Charlottesville, Virginia is a city known for its rich history, beautiful scenery, and vibrant arts and culture scene. But did you know that Charlottesville is also home to a thriving craft distilling scene? There are over a dozen distilleries in the area, each with its own unique story and spirit.
If you’re a fan of spirits, you’ll definitely want to add a distillery tour to your Charlottesville itinerary. Here are the top 10 distilleries to visit in Charlottesville, VA, ranked in order of my personal preference:
1. Spirit Lab Distilling
Spirit Lab Distilling is a small, award-winning distillery located in the heart of Charlottesville. They specialize in small-batch spirits, using locally-sourced ingredients. Their spirits are known for their smooth flavor and complex aroma.
2. Vitae Spirits Distillery
Vitae Spirits Distillery is another small, award-winning distillery in Charlottesville. They produce a wide variety of spirits, including vodka, gin, whiskey, and rum. Their spirits are known for their high quality and innovative flavor profiles.
3. Ragged Branch Distillery
Ragged Branch Distillery is a larger distillery located just outside of Charlottesville. They produce a wide variety of spirits, including bourbon, rye, and gin. Their spirits are known for their bold flavor and smooth finish.
4. The Virginia Distillery Company
The Virginia Distillery Company is a relatively new distillery, but they’ve quickly made a name for themselves. They produce a wide variety of spirits, including bourbon, rye, and American single malt whiskey. Their spirits are known for their complex flavor and high quality.
5. Blue Ridge Distilling Company
Blue Ridge Distilling Company is a distillery located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, just outside of Charlottesville. They produce a wide variety of spirits, including vodka, gin, and whiskey. Their spirits are known for their smooth flavor and clean finish.
6. Carter Mountain Orchard
Carter Mountain Orchard is not technically a distillery, but they do produce their own brand of apple brandy. Their apple brandy is made from locally-grown apples and is known for its smooth flavor and complex aroma.
7. Oak & Apple Distillery
Oak & Apple Distillery is a small, family-owned distillery located in Lovingston, Virginia. They produce a wide variety of spirits, including vodka, gin, and whiskey. Their spirits are known for their smooth flavor and clean finish.
8. Silverback Distillery
Silverback Distillery is a small, award-winning distillery located in Crozet, Virginia. They produce a wide variety of spirits, including vodka, gin, and whiskey. Their spirits are known for their bold flavor and smooth finish.
9. Bold Rock Hard Cider
Bold Rock Hard Cider is not technically a distillery, but they do produce their own brand of hard cider. Their hard cider is made from locally-grown apples and is known for its refreshing flavor and crisp finish.
10. Starr Hill Brewery
Starr Hill Brewery is a brewery located in Crozet, Virginia. They do not produce spirits, but they do offer a variety of craft beers that are sure to please.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many great distilleries in Charlottesville, VA. With so many to choose from, you’re sure to find one that you’ll love. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your distillery tour today!
