Beer Explorer

What are the best breweries in Virginia? Whether you’re traveling or this is your home, how do you find the breweries that offer top craft beer in Virginia so you can know which ones are the most worthwhile to check out? We’ve compiled a list of the top-rated breweries in Virginia, based upon the ratings of actual fellow beer-lovers on Untapped. We hope this brewery guide will aid you in your brewery exploration of Old Dominion so that you can maximize your beer and brewery enjoyment. Happy beer exploring!

#10 Benchtop Brewing Company

Benchtop Brewing Company is a highly regarded craft brewery located in Norfolk, Virginia. Here’s an overview of Benchtop Brewing Company:

1. Location: Benchtop Brewing Company is situated in the Ghent neighborhood of Norfolk, a vibrant and historic area known for its cultural attractions, restaurants, and craft beer scene.
2. Founding: Benchtop Brewing Company was founded in 2016 by Eric Tennant and Jerome Waldis. The brewery was born out of their shared passion for brewing and a desire to create unique and innovative beers.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Benchtop Brewing Company is dedicated to producing high-quality and flavorful beers that push the boundaries of traditional brewing styles. They focus on using high-quality ingredients, precise brewing techniques, and creativity to create memorable and distinctive brews.
4. Beer Selection: Benchtop Brewing Company offers a diverse lineup of beers, including IPAs, stouts, sours, saisons, and more. They are known for their creative and experimental approach to brewing, often incorporating unique ingredients and flavor combinations into their beers.
5. Taproom Experience: The brewery’s taproom provides a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. It features a modern and industrial-inspired design with communal seating, a bar area, and often hosts events such as trivia nights, live music, and food trucks.
6. Distribution: In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Benchtop Brewing Company distributes their products to bars, restaurants, and specialty bottle shops throughout Virginia and select locations in other states. They have gained a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts for their quality brews and commitment to innovation.

Overall, Benchtop Brewing Company has become a prominent player in the Norfolk craft beer scene, known for its exceptional beers, welcoming taproom, and dedication to quality and creativity.

#9 Commonwealth Brewing Company

Commonwealth Brewing Company is a well-known craft brewery located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Here’s an overview of Commonwealth Brewing:

1. Location: Commonwealth Brewing Company is situated in the chic and beachy town of Virginia Beach, known for its coastal charm and vibrant community.
2. Founding: Commonwealth Brewing Company was founded in 2015 by Jeramy Biggie and his wife, Natalie, who shared a passion for craft beer and brewing. The brewery quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to brewing and its commitment to quality.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Commonwealth Brewing Company is dedicated to producing a diverse range of high-quality and flavorful beers that showcase the best of what Virginia has to offer. They focus on using locally sourced ingredients, including fruits, hops, and grains, to create unique and memorable brews.
4. Beer Selection: Commonwealth Brewing Company offers an extensive lineup of beers, including IPAs, stouts, sours, saisons, and more. They are known for their creative and adventurous approach to brewing, often experimenting with different ingredients and brewing techniques to push the boundaries of traditional beer styles.
5. Taproom Experience: The brewery’s taproom provides a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. It features a relaxed beach vibe with indoor and outdoor seating options, a bar area, and often hosts events such as live music, yoga classes, and food trucks.
6. Distribution: In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Commonwealth Brewing Company distributes their products to bars, restaurants, and liquor stores throughout Virginia and select locations in other states. They have gained a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts for their quality brews and commitment to innovation.

Overall, Commonwealth Brewing Company has become a beloved fixture in the Virginia craft beer scene, known for its exceptional beers, inviting taproom, and dedication to supporting the local community.

#8 Wheatland Spring Farm + Brewery

Wheatland Spring Farm + Brewery is a farm brewery located in Waterford, Virginia, nestled within Loudoun County’s picturesque countryside. Here’s an overview:

1. Location: Wheatland Spring Farm Brewery is situated on a historic property in Waterford, Virginia, surrounded by rolling hills, fields, and forests. The scenic location provides a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy craft beer amidst the beauty of the countryside.
2. Founding: Wheatland Spring Farm Brewery was founded by Bonita and John Brandt in 2018. The brewery’s location on a working farm reflects their commitment to sustainability and supporting local agriculture.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Wheatland Spring Farm Brewery focuses on producing high-quality, farm-fresh beers using ingredients grown on their own farm whenever possible. They emphasize traditional brewing techniques and aim to create beers that reflect the unique terroir of their farm.
4. Beer Selection: Wheatland Spring Farm Brewery offers a rotating selection of beers, including farmhouse ales, saisons, IPAs, and more. They often incorporate seasonal and locally sourced ingredients into their brews, resulting in beers that are both flavorful and distinctive.
5. Taproom Experience: The brewery’s taproom provides a rustic and inviting atmosphere for visitors to relax and enjoy their beers. The taproom features indoor and outdoor seating areas, with views of the surrounding farmland and mountains. Visitors can often find food trucks onsite to complement their beer experience.
6. Sustainability: As a farm brewery, Wheatland Spring is committed to sustainable practices, including water conservation, waste reduction, and supporting biodiversity on their farm. They strive to minimize their environmental impact while producing exceptional craft beer.
7. Distribution: While Wheatland Spring Farm Brewery primarily serves beer onsite at their taproom, they may also distribute limited quantities to select bars, restaurants, and specialty shops in the region.

Overall, Wheatland Spring Farm Brewery offers visitors a unique farm-to-glass beer experience, combining the beauty of the countryside with the pleasure of enjoying locally crafted beer made with ingredients grown right on the farm.

#7 Final Gravity Brewing

Final Gravity Brewing Co. is a well-regarded craft brewery located in Richmond, Virginia. Here’s an overview of Final Gravity Brewing:

1. Location: Final Gravity Brewing Co. is situated in Richmond, Virginia, a city known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and burgeoning craft beer culture.
2. Founding: Final Gravity Brewing Co. was founded in 2011 by Tony Ammendolia and Chris and Jason Tumer. The brewery started as a small operation in a garage and has since grown into a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts in the Richmond area.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Final Gravity Brewing Co. is dedicated to brewing high-quality and innovative beers that showcase a wide range of styles and flavors. They focus on using fresh and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and strive to create beers that are both flavorful and balanced.
4. Beer Selection: Final Gravity Brewing Co. offers a diverse lineup of beers, including IPAs, stouts, porters, saisons, and more. They are known for their creative and adventurous approach to brewing, often experimenting with unique ingredients and brewing techniques to create distinctive and memorable brews.
5. Taproom Experience: The brewery’s taproom provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. It features a relaxed and casual setting with communal seating, a bar area, and often hosts events such as trivia nights, live music, and food trucks.
6. Distribution: In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Final Gravity Brewing Co. distributes their products to bars, restaurants, and liquor stores throughout the Richmond area. They have gained a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts for their quality beers and commitment to excellence.

Overall, Final Gravity Brewing Co. has become a beloved fixture in the Richmond craft beer scene, known for its outstanding beers, welcoming taproom, and dedication to the local community.

#6 Aslin Beer Company

Aslin Beer Company is a highly regarded craft brewery located in Herndon, Virginia. Here’s an overview of Aslin Beer Company:

1. Location: Aslin Beer Company is based in Herndon, a town located in Fairfax County, Virginia. The brewery has gained significant attention and acclaim within the craft beer community, both locally and nationally.
2. Founding: Aslin Beer Company was founded in 2015 by Andrew Kelley, Kai Leszkowicz, and Richard Thompson. The brewery quickly gained a reputation for its innovative and flavorful beers, as well as its commitment to quality and experimentation.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Aslin Beer Company is dedicated to brewing a wide variety of beer styles, including IPAs, stouts, sours, and barrel-aged beers. They focus on using high-quality ingredients and precise brewing techniques to create unique and memorable brews.
4. Beer Selection: Aslin Beer Company offers a diverse lineup of beers, often featuring bold flavors, creative ingredient combinations, and limited-edition releases. Some of their popular offerings include hazy IPAs, pastry stouts, fruited sours, and double IPAs.
5. Taproom Experience: The brewery’s taproom provides a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. It features a modern and industrial-inspired design with communal seating, a bar area, and often hosts events such as beer releases, food trucks, and live music.
6. Expansion: In addition to their brewery in Herndon, Aslin Beer Company has expanded its operations over the years. They have opened additional taproom locations in Virginia and Maryland, allowing more people to enjoy their beers.

Overall, Aslin Beer Company has become a highly respected and sought-after brewery in Virginia, known for its innovative beers, commitment to quality, and community involvement.

#5 Adroit Theory

Adroit Theory Brewing Company is a well-known craft brewery located in Purcellville, Virginia. Here’s an overview of Adroit Theory:

1. Location: Adroit Theory Brewing Company is situated in Purcellville, a town located in Loudoun County, Virginia. Purcellville is part of the Northern Virginia region, known for its scenic beauty, historic sites, and burgeoning craft beer scene.
2. Founding: Adroit Theory Brewing Company was founded in 2011 by Mark Osborne and Nina Osborne. The brewery has gained recognition for its dedication to brewing innovative and experimental beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Adroit Theory Brewing Company is committed to producing a wide range of unique and flavorful beers, including IPAs, stouts, sours, and barrel-aged brews. They focus on using high-quality ingredients and creative brewing techniques to create bold and memorable flavors.
4. Beer Selection: Adroit Theory Brewing Company offers a diverse lineup of beers, often featuring bold and unconventional flavor profiles. They are known for their extensive catalog of beers, including limited-edition releases and special collaborations with other breweries.
5. Taproom Experience: The brewery’s taproom provides a welcoming and intimate atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. It features a modern and industrial-inspired design with communal seating, a bar area, and often hosts events such as beer releases, tastings, and live music.
6. Distribution: In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Adroit Theory Brewing Company distributes their products to bars, restaurants, and liquor stores throughout Virginia and select locations in other states. They have gained a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts for their adventurous and high-quality brews.

Overall, Adroit Theory Brewing Company has become a prominent fixture in the Virginia craft beer scene, known for its creativity, quality, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of beer-making.

#4 Triple Crossing

Triple Crossing Brewing Company is a renowned craft brewery located in Richmond, Virginia. Here’s an overview of Triple Crossing Brewery:

1. Location: Triple Crossing Brewery operates two locations in Richmond, Virginia. The original location, known as Fulton Hill, is situated in the historic Fulton neighborhood on the eastern side of the city. The second location, named Downtown, is in the heart of Richmond’s downtown district.
2. Founding: Triple Crossing Brewery was founded in 2014 by Adam Worcester, Jeremy Wirtes, and Scott Jones. Since its inception, the brewery has garnered significant acclaim for its high-quality beers and innovative brewing techniques.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Triple Crossing Brewery is dedicated to brewing a diverse range of beers that showcase creativity, quality, and consistency. They focus on producing hop-forward styles, such as IPAs and pale ales, as well as barrel-aged and mixed fermentation beers.
4. Beer Selection: Triple Crossing Brewery offers a rotating lineup of beers, with a particular emphasis on hoppy ales. Some of their popular offerings include Falcon Smash IPA, Clever Girl IPA, and Paranoid Aledroid Imperial Stout. They also produce limited-edition releases and special collaborations with other breweries.
5. Taproom Experience: Both locations of Triple Crossing Brewery offer inviting and spacious taprooms where patrons can enjoy their beers. The taprooms feature modern and industrial-inspired designs with ample seating, a bar area, and often host events such as beer releases, live music, and food trucks.
6. Distribution: In addition to serving beer at their taprooms, Triple Crossing Brewery distributes their products to bars, restaurants, and liquor stores throughout Virginia and select locations in other states. They have gained a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts for their quality brews and commitment to excellence.

Overall, Triple Crossing Brewery has become a prominent player in the Richmond craft beer scene, known for its exceptional beers, welcoming taprooms, and dedication to quality and innovation.

#3 Red Dragon Brewery

Red Dragon Brewery is a craft brewery located in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Here’s an overview:

1. Location: Red Dragon Brewery is situated in Fredericksburg, a historic city located in Northern Virginia. Fredericksburg is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant craft beer scene.
2. Founding: Red Dragon Brewery was founded in 2013 by Doug and Tammy Tate. The brewery is family-owned and operated, with a focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy craft beer.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Red Dragon Brewery is dedicated to brewing high-quality and flavorful beers that appeal to a wide range of tastes. They offer a variety of beer styles, from traditional ales and lagers to more experimental and creative brews.
4. Beer Selection: Red Dragon Brewery offers a rotating selection of beers on tap, including IPAs, stouts, porters, pilsners, and more. They often feature seasonal and limited-edition releases, as well as special collaborations with other local businesses and breweries.
5. Taproom Experience: The brewery’s taproom provides a laid-back and inviting atmosphere for visitors to relax and enjoy their beers. The taproom features indoor and outdoor seating areas, with a rustic and cozy ambiance. Visitors can often find board games, live music, and food trucks onsite.
6. Distribution: While Red Dragon Brewery primarily serves beer at their taproom, they may also distribute limited quantities to select bars, restaurants, and specialty shops in the Fredericksburg area.

Overall, Red Dragon Brewery offers visitors a welcoming and family-friendly environment to enjoy craft beer while experiencing the unique charm of Fredericksburg, Virginia.

#2 The Veil Brewing Co.

The Veil Brewing Co. is a highly acclaimed craft brewery located in Richmond, Virginia. Here’s an overview:

1. Location: The Veil Brewing Co. is situated in the Scott’s Addition neighborhood of Richmond, which has become a hub for craft breweries, cideries, distilleries, and restaurants.
2. Founding: The Veil Brewing Co. was founded in 2016 by Matt Tarpey, Dave Michelow, and Dustin Durrance. Since its inception, the brewery has gained significant recognition for its innovative and experimental approach to brewing.
3. Brewing Philosophy: The Veil Brewing Co. is known for its focus on brewing hop-forward and barrel-aged beers, as well as wild and mixed-fermentation ales. They prioritize quality ingredients, precise brewing techniques, and creativity in their beer-making process.
4. Beer Selection: The Veil Brewing Co. offers a diverse and rotating lineup of beers, including hazy IPAs, sour ales, stouts, and barrel-aged brews. They are known for their bold and flavorful beers, often featuring unique ingredients and flavor combinations.
5. Taproom Experience: The brewery’s taproom provides a modern and vibrant atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. It features a sleek and industrial-inspired design with communal seating, a bar area, and often hosts events such as can releases, beer releases, and food trucks.
6. Distribution: In addition to serving beer at their taproom, The Veil Brewing Co. distributes their products to bars, restaurants, and specialty bottle shops throughout Virginia and select locations in other states. They have gained a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts for their quality brews and commitment to innovation.

Overall, The Veil Brewing Co. has become a prominent player in the Richmond craft beer scene, known for its exceptional beers, cutting-edge brewing techniques, and vibrant taproom experience.

#1 The Answer

The Answer Brewpub is a well-known craft beer destination located in Richmond, Virginia. Here’s an overview of The Answer Brewpub:

1. Location: The Answer Brewpub is situated in Richmond’s historic Jackson Ward neighborhood. Richmond is known for its burgeoning craft beer scene, and The Answer Brewpub has become a prominent fixture in the city.
2. Founding: The Answer Brewpub was founded in 2014 by An Bui, who is also the owner of Mekong Restaurant, a highly acclaimed Vietnamese restaurant located next door. The brewpub was born out of Bui’s passion for craft beer and desire to create a unique beer destination in Richmond.
3. Brewing Philosophy: The Answer Brewpub is dedicated to brewing a diverse range of high-quality and innovative beers that appeal to a wide range of tastes. They offer a variety of beer styles, including IPAs, stouts, sours, and barrel-aged beers, often featuring bold flavors and unique ingredients.
4. Beer Selection: The Answer Brewpub offers an extensive lineup of beers, with a particular emphasis on hop-forward styles and experimental brews. They are known for their rotating selection of IPAs, as well as their barrel-aged stouts and sour ales. The brewpub frequently releases new and limited-edition beers, keeping their offerings fresh and exciting.
5. Food and Taproom Experience: In addition to its stellar beer selection, The Answer Brewpub also offers a full-service kitchen serving Vietnamese-inspired cuisine. The taproom provides a casual and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers, with ample seating and a laid-back vibe.
6. Distribution: While The Answer Brewpub primarily serves beer at its location, they may occasionally distribute limited quantities of their beers to select bars, restaurants, and bottle shops in the Richmond area.

Overall, The Answer Brewpub has become a beloved destination for craft beer enthusiasts in Richmond, known for its exceptional beers, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere.