The bar will welcome guests from 5 p.m. to Midnight Monday-Thursday, 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays.

Conclusion

As Asheville’s beer scene continues to evolve, Dssolvr’s innovative approach to expanding its offerings with Vowl reflects a commitment to meeting the diverse tastes of today’s consumers. The new establishment promises a unique blend of flavors, ambiance, and community engagement, setting the stage for a vibrant and inclusive social hub in the heart of the city.