Lynchburg, Virginia may not be home to an internationally-known whiskey distillery (that’s another Lynchburg), but what it lacks in liquor fame, it makes up for in incredible, high quality beer, wine and spirits. In just a short drive, you can have access to local, craft brews; deep, flavorful local wine; and gin, whiskey and vodka that is unique as Lynchburg itself.
Local Brews
If you’re in Lynchburg, you can’t miss a trip (or two) to Apocalypse Ale Works. The first brewery in Lynchburg since Thomas Jefferson was brewing beer at Poplar Forest in the 1800s, Apocalypse keeps around 20 beers on tap and in rotation in their tasting room. With a heated patio and deck overlooking a grassy lawn and corn hole games, Apocalypse is perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Plus, if you love their beer and you live anywhere in Virginia, you’re in luck! They currently distribute all over the state!
Nearby Brews
For a full day of brewery tours, you won’t want to miss the Nelson 151 Brewery Corridor. Blue Mountain Brewery, Devil’s Backbone and Wild Wolf Brewing Company are all within a short drive of each other (with a stop at cidery or two along the way!). All of these breweries are local to our area, with some distributing nationwide. For a safe, easy way of navigating the Nelson 151, tours are available through Brew Ridge Tours. Just a small, per person fee will get you and your party safely and affordably to some of the best breweries in the area.
Local Wineries
Local winery Leo Grande is best enjoyed on a warm day, when you can sit outside in a cozy adirondack chair overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains. But even if the weather is a little on the chilly side, their tasting room is inviting and their wine is mouthwatering. A distinctive oak flavor can be noted from their aging process—and it’s a flavor you’ll want to savor.
Nearby Wineries
Virginia’s landscape is ideal for certain varietals of grapes, making the Lynchburg area a perfect, central location for Virginia wineries. From wineries perched atop a mountain to wineries situated right beside a polo field, the wineries in this area will offer something for every palette, budget and aesthetic. Also nearby is Skjald Meadworks, which offers an eclectic mix of traditional and experimental meads.
Local Distilleries
While a tasting room isn’t open just yet, Lynchburg is home to an up-and-coming distillery that boasts some of the best bourbon around. Done and Spear Distillery specializes in small batch bourbon that’s distilled and bottled right in town. Even though you can’t stop for a visit just yet, you can find their bourbon at our local ABC or at Fifth and Federal Restaurant.
Nearby Distilleries
On your way to the Nelson 151 Corridor, you’ll pass by the Virginia Distillery Company. Their handcrafted single malt whiskey is smooth, slightly smokey and a great introduction to the local spirits scene. Plus, their tasting room—complete with large fireplace, polished wooden bar and relaxing outdoor deck—is beautiful and inviting. If you’re not into straight whiskey, you can also purchase a flight of handcrafted cocktails, all using their single malt offering.
Nearby to the Virginia Distillery is also Silverback Distillery. Silverback offers a selection of handcrafted gin, vodka and whiskey, all of which are nationally ranked and award winning. Spend a slow afternoon out on their patio if it’s warm, or snag a seat right at the bar in their tasting room. Their knowledgeable bartenders will walk you through their distilling process for each liquor and help you understand what makes their spirits so special.