Bottles and Glasses: A Deep Dive into Alexandria VA’s Beer and Wine Offerings
If you’re a beer or wine connoisseur, Alexandria VA is the place to be! This small town on the Potomac River is jam-packed with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From classic breweries to funky wine bars, Alexandria has something for everyone. Let’s take a deep dive into Alexandria’s beer and wine scene to see what all the hype is about.
Alexandria’s Beer Scene
Alexandria has a long history with beer. In the 1800s, the town was home to several breweries, including the largest brewery in the South. Today, Alexandria’s beer scene is more vibrant than ever. Here are some of the best breweries in town:
Port City Brewing Company
Port City Brewing Company is one of the most popular breweries in town. Their signature brew is the Optimal Wit, a Belgian-style white ale that is light, refreshing, and perfect for summer. They also offer a variety of IPAs, stouts, and lagers.
Aslin Beer Company
Aslin Beer Company is a small brewery that packs a punch. They specialize in hazy IPAs, juicy double IPAs, and rich stouts. If you’re a fan of bold flavors and hoppy aromas, this is the brewery for you.
The Lost Dog Café
The Lost Dog Café is a restaurant that also serves as a beer bar. They have an extensive beer list, with over 65 beers on draft and more than 300 bottle options. Plus, they offer a diverse menu of pizzas, sandwiches, and salads to pair with your beer.
Alexandria’s Wine Scene
If wine is more your speed, Alexandria has plenty of options for you too. Here are some of the best wine bars in town:
La Fromagerie
La Fromagerie is more than just a wine bar – it’s also a cheese shop! They offer a variety of artisanal cheeses from around the world, as well as a carefully curated wine list. Plus, they have a beautiful outdoor patio where you can sip your wine and enjoy the sunshine.
Wine House
Wine House is a cozy wine bar that specializes in organic and biodynamic wines. They have an extensive list of wines by the glass and bottle, as well as a menu of small plates to pair with your wine. Plus, they offer weekly wine flights so you can try a variety of wines at once.
Lost Boy Cider
Lost Boy Cider is a cider house that also offers a selection of wines by the glass. Their ciders range from dry to sweet, with flavors like raspberry, ginger, and honey. And if you’re feeling hungry, they also serve a variety of snacks and small plates.
Bottles and Glasses: Buying Beer and Wine in Alexandria
In addition to breweries and wine bars, Alexandria has plenty of options for buying beer and wine to enjoy at home. Here are some of the best stores in town:
The Wine House
Yes, The Wine House is also a wine bar – but it’s also a wine store! They offer wine from all over the world, with a focus on organic and biodynamic wines. Plus, they have friendly and knowledgeable staff who can help you pick out the perfect bottle.
The Brew Shop
The Brew Shop is your one-stop-shop for all things beer. They offer a wide selection of beer-making supplies, as well as a variety of craft beers from around the country. Plus, they offer classes and workshops for homebrewers of all levels.
The Beer Mongers
The Beer Mongers is a bottle shop and taproom that specializes in unique and hard-to-find beers. They have a rotating selection of beers on draft, as well as a cooler full of bottles and cans to take home with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal drinking age in Alexandria?
The legal drinking age in Alexandria (and all of Virginia) is 21.
Can I bring my own bottle of wine to a restaurant in Alexandria?
Some restaurants in Alexandria allow you to bring your own bottle of wine for a corkage fee. Check with the restaurant beforehand to see if they allow this.
What is the best time of year to visit Alexandria’s beer and wine scene?
There’s no bad time to visit Alexandria’s beer and wine scene! However, if you’re a fan of outdoor patios and warm weather, summer is the best time to visit. If you prefer cozy indoor spaces and seasonal drinks, winter is the perfect time to explore.