You have to say this about Buck Bald Brewing in Murphy, North Carolina. They are (mostly) consistent. When I stopped by this December for my first visit, every beer they had on tap, regardless of style or strength, was selling for $6.50 a pint. Then too, single pint cans to go were also selling for $6.50 each. Curiously, a 32-ounce growler fill was $14, or $7 a pint. See? Mostly consistent.
Price is important when rating beer, at least for me. A high price will not stop me from buying a beer if the quality is there, but all things being equal, if two beers are of the same quality and style, it would make sense as a consumer to go with the lower priced option. That is more important than ever after the two Covid stimulus packages drove inflation under President Joe Biden, and now tariffs are doing it under Trump. I am seeing prices for beer and just about everything surge as we close out 2025.
All that said, I thought the pint prices at Buck Bald in Murphy were very fair indeed, less than the average $7 to $8 I see in most places these days. The can prices were a little high, I think, but that did not stop me from bringing some home, including the one I am here to speak to: Buck Bald Buck's Frosty Balls Cold IPA.
Cold IPA is a lager/ale hybrid that allows for bold hop character against a clean malt backbone. Fruity esters from the yeast are reduced, though the hops can and do still throw off fruit.
Buck's Frosty Balls Cold IPA is currently listed as on tap at Murphy, according to the brewery website.
Buck Bald Buck's Frosty Balls Cold IPA has an alcohol content of 7% by volume and my can was stamped PKG 10/27/25.
About Buck Bald Brewery
Since opening our doors in Copperhill, Tennessee in September of 2018, we have built an amazing culture of locally brewed craft beer, ultra-friendly staff, and a dedicated following of locals and visitors that cannot be matched. And now you can visit us in our original Copperhill location or our new location in Murphy, North Carolina. No matter which location you choose, you'll be sure to get the same dedication to delicious craft beer and the same warm and inviting atmosphere.
Buck Bald Buck's Frosty Balls Cold India Pale Ale in a Buck Bald Brewing Glass
Tasting Notes
My taster glass of Valley River Amber Knight Ale arrived with a light head formation and a beautiful deep caramel color. The nose was inviting with malty goodness, and a sip revealed a smooth caramel malty palate and balancing bitterness at the last. Decidedly emphasizes the malt, and that's what I want in the style.
Value & Verdict
Single pint cans to go were also selling for $6.50 each.
One of the best "cold IPAs" I can recall having.
