Richmond, VA Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Expert Tour of Top Brews
Richmond, Virginia, has established itself as a prominent hub for craft beer enthusiasts. Recognized as the #1 craft beer destination in the world, the region boasts a vibrant scene with over 30 craft breweries, distilleries, and cideries. These establishments offer a diverse range of locally made beers and ciders, catering to an array of tastes and preferences. With a rich history that saw its first modern craft beer revival ignited by Legend Brewing Co. in 1994, the city's craft beer culture has evolved significantly, experiencing a boom in the early 2010s thanks to favorable legislation and a growing interest in artisanal brewing.
The local breweries in Richmond not only serve exceptional beer but also contribute to the city's culture and identity. Visitors can explore an assortment of styles and flavors, from the Tangerine Express Hazy IPA to unique offerings such as canned margaritas and bottled seltzers. The craft beer guide to Richmond, therefore, is not just about listing beers to try but also about highlighting the experiences unique to each brewery's setting, such as enjoying a pint in cool spaces with live food trucks enhancing the gastronomic experience.
Navigating through the city's expansive craft beer landscape, the Richmond Beer Trail offers a structured path for sampling this artisanal craftsmanship. The trail acts as an invitation for locals and tourists alike to explore more than 30 craft breweries, each with its individual character and brewing philosophy. This comprehensive guide to Richmond's local craft beer scene stands as a testament to the city's commitment to quality, innovation, and community within the craft brewing industry.
History of Richmond’s Brewing and Cider Scene
Richmond, Virginia's brewing heritage is as rich and multifaceted as the city's own history. The turning point in its contemporary beer narrative began in 1994 with the establishment of Legend Brewing Co. This pivotal moment marked the resurgence of a brewing tradition that had been dormant for much of the late 20th century, post-Prohibition years.
In the early 1990s, Richbrau Brewing Co. made its debut on 1214 Cary Street. The Richbrau name was a nod to an earlier Home Brewing Company, yet the new operation had no historical ties to its predecessor. It was Legend Brewing Co. that ignited Richmond's modern craft beer scene, delivering its first keg in 1994 to the Commercial Taphouse on Robinson Street.
The cider scene in Richmond, while not as extensively documented, has also gained traction, with local cideries contributing to the diversification of the city's craft beverage landscape.
Key Milestones:
Early 1990s: Reemergence of local breweries with Richbrau Brewing Co.
1994: Legend Brewing Co. jumpstarts craft beer revival.
May 2012: House Bill 359 catalyzes the beer scene by allowing breweries to lease space to other entities.
Notable Breweries:
Legend Brewing Co.: Oldest operating brewery in Richmond.
Richbrau Brewing Co.: A modern iteration honoring historic roots.
Richmond's beer and cider culture has also been shaped by legislative changes, such as House Bill 359, which in 2012 permitted brewers more flexibility in leasing spaces, effectively nurturing the growth of the industry.
These foundations have laid the groundwork for a thriving craft beer and cider scene, reflecting centuries of Richmond's brewing history and an entrepreneurial spirit driven by innovation and a respect for tradition.
Guide to Richmond Breweries
Richmond, Virginia, boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with over 30 establishments offering a diverse range of styles. As one of the premier craft beer destinations in the world, the region is home to pioneering and innovative breweries, including some that have significantly shaped the city's beer culture.
Legend Brewing Co.
Established: 1994
Noteworthy: Richmond’s oldest craft brewery, integral to kickstarting the modern beer movement in the area.
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
Highlights: Known for their creative and seasonal brews, they also focus on sustainability and community engagement.
The Veil Brewing Co.
Specialty: They excel in crafting unique and experimental beers, often using unconventional ingredients.
Triple Crossing
Known For: A variety of IPAs, including their flagship, the Falcon Smash IPA.
Strangeways Brewing
Innovation: This brewery is noted for its wide variety of unusual and exotic beers, catering to adventurous palates.
Patrons can follow the Richmond Beer Trail to explore these and other local breweries, experiencing the craft and care that go into every brew. Many breweries also offer on-site food options, like the food truck at the brewery with address 3401 Williamsburg Ave, Richmond, VA, ensuring a satiating experience of both food and drink.
Visitors should consider the Tangerine Express Hazy IPA and explore the diverse range of canned margaritas and bottled seltzers available at select locations. The Richmond craft beer scene invites beer aficionados and casual drinkers alike to enjoy the convivial atmosphere and innovative offerings.
Top Richmond Craft Beers
Richmond's craft beer scene showcases an array of unique and flavorful beers, with local breweries excelling in a variety of styles. Here, IPA aficionados and stout lovers alike can find a brew to suit their tastes.
IPAs
Tangerine Express Hazy IPA
Brewery: A local favorite known for its juicy flavors and citrusy aroma.
Profile: This hazy IPA blends the zest of tangerines with a smooth, hoppy finish.
Saisons
Richmond Farmhouse Saison
Brewery: An artisanal brewery with a penchant for seasonal flavors.
Profile: A classic saison with a peppery spice that complements its light, fruity esters.
Stouts
Gingerbread Stout
Brewery: A craft brewery with a reputation for innovative seasonal brews.
Profile: This stout presents a harmonious mix of ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla, evoking a freshly-baked gingerbread cookie.
Pilsners
Crisp Richmond Pils
Brewery: Known for their refined lagering techniques.
Profile: A refreshing pilsner with a delicate balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness.
Sours
Virginia Wild Sour
Brewery: A brewery celebrated for its wild fermentation processes.
Profile: A brightly tart sour that captures the essence of local fruit varieties with a pleasantly acidic bite.
Cider Houses and Meaderies
Richmond's craft beverage scene extends beyond beer, embracing the art of cider and mead production with enthusiasm. Local connoisseurs relish in the distinct flavors offered by the city's prominent cider houses and meaderies.
Blue Bee Cider
Specializes in: Variety of ciders, mostly from Virginia apples.
Notable feature: Urban cidery with a focus on artisanal methods.
Buskey Cider
Known for: A modern approach to cidemaking with a creative twist.
Location: In the heart of Richmond.
Product range: Includes seasonal releases and flagship ciders.
Courthouse Creek Cider
Approach: Traditional methods, including natural fermentation.
Selection: Offers a range of ciders, from dry to sweet.
Black Heath Meadery
Product highlight: Honey wines with unique local flavors.
Richmond's cideries pride themselves on the use of local ingredients, often Virginia-grown apples, which contribute to a sustainable craft and authentically local taste profiles. Whether patrons are seeking a dry, complex cider or a sweet, honey-infused mead, Richmond's cider houses and meaderies offer a variety of handcrafted beverages to explore. These establishments not only provide a unique tasting experience but also educate guests on the processes and traditions behind their creations.
Brewpubs and Taprooms
Richmond’s vibrant beer scene is home to a variety of brewpubs and taprooms, offering an array of craft beer experiences.
The Answer Brewpub is a destination for beer enthusiasts, closely associated with the celebrated Mekong Restaurant. It stands out for its inventive beer offerings and vibrant atmosphere. Patrons can find a diverse selection of brews, with a focus on IPAs and unique flavor combinations.
Final Gravity Brewing Co. offers a unique twist on traditional styles. A homebrew shop turned brewery, they provide a personalized experience with their quality microbrews that appeal to both novices and aficionados.
Triple Crossing Brewing presents a repertoire of beers that prioritize freshness and quality. Known for their well-crafted IPAs and stouts, they have established themselves as a key player in Richmond's craft beer landscape.
Brewpubs and Taprooms in Richmond:
The Answer Brewpub
Renowned beer menu
Communal ambience
Final Gravity Brewing Co.
Distinctive brew styles
Educational experience
Triple Crossing Brewing
Fresh, high-quality brews
Famed IPAs and stouts
This diversity ensures that Richmond's beer culture caters to a wide audience, providing a taste for every palate. Each establishment contributes its unique flair to the craft beer tapestry of Richmond.
The Craft Beer Experience
Richmond's craft beer scene is renowned, offering a robust selection of brews paired with a vibrant food culture. They cater to beer geeks through a variety of events, integrating the culinary arts into their beer culture.
Food Pairings
Richmond breweries often feature on-site food trucks, providing a curated selection of eats that complement their unique beer offerings. For example, food trucks may serve up gourmet bites, ranging from classic American fare to international cuisine, tailored to pair perfectly with a brewery's selection, like a Tangerine Express Hazy IPA. Craft beer enthusiasts revel in these pairings, which enhance both the culinary and beer-drinking experience.
Suggested Pairing:
Beer: Tangerine Express Hazy IPA
Food: Street Tacos from on-site food truck
Events and Tours
The Richmond beer landscape is dotted with events designed for both the casual enthusiast and the discerning beer geek. They might find themselves at a brewery hosting a special release party or engaging in tours that showcase the brewing process and the story behind each beer. Events can include beer festivals, tasting competitions, and brewer-led discussions, bringing people together and fostering a community around local craft beer.
Attendees Might Experience:
Release Party: Special Edition Brews
Brewery Tour: Behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process
Local Beer Culture
They say the local culture of Richmond is steeped in a deep appreciation for craft beer. This is evident in how establishments, from the city's oldest operating brewery Legend Brewing Co. to the more recent additions, strive to create not just beverages, but experiences. The culture is celebrated with the Richmond Beer Trail, inviting one to explore over 30 craft breweries, distilleries, and cideries, underlining Richmond's status as a premier beer destination.
Richmond Beer Trail:
Experience: A journey through 30+ local craft breweries
Highlight: Sampling diverse beer offerings in the region
Richmond Beer and Cider Awards
Richmond, Virginia's craft beer scene has garnered high praise, with the region's breweries accumulating various awards. The accolades reflect the quality and diversity of the local beer experience, cementing Richmond's reputation as a leader in the craft beer industry.
Vinepair recognized Richmond as the #1 craft beer destination in the world, pointing to the myriad of craft breweries that have distinguished themselves through exceptional brewing practices. The breweries here compete in state, national, and international competitions, consistently bringing home medals that honor their innovation and excellence.
Individual breweries, such as Final Gravity Brewing Co., are known for their exceptional IPAs and stouts. Although specific award details for breweries are not listed, their stellar reputation among locals signifies a high level of quality that would merit recognition.
Here is a summary of the types of accolades achieved by Richmond breweries:
Local Awards: Favorite brewery nods in Richmond-based competitions and local publications.
State Awards: Recognition within Virginia beer competitions, such as the Virginia Craft Beer Cup.
National Competitions: Medals from contests like the Great American Beer Festival.
International Recognition: Awards from global competitions that draw entries from the world's best breweries.
The exact awards for 2024 are pending announcements, but based on past performance, the expectation is that Richmond's breweries and cideries will continue to be lauded for their outstanding contributions to the craft of brewing.
Pairing Local Cuisine with Craft Beer
In Richmond, VA, the art of pairing local cuisine with craft beer elevates dining to an experience that caters to the palate. Brunch enthusiasts can delight in the harmonious combination of a citrusy IPA with a classic eggs benedict. The hops contrast nicely with the creamy hollandaise, enhancing the flavors of both the dish and the brew.
For seafood lovers, a light and clean ale is an excellent choice to accompany scallops (What wine goes well with scallops?). The beer's subtle orange citrus notes may accentuate the sweetness of the scallops without overwhelming the delicate taste.
Richmond’s diverse menu offerings also extend to food pairings that complement the robust selection of craft beers. Here’s a brief glance at pairings that bring out the best in both the food and beer:
Acorn and butternut squash purée: This dish pairs well with brews that possess aromas of cloves and coriander, as these spices resonate with the fall flavors of the puree.
Vietnamese cuisine: A bánh mì sandwich would go hand in hand with a punchy, refreshing ale, where the lively carbonation cuts through the richness of the sandwich.
At local breweries, one might also find brewpub features offering authentic dishes that possess names as compelling as the beers they accompany. It’s recommended that one experiences the balance of flavors themselves, as the brewmasters and chefs collaborate to highlight Richmond's culinary diversity.
Finally, for a more approachable pairing, a Blonde Ale can be the perfect complement to any number of casual fare, from burgers to salads, thanks to its mild and versatile flavor profile. Richmond's craft beer scene is a testament to its commitment to creativity and quality, delivering pairings that are sure to satisfy both beer aficionados and foodies alike.
Impact of COVID-19 on Richmond’s Beer Scene
The COVID-19 pandemic led to an immediate and visible strain on businesses worldwide, and Richmond's craft beer industry was not exempt from these challenges. The restrictions on social gatherings, coupled with intermittent lockdowns, caused a marked decline in on-premise beer consumption and sales in breweries.
In response to the pandemic measures, local breweries quickly adjusted their business models. Key strategies included boosting off-premise sales through curbside pickups, home deliveries, and ramping up distribution to retail outlets where possible. Richmond's breweries endeavored to adapt to consumer demands, focusing on creating varied and unique beer styles that catered to the surge in at-home consumption.
Business Adaptability: Many breweries innovated to sustain operations. They increased their outdoor seating capacities, when feasible, to meet social distancing guidelines and invested in robust sanitation procedures to ensure customer and staff safety.
Direct-to-Consumer Sales:
Curbside pickup
Delivery services
Online ordering
Despite the turbulence caused by the pandemic, the intrinsic strength and resilience of the craft beer scene in Richmond have been evident. Positive projections indicated a recovery trajectory as breweries prepared to rebound post-pandemic. The industry's capacity to appeal to consumers' pursuit of distinctive and high-quality craft beers has played a significant role in its comeback, demonstrating the community's commitment to supporting local breweries during unprecedented times.
Where to Buy Richmond Craft Beer and Cider
Richmond, Virginia offers a diverse selection of venues for craft beer and cider enthusiasts seeking quality and variety. Local establishments provide an array of options for every palate, from rare finds to local favorites.
Once Upon a Vine stands out as a notable destination, with two strategic locations in Richmond. The store boasts an impressive selection of over 1,100 different beers and emphasizes customer service.
Northwest Location: 4009 MacArthur Avenue | 804-726-9463
Southwest Location: 2817 Hathaway Road | 804-864-9463
For a more focused collection, Fastop Specialty Beer Store has garnered recommendations for its craft beer selection.
In the heart of downtown, beer aficionados can explore Capital Ale House, known for its extensive lineup of both local brews and international selections. They have repeatedly been recognized for their quality offerings and dedication to the craft beer scene.
Capital Ale House Location: Multiple addresses, including a central downtown spot
For those seeking merchandise and beers from a renowned brewer, Stone Company Store offers Stone Brewing's craft beers, including special releases and branded goods.
Lastly, large retailers like Total Wine & More provide a vast variety of craft beer and cider, ensuring that patrons can almost always find something to satisfy their tastes.
Richmond's craft beer and cider scene is interwoven with the city's history, reflecting over 150 years of brewing tradition. This robust industry has placed the city on the map as a must-visit destination for discerning drinkers from around the world.
Day Trips and Regional Attractions
Richmond's vibrant craft beer culture extends beyond its borders, touching nearby towns and enriching their appeal as destinations. These regional spots offer unique local flavors and are well-suited for day trips.
Charlottesville Brewing Scene
Charlottesville, an hour's drive from Richmond, is not only known for its historic landmarks but also its emerging craft beer scene. Beer enthusiasts can find an array of breweries that offer a diverse selection of locally crafted beers.
Breweries to Visit:
South Street Brewery: Known for Session Lagers.
Champion Brewing Company: Praised for Fruit Basket IPA.
Ashland and Lakeside Breweries
Less than 20 miles from Richmond, Ashland and the Lakeside area provide a small-town feel with a distinct taste in craft brewing.
Highlights:
Center of the Universe Brewing: Offers a staple lager, Chin Music.
Final Gravity Brewing Co.: Famous for their Venus Rising Double IPA.
Petersburg Craft Beer Spots
Petersburg, roughly 25 miles south of Richmond, presents a scene ripe for exploration with breweries that boast unique Virginian charm.
Petersburg Breweries:
Trapezium Brewing Co.: Celebrated for the Lucky 47 White Ale.
Amitié Brewing Company: Their Smooth Sailing chocolate stout draws locals and visitors alike.
Conclusion
Richmond's craft beer scene has evolved into a vibrant and diverse hub, reflecting a blend of tradition and innovation. With a wide array of breweries such as the historic Legend Brewing Co., which paved the way, to newer establishments offering a modern twist on classic brews, the city caters to all palates.
Visitors can savor Hardywood Park Craft Brewery's live music events or plan a tour that introduces the city's finest beers. Local Stone beers stand as a testament to the area's integration of national craft beer influences. Those interested in experimental options might enjoy offerings like the Tangerine Express Hazy IPA or explore the creativity of canned margaritas and bottled seltzers.
A trip to Richmond is incomplete without experiencing the accompanying food trucks that often station themselves at brewery sites. It provides a balanced experience for foodies and beer enthusiasts alike.
For those who prioritize exclusivity and flair, Richmond offers an exciting beer tour. Whether seeking a cool space to relax or a festive ambience with regional performers, the city's brewery culture is as inviting as it is varied. Richmond confidently stands as a premier destination for anyone looking to explore the rich tapestry of Virginia craft beers.
