From Appalachia to the Coast: Virginia’s Best Beers
When it comes to craft beers, Virginia may not be the first state that comes to mind. However, this Commonwealth packs a punch when it comes to its brewing scene. From the mountains to the coastline, Virginia’s breweries are producing some of the best beers in the country. Here are just a few of Virginia’s best beers.
Porter and Stout
Porter and Stout are two types of beer that are often confused with each other. Porter is a lighter beer that is usually served in pubs, while Stout is a heavier beer that is often enjoyed in the winter months. Virginia has some excellent examples of both.
Porter – Legend Brown Ale
Legend Brown Ale is made by the Legend Brewing Company, which was founded in 1993. It is a rich, malty beer with a nutty flavor that is perfect for sipping on a cool fall evening. The brewery is located in Richmond and offers tours and tastings.
Stout – Hardywood Gingerbread Stout
The Hardywood Park Craft Brewery in Richmond makes an excellent Gingerbread Stout. This rich, dark beer is brewed with fresh ginger and spices and aged for several months to develop its complex flavor. It is the perfect beer to warm you up on a cold winter night.
IPA
IPA, or India Pale Ale, is a popular type of beer that is known for its strong hop flavors. Virginia has some great examples of IPAs that are must-tries for any beer lover.
Devil’s Backbone Eight Point IPA
Devil’s Backbone Brewing Company in Roseland, Virginia, makes an excellent IPA called the Eight Point IPA. This beer has a crisp, dry finish and a perfect balance of hops and malt. It is an excellent beer to pair with spicy foods or grilled meats.
Starr Hill Northern Lights IPA
Starr Hill Brewery in Crozet, Virginia, makes a delicious Northern Lights IPA. This beer has a citrusy aroma and flavor and is perfect for those who love hoppy beers. It’s also a great beer to bring on a hiking trip or camping weekend.
Fruit Beers
Fruit beers are a popular type of beer that can be made with a variety of fruits, such as raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries. Virginia has some excellent fruit beers that are perfect for summertime drinking.
Blue Mountain Barrel House Local Species
Blue Mountain Brewery’s Barrel House in Arrington, Virginia, makes an excellent beer called Local Species. This Belgian-style ale is brewed with honey and Virginia-grown raspberries for a subtle fruity flavor. It’s a perfectly refreshing beer for a hot summer day.
Bold Rock Virginia Apple Hard Cider
Bold Rock Cidery produces an excellent hard cider made from Virginia-grown apples. This crisp, refreshing cider has a lively carbonation and a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. It’s a gluten-free beverage that is a must-try for anyone who loves cider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best beer in Virginia?
This is a tough question to answer because Virginia has so many excellent breweries and beers. However, some of the best beers in Virginia include Legend Brown Ale, Hardywood Gingerbread Stout, Devil’s Backbone Eight Point IPA, and Blue Mountain Barrel House Local Species.
What is the oldest brewery in Virginia?
The oldest brewery in Virginia is the Yuengling Brewery, which was founded in 1829. However, it is important to note that Yuengling did not begin brewing beer in Virginia until 2017, when it opened a second brewery in Richmond.
What is the craft beer scene like in Virginia?
The craft beer scene in Virginia is thriving, with over 400 breweries throughout the state. Virginia is known for its creative brewers who incorporate local ingredients like honey, fruit, and even oysters into their beers. With so many breweries to choose from, there is truly something for every beer lover in Virginia.