Sip Local: Richmond’s Must-Visit Craft Distilleries
While Richmond is renowned for its exceptional craft beer scene, it’s time to shine the spotlight on the area’s equally impressive craft distilleries. From smooth moonshine to rich whiskey, these distilleries blend old-world techniques with innovative new flavors, perfectly catering to contemporary tastes. Here are five locally owned distilleries, imbuing Richmond with spirited craft beverages.
Born from a desire to tap into the rich history of America’s original clear spirt, this premium moonshine offers drinkers a more refined option that pairs well with other flavors. Their premium, gluten-free moonshine is crafted with organic corn and quadruple-distilled for purity. What began as a single product – Belle Isle Black Label – today comes in a variety of flavor infusions including Honey Habanero, Lemon Lavender, and Blood Orange.
Designed to rival the refined vodkas of Europe, the award-winning Cirrus Vodka stands out by using potatoes instead of the traditional grains. This choice imparts a slightly sweet, creamier flavor profile. Visit their tasting room for unique to-go cocktail offerings such as Blackberry Smash, Cherry Limeade, Blood Orange Crush, and the Cran-Rosemary Mule.
As only the third distillery outside Kentucky to produce and release Bourbon after Prohibition, Reservoir Distillery’s whiskey is a celebration of Virginia’s heritage—from the local farmers and their grains to the unique climate that matures the spirit. Their award-winning collection includes small-batch, limited-release whiskeys crafted for the discerning enthusiast.
Three Crosses Distilling Company
This family-owned distillery caters to all tastes with its extensive selection of craft whiskeys, rums, and vodkas, all prioritizing local ingredients and traditional methods. Nestled in a picturesque Powhatan setting, Three Crosses invites visitors to linger, enjoy a bite, and savor their meticulously crafted spirits.
At Virago Spirits, traditional production methods meet New World creativity. This distillery operates a rare vintage, direct-fire, 2,500-liter Charentais-style alembic still, producing an exquisite range of rums, gins, and liqueurs that showcase innovative flavor profiles.
