Nestled on 100 acres in the foothills of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia Distillery Company stands as a crown jewel of the Nelson 29 Craft Beverage Trail. This isn’t just any distillery—it’s the most awarded single malt whisky distillery in America, offering visitors an immersive experience that combines world-class whisky production with Virginia hospitality and stunning mountain scenery.
The Ultimate Whisky Experience Awaits
When you visit Virginia Distillery Company, you’re not just tasting whisky—you’re embarking on The Virginia Whisky Experience, a comprehensive journey through the art and science of American single malt whisky production. This unique experience transforms what could be a simple tasting into an educational adventure that engages all your senses.
What Makes Your Visit Special
The Whisky Museum: Start your journey in the 1,000-square-foot museum where vintage distilling equipment and informative displays tell the story of single malt whisky. Watch an original video that highlights the origins of single malt whisky in Scotland and how whisky-making traditions were brought to Virginia, creating the perfect foundation for understanding what makes this distillery unique.
Behind-the-Scenes Production Tour: Get an up-close look at the whisky-making process in action. You’ll see the impressive copper stills, learn about the distillation process, and witness how 100% malted barley and mountain spring-fed water transform into liquid gold. The sights and smells of whisky production create an unforgettable sensory experience.
The Cask House Experience: The crown jewel of any visit is the cask house, where hundreds of barrels age Virginia’s finest whisky. The spirit-filled air creates an atmosphere that whisky lovers describe as intoxicating in the best possible way. Here, you’ll learn about the aging process and how Virginia’s dynamic climate—with hot summers and cool winters—creates a unique maturation environment that allows whisky to age faster than in Scotland.
Award-Winning Whisky You Can’t Find Anywhere Else
Virginia Distillery Company has earned its reputation as America’s most awarded single malt distillery through dedication to quality and innovation. Their flagship Courage & Conviction American Single Malt represents the pinnacle of American whisky craftsmanship.
What You’ll Taste
Courage & Conviction Flagship: With notes of caramel and butterscotch, this whisky evolves on the palate with hints of bright red fruit, raspberry, cocoa, barrel spice and vanilla. The finish is creamy and exceptionally smooth.
Bourbon Cask Finished: Features aromas of vanilla, shortbread, and cedar, with flavors of orange oil, toasted coconut, and graham cracker. The soft finish lingers with cinnamon and mild barrel spice.
Sherry Cask Finished: Rich and complex, aged in three different types of sherry casks (Fino, Oloroso, Pedro Ximenez) for deep, wine-influenced flavors.
Cuvée Wine Cask Finished: A unique offering aged in re-coopered premium European red wine casks, creating distinctive flavor profiles you won’t find elsewhere.
Tasting Options for Every Palate
Whisky Flights: Choose from carefully curated flights that showcase different cask finishes and production methods. Each tasting includes expert guidance to help you understand the nuances of American single malt whisky.
Craft Cocktails: For those who prefer their whisky mixed, enjoy seasonally-inspired cocktails made with Virginia Distillery Company’s spirits and locally sourced ingredients. The Virginia Julep has become a particular favorite, featuring mint simple syrup, lime juice, seltzer, and Virginia Highland Malt Whisky.
Customized Tastings: Whether you’re a whisky novice or an experienced connoisseur, the knowledgeable staff can tailor your tasting experience to your preferences and experience level.
The Perfect Setting for Relaxation
Cozy Indoor Atmosphere
The spacious visitors center creates the perfect environment for whisky appreciation. The people here are very very nice and the tasting room is very cozy and welcoming, with the big fireplace and comfy chairs that make you want to settle in for the afternoon. The beautiful wood interior and warm atmosphere create an inviting space where conversations flow as smoothly as the whisky.
Stunning Outdoor Spaces
The outdoor patio and stone terrace offer breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing the ideal backdrop for sipping whisky and watching Virginia’s natural beauty unfold. The wrap-around porch and outdoor seating areas are perfect for groups looking to extend their visit and enjoy the mountain air.
Perfect for All Occasions
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning a romantic getaway, or just exploring Virginia’s craft beverage scene, Virginia Distillery Company offers flexible spaces that can accommodate everything from intimate tastings to larger gatherings of up to 100 people.
Educational and Entertaining
Expert Guidance
The specially trained Whisky Experience Guides don’t just pour drinks—they share stories, explain processes, and help you understand what makes American single malt whisky special. Their knowledge and passion for the craft enhance every aspect of your visit.
Hands-On Learning
This isn’t passive sightseeing. You’ll engage with the whisky-making process, learn about the impact of Virginia’s climate on aging, and understand why location matters in whisky production. The fact that it’s local and something that people can see and touch and feel makes the experience both educational and memorable.
Group-Friendly Experiences
For groups of eight or more, special arrangements ensure everyone gets the full experience. The distillery accommodates everything from corporate events to birthday celebrations, making it a perfect stop for any group exploring the Nelson 29 trail.
Planning Your Visit
Hours and Availability
- Wednesday-Saturday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Monday-Tuesday: Closed
Tour and Tasting Options
- Walk-in tastings available during operating hours
- Guided tours with whisky and cocktail sampling
- Private group experiences for parties of 8+
- Educational presentations about American single malt whisky
What to Expect
- Tour duration: Approximately 75 minutes
- Tasting room: Comfortable seating with fireplace
- Outdoor areas: Mountain views and fresh air
- Museum: Interactive displays and video presentations
- Production facility: Working distillery tours
- Cask house: Barrel aging demonstrations
Why Virginia Distillery Company Defines the Nelson 29 Experience
Unmatched Quality
As America’s most awarded single malt distillery, Virginia Distillery Company represents the pinnacle of American whisky craftsmanship. Every bottle tells the story of Virginia’s unique climate, local ingredients, and passionate craftsmanship.
Comprehensive Experience
This isn’t just a tasting—it’s an education in whisky appreciation. From the museum to the production floor to the cask house, every element is designed to deepen your understanding and appreciation of fine whisky.
Stunning Setting
The combination of beautiful indoor spaces and breathtaking outdoor views creates the perfect environment for whisky appreciation. This is an amazing new attraction between Charlottesville and Lynchburg, in the beautiful mountains of Nelson County!
Perfect Nelson 29 Centerpiece
Located conveniently along the Nelson 29 trail, Virginia Distillery Company offers the kind of destination experience that makes the journey worthwhile. Whether you’re a whisky enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates quality craftsmanship, this distillery delivers an unforgettable experience.
Make It Your Nelson 29 Destination
Virginia Distillery Company isn’t just a stop on the Nelson 29 trail—it’s a destination that showcases everything special about Virginia’s craft beverage scene. The combination of world-class whisky, educational experiences, beautiful settings, and warm hospitality creates memories that last long after your visit.
Whether you’re exploring the Nelson 29 trail for the first time or returning to discover new releases, Virginia Distillery Company offers an experience that rewards both curiosity and connoisseurship. In a world of mass production, this distillery proves that patience, passion, and attention to detail still matter.
Ready to experience America’s most awarded single malt distillery? Visit Virginia Distillery Company’s website to book tours, check current releases, and plan your Nelson 29 adventure. With their comprehensive whisky experience and stunning Blue Ridge Mountain setting, it’s a destination that truly embodies the spirit of Virginia craftsmanship.
