Never underestimate the ability and desire of politards to ruin everything they touch. Here's a site that gives you a rundown on many (but certainly not all) of the most popular Asheville breweries. I like Wicked Weed, New Belgium, Green Man, and if we're in the mood for BBQ, 12 Bones Brewery is good too. The Sierra Nevada Brewery has a guided tour that's worth taking.
I'd also like to visit Zebulon in Weaverville, which is just a few miles north of Asheville. It's only open for a few hours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Weaverville has some really good restaurants as well.