Complete Guide to Best Richmond Breweries and Distilleries
Breweries and Distilleries in the City of Richmond, VA
Richmond, Virginia, has become a vibrant hub for craft beer and spirits enthusiasts, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its rich brewing and distilling culture. The city’s blend of history, artistry, and Southern hospitality makes it a perfect environment for creative brewers and distillers to thrive. Whether you're sipping on an IPA or enjoying a locally crafted whiskey, Richmond offers a dynamic mix of flavors and experiences for every palate.
The brewery and distillery scene in Richmond has seen exponential growth over the past decade, transforming the city into a key player in Virginia’s craft beverage industry. The Greater Richmond area is home to dozens of breweries and distilleries, each with its own unique spin on classic recipes and innovative new creations. The city’s laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, coupled with its passion for local, high-quality products, has fueled this industry’s success. From neighborhood favorites to award-winning taprooms and tasting rooms, Richmond's craft beverage community is a must-visit destination for any connoisseur.
Richmond, VA, has a thriving craft beer and spirits scene, with numerous breweries and distilleries offering unique and locally-produced beverages in the heart of Richmond.
Richmond's brewery and distillery scene has flourished over the past decade due to a combination of factors that have fostered innovation and community engagement. One key element is the city’s supportive environment for small businesses, which has encouraged entrepreneurs to take risks and experiment with new brewing and distilling techniques. Additionally, Richmond’s rich cultural and historical backdrop has inspired local artisans to create unique products that reflect the city’s character and heritage.
The rise of craft beer and spirits culture nationally has also played a significant role, with Richmond positioning itself as a key player in this movement. The city’s active beer and spirits community, including local festivals and events, has helped to build a strong network of enthusiasts and industry professionals. Moreover, Richmond’s commitment to sourcing local ingredients and promoting sustainable practices has resonated with consumers who value authenticity and quality. This combination of supportive infrastructure, cultural inspiration, and growing consumer interest has propelled Richmond’s craft beverage scene into the spotlight. This Richmond native loves seeing all of the good food, exceptional beer, and community events happening around the city both for locals and visitors.
Here's a list of some popular craft breweries and distilleries in the city. Come find out why Richmond has become a popular destination for unique beers and good times.
Best Breweries in City of Richmond, VA
The craft beer enthusiast will be in heaven will the best places to sample awesome craft beer with good people around Richmond, VA. Catch live music, enjoy limited-release brews and enjoy upcoming events at any of these awesome Richond destinations.
Ardent Craft Ales
Ardent Craft Ales opened its doors in 2012 in Richmond’s Scott’s Addition neighborhood, a burgeoning area known for its vibrant craft beer scene. The brewery was founded by a group of passionate beer enthusiasts who aimed to create a range of high-quality, flavorful beers. Ardent is recognized for its commitment to both traditional and innovative brewing techniques, offering a variety of styles including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. The brewery has a welcoming taproom where visitors can enjoy seasonal releases and flagship brews. Ardent also emphasizes community engagement with frequent events and collaborations with local businesses. . Over the years, Ardent has built a loyal following and continues to be a significant player in Richmond's craft beer landscape.
Recommended Drink: Try the Ardent IPA for a well-balanced hop-forward experience that exemplifies their commitment to craft excellence.
Address: 3200 West Leigh Street, Richmond, VA 23230
Blue Bee Cider
Blue Bee Cider was established in 2012 as downtown Richmond’s first urban cidery, bringing a fresh perspective to the local beverage scene. The founders set out to craft high-quality ciders using Virginia-grown apples, focusing on traditional cider-making methods with a modern twist. Blue Bee is known for its artisanal approach, producing a diverse range of ciders that highlight the unique characteristics of different apple varieties. The cidery’s taproom provides a cozy space for patrons to sample and enjoy their offerings. Blue Bee’s Crimson Gold Cider, with its crisp and fruity notes, is a standout in their lineup. The cidery has garnered a strong reputation for its dedication to quality and its contribution to Richmond’s evolving craft beverage culture. Their commitment to using local ingredients and creating distinctive flavors has made Blue Bee a cherished part of the Richmond beverage community.
Recommended Drink: The Virginia Draft Cider is a must-try, featuring a crisp, refreshing taste that showcases the best of local apples.
Address: 1320 Summit Ave, Richmond, VA 23230
Final Gravity Brewing Co.
Final Gravity Brewing Co. began operations in 2013, bringing a cozy, neighborhood-focused brewery experience to Richmond’s Lakeside area. Founded by a family with a deep appreciation for craft beer, Final Gravity offers a range of classic beer styles, including IPAs, stouts, and pale ales. The brewery’s emphasis on quality and consistency is evident in their well-balanced and flavorful beers. Final Gravity provides a welcoming atmosphere with a relaxed vibe, making it a favorite spot for local beer enthusiasts. The brewery’s Final Gravity IPA is known for its bright hop character and balanced bitterness. Over the years, Final Gravity has become a beloved local fixture, known for its friendly service and commitment to crafting excellent beers. Their focus on community and quality has solidified their place in Richmond’s craft beer scene.
Recommended Drink: The Cosmic Cowboy IPA is a standout, offering a balanced hoppy flavor with a smooth finish.
Address: 6118 Lakeside Ave, Richmond, VA 23228
Garden Grove Brewing & Urban Winery
Garden Grove Brewing & Urban Winery opened in 2012, distinguishing itself by combining craft beer and urban winemaking under one roof. Located in Richmond’s Carytown district, Garden Grove offers a unique experience with its diverse selection of beers and wines. The brewery and winery focus on quality and innovation, producing a range of styles from traditional ales to experimental brews and small-batch wines. The inviting taproom and frequent events create a lively atmosphere for visitors to explore their offerings. Garden Grove’s Saison de Garden Grove is particularly noted for its refreshing and flavorful profile. The establishment has garnered a reputation for its creativity and commitment to excellence, making it a standout destination in Richmond’s beverage scene. Garden Grove’s blend of beer and wine under one roof reflects their innovative approach to craft beverages.
Recommended Drink: Sample the Mosaic Pale Ale for its bright, hoppy notes that highlight Garden Grove’s creative brewing approach.
Address: 3445 W Cary St, Richmond, VA 23221
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, founded in 2011, has become a cornerstone of Richmond’s craft beer community. Located in the historic brewery district of Richmond, Hardywood is known for its dedication to quality and creativity in brewing. The brewery’s flagship beers, including the famous Gingerbread Stout, are celebrated for their distinctive flavors and seasonal appeal. Hardywood’s spacious taproom and beer garden provide a great setting for enjoying their diverse range of beers, from IPAs to barrel-aged stouts. The brewery is also known for its community involvement and sustainability efforts. Hardywood has played a significant role in shaping Richmond’s craft beer scene, and its commitment to innovation and quality continues to draw beer enthusiasts from near and far. The brewery’s reputation for excellence and its engaging environment make it a must-visit destination.
Recommended Drink: The Gingerbread Stout is a seasonal favorite, known for its rich, spiced flavor that captures the essence of the holiday season.
Address: 2410 Ownby Lane, Richmond, VA 23220
Isley Brewing Company
Isley Brewing Company opened in 2013 with the goal of bringing flavorful and well-crafted beers to Richmond. Known for its diverse beer lineup, including IPAs, stouts, and seasonal brews, Isley has gained a reputation for its innovative and high-quality offerings. The brewery’s taproom provides a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a range of beers, including their popular Goat of the Woods IPA, known for its bold hop character. Isley’s commitment to quality and creativity is evident in their approach to brewing, which combines traditional methods with modern techniques. Over the years, Isley has established itself as a key player in Richmond’s craft beer scene, known for its excellent beers and welcoming environment. The brewery’s dedication to crafting exceptional beers has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Recommended Drink: The El Duderino IPA is a standout, offering a bold hoppy profile with a smooth finish.
Address: 1715 E Main St, Richmond, VA 23223
Legend Brewing Co.
Legend Brewing Co. opened in 1994, making it one of Richmond’s oldest and most respected breweries. Located in a historic building with a scenic view of the James River, Legend has established itself as a staple in the local craft beer community. The brewery is known for its classic beers, including lagers and ales, as well as its vibrant beer garden. Legend’s Pilsner is a popular choice, praised for its crisp and refreshing taste. The brewery’s longevity and commitment to quality have made it a beloved institution in Richmond. Legend’s welcoming atmosphere and dedication to producing high-quality beers have helped it maintain a strong presence in the local craft beer scene. Over the years, Legend has continued to be a favorite spot for both locals and visitors seeking great beer and a friendly environment.
Recommended Drink: The Brown Ale is a well-rounded choice with rich malt flavors and a smooth finish.
Address: 321 W 7th St, Richmond, VA 23224
Stone Brewing
Stone Brewing, known for its bold and hoppy beers, opened its Richmond location in 2016 as part of its expansion from the West Coast. The brewery has quickly established itself as a significant player in the local craft beer scene, bringing its reputation for high-quality and innovative brews to Richmond. Stone’s spacious taproom and large beer garden provide a lively setting for enjoying a variety of craft beers, including their flagship Stone IPA, known for its hoppy and aromatic profile. The brewery’s commitment to excellence and its engaging environment have made it a popular destination for beer enthusiasts. Stone Brewing’s Richmond location reflects its dedication to quality and its role in shaping the craft beer landscape. The brewery’s presence in Richmond adds a new dimension to the city’s vibrant beer culture.
Recommended Drink: The Stone IPA is a classic choice, known for its intense hop character and balanced bitterness.
Address: 4300 Williamsburg Ave, Richmond, VA 23231
Strangeways Brewing
Strangeways Brewing opened in 2013, quickly gaining a reputation for its eclectic and innovative approach to brewing. Located in Richmond’s Scott’s Addition neighborhood, Strangeways is known for its adventurous beers and unique flavors. The brewery’s focus on creativity and experimentation is evident in its diverse range of offerings, including IPAs, sours, and barrel-aged brews. The welcoming taproom and frequent events create a fun and engaging atmosphere for visitors. Strangeways’ Unicorn Bandit, a blend of flavors and styles, is a fan favorite known for its intriguing taste profile. The brewery’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of craft beer has made it a standout destination in Richmond. Strangeways continues to be a driving force in the local beer scene, celebrated for its innovation and creativity.
Recommended Drink: The Gingerbread Stout is a seasonal favorite, known for its rich and spiced flavor profile.
Address: 2277A Dabney Rd, Richmond, VA 23230
The Veil Brewing Co.
The Veil Brewing Co., founded in 2016, has quickly made a name for itself with its bold and experimental beers. Located in Richmond’s Scott’s Addition, The Veil is renowned for its hazy IPAs, sour ales, and barrel-aged stouts. The brewery’s focus on quality and innovation is reflected in its diverse and rotating beer lineup. The engaging taproom and unique beer offerings create a dynamic and exciting environment for craft beer enthusiasts. The Veil’s Hazy IPA is a standout, known for its juicy and hazy characteristics. The brewery has earned a reputation for pushing the boundaries of craft beer and has become a must-visit destination in Richmond’s vibrant beer scene. The Veil’s dedication to crafting exceptional beers and its innovative approach have solidified its place in the local craft beer landscape.
Recommended Drink: The Mosaic Pale Ale is a standout, offering a bright and hoppy flavor profile with a smooth finish.
Address: 1301 Roseneath Rd, Richmond, VA 23230
Triple Crossing Beer
Triple Crossing Beer opened in 2014, establishing itself as a leading brewery in Richmond’s craft beer scene. Known for its high-quality IPAs, lagers, and small-batch brews, Triple Crossing has built a strong reputation for its exceptional beers and engaging taproom experiences. The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in its diverse beer lineup.. Triple Crossing’s multiple locations, including a prominent downtown spot, provide ample opportunities for visitors to explore their offerings. The brewery’s focus on craftsmanship and its welcoming atmosphere have made it a favorite among local beer enthusiasts. Over the years, Triple Crossing has continued to be a significant player in Richmond’s craft beer community, known for its dedication to excellence and creativity.
Recommended Drink: The Falcon Smash IPA is a must-try, featuring a robust hop flavor with a crisp finish.
Address: 113 S Foushee St, Richmond, VA 23220
The RVA Brew Crew is a passionate community of craft beer enthusiasts and local brewery supporters in Richmond, VA. This group plays a pivotal role in promoting the city's vibrant craft beer scene, organizing events, and fostering connections among brewers and beer lovers. Through regular meetups, brewery tours, and beer tastings, the RVA Brew Crew highlights Richmond’s diverse and dynamic beer culture, making it an integral part of the local craft beer community.
Distilleries in Richmond, VA
Belle Isle Moonshine
Belle Isle Craft Spirits began in 2013, focusing on creating high-quality, handcrafted spirits in Richmond. Known for its artisanal approach, Belle Isle produces a range of spirits, including its signature Moonshine, which is celebrated for its smooth and versatile profile. The distillery’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in its use of local ingredients and traditional distilling methods. Belle Isle has quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional spirits and engaging tasting experiences. The distillery’s role in Richmond’s growing spirits scene reflects its dedication to craftsmanship and excellence. Belle Isle’s products have become popular choices among local and regional consumers, contributing to the vibrant beverage culture in Richmond.
Address: 615 Maury St, Richmond, VA 23224
Cirrus Vodka
Cirrus Vodka is a Richmond-based distillery that specializes in premium, handcrafted vodka. Made from potatoes, Cirrus Vodka offers a smooth and refined taste that stands out in the world of spirits. The distillery’s focus on quality craftsmanship and the use of traditional methods ensure that every bottle delivers a clean, crisp flavor that’s perfect for both sipping and mixing. The Cirrus Classic Vodka is known for its exceptional purity and smoothness.
Address: 1603 Ownby Ln, Richmond, VA 23220
James River Distillery
James River Distillery is known for producing high-quality craft spirits with a focus on traditional methods and local ingredients. They offer a range of spirits, including gin and whiskey, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Their dedication to quality and the rich heritage of Richmond's distilling history make them a notable player in the local spirits scene. Their Richmond Gin is particularly praised for its smooth and aromatic qualities.
Address: 518 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23219
Reservoir Distillery
Reservoir Distillery stands out in the craft whiskey world with its dedication to small-batch, handcrafted spirits. Known for its bourbon, rye, and wheat whiskeys, Reservoir employs meticulous processes to ensure each bottle captures the essence of quality and tradition. The distillery’s commitment to using 100% locally sourced ingredients adds a distinctive character to its whiskeys, reflecting the rich history and flavors of Virginia. Reservoir's Bourbon is a fine example of their craftsmanship with its rich, complex flavor profile.
Address: 1800 Summit Ave, Richmond, VA 23230
Richmond Distillery
Richmond Distillery, established in 2015, is a notable player in the city’s burgeoning spirits scene. The distillery is known for its commitment to producing high-quality, handcrafted spirits, including a range of gins and whiskeys. Richmond Distillery emphasizes traditional distilling techniques and the use of local ingredients to create its distinctive products. The distillery’s Richmond Gin is particularly recognized for its smooth and aromatic qualities. Richmond Distillery has quickly gained a reputation for its excellent spirits and engaging tasting experiences. The distillery’s role in shaping Richmond’s spirits landscape reflects its dedication to quality and innovation.
Address: 7306 N. Run Road, Richmond, VA 23228
Virago Spirits
Virago Spirits is an artisanal distillery in Richmond that focuses on producing high-quality rums, gins, and other spirits. With a commitment to traditional distillation methods and attention to detail, Virago crafts spirits that are both classic and innovative. Their barrel-aged rums and carefully blended gins are particularly noteworthy, offering depth and complexity in every sip. The Virago Barrel-Aged Rum is highly recommended for its rich and smooth characteristics.
Address: 1727 Rhoadmiller St, Richmond, VA 23220
These distilleries each bring something unique to Richmond's vibrant craft spirit scene, making the city a fantastic destination for those looking to explore exceptional locally-produced beverages.
Richmond, VA, is a city rich in history and culture, and its vibrant craft beverage scene is a testament to that legacy. The city’s distilleries offer a diverse range of spirits, each bringing a unique flavor and experience to the table. Whether you’re drawn to the smooth, versatile moonshines of Belle Isle, the meticulously crafted whiskeys of Reservoir, the artisanal rums and gins of Virago Spirits, or the premium potato vodka from Cirrus, Richmond’s distilleries provide a journey into the heart of craftsmanship and quality. Each distillery not only reflects the skill and passion of its makers but also the character and charm of the city itself.
For those who appreciate the art of distilling, a visit to these distilleries is more than just a tasting experience—it’s an exploration of Richmond’s innovative spirit. From the traditional methods that honor the past to the creative techniques that push boundaries, Richmond’s distilleries are at the forefront of a craft revolution. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, exploring these distilleries offers a taste of the rich heritage and dynamic future of Richmond’s craft beverage scene.
Richmond, Virginia, has emerged as a vibrant hub for craft breweries and distilleries, reflecting the city’s rich heritage and innovative spirit. Over the past decade, the local beverage scene has flourished, driven by a passionate community of brewers and distillers dedicated to quality and creativity. From the bold IPAs and seasonal stouts at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery to the artisanal ciders of Blue Bee Cider, Richmond offers a diverse array of options for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Each establishment contributes uniquely to the city's evolving beverage culture, creating a dynamic and welcoming environment for both locals and visitors.
The city's distilleries further enhance this thriving scene, offering a range of handcrafted spirits that highlight Richmond’s commitment to quality. Distilleries like Belle Isle Craft Spirits and Copper Fox Distillery showcase innovative techniques and a deep respect for tradition, producing spirits that are both distinctive and refined. Together with the craft breweries, these distilleries play a crucial role in Richmond’s growing reputation as a destination for exceptional drinks. As the industry continues to evolve, Richmond’s breweries and distilleries remain at the forefront, blending tradition with innovation and inviting everyone to explore and savor the rich flavors of this historic town.
