November 10, 2025
When it comes to honoring those who have served, one of the best ways to show your support is by celebrating veteran-owned businesses. Virginia is home to exceptional distilleries founded by veterans who bring the same dedication, precision and pride from their service to the craft of spirits-making across the commonwealth.
These veteran-owned distilleries go beyond producing award-winning spirits, they embody Virginia’s deep-rooted distilling heritage and a continued commitment to excellence. Whether you’re visiting a tasting room or picking up a bottle to share, Veterans Day is the perfect time to raise a glass to their service and their spirits.
Celebrate the holiday by exploring these distilleries across the commonwealth.
Founded by Alex Colby, veteran, firefighter and paramedic
This veteran- and first responder-owned distillery crafts artisanal, small-batch spirits in beautiful Luray. Alex and his wife opened Blue Shepherd Spirits in 2022 during Alex’s firefighting career, inspired by their love of Virginia’s beverage scene. Visit their tasting room for a handcrafted cocktail and meet the namesake Bruce, the family’s beloved Blue Shepherd dog.
Co-owned by Tim Brady, U.S. Air Force veteran
After retiring from the Air Force as a master sergeant, Tim Brady became the third partner at Brady’s Distillery. During his career, he served on the Air Force Inspector General team and earned multiple Meritorious Service Medals. Founded in 2020, Brady’s Distillery offers meticulously crafted spirits, from bourbon and whiskey to vodka and rum, designed to satisfy everyone from the seasoned enthusiast to the curious newcomer.
Founded by Randy Thomas, retired O-5 U.S. Navy commander
Located inside The Vanguard Brewpub and Distillery in Hampton Roads, Caiseal Beer & Spirits Co. was founded by Randy Thomas following his retirement as a Navy commander in 2017. Today, the restaurant and distillery is a local favorite for live music, quality spirits and chef-inspired dishes. Stop by to sip craft cocktails, enjoy local entertainment and experience the spirit of coastal Virginia.
Founded by David Emmons, service-disabled veteran
After 25 years with Naval Special Warfare Teams on the east coast, where he attained the rank of master chief, David Emmons retired and founded Deep Creek Distilling. A service-disabled veteran, Emmons and his late business partner, Royall Ferguson, have spent the last decade crafting award-winning spirits infused with passion and precision. Visit their tasting room to experience Deep Creek’s commitment to traditional distilling.
Founded by Michael Paluzzi, U.S. Air Force veteran
Head of production: Christian Paluzzi, U.S. Air Force veteran
This family-run distillery is built on passion for craftsmanship and community. Founder Michael Paluzzi, an Air Force veteran and award-winning distiller, operates Falls Church Distillers with his two sons, including Christian, a third-generation Air Force veteran who served six years on active duty. Located just outside the nation’s capital, its spirits can be found in ABC stores and restaurants across Virginia and Washington, D.C.
Founded by Chris Saufley, retired U.S. Navy executive officer
Chris Saufley founded Highlands Distilling Company to celebrate the heritage of Southwest Virginia, the Blue Ridge Highlands and the service of military members and first responders. Each small-batch spirit is named in honor of those who have served at sea and history that has shaped the region. Stop by the Marion tasting room to sample its Navy Strength Gin and other exceptional spirits that pay tribute.
Founded by Bill Karlson and John O’Mara, U.S. Navy veterans
Bill Karlson and John O’Mara met as midshipmen at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and have been lifelong friends ever since. Both sailed in the merchant marine and served in the U.S. Navy Reserve before founding KO Distilling, where they craft small-batch spirits from local ingredients. Their Manassas distillery has become a community gathering place, where visitors can enjoy a glass of Bare Knuckle Straight Bourbon Whiskey and learn about the distilling process from mash to bottle.
Co-owned by John Davenport, veteran
Powhatan County’s first legal distillery, Three Crosses Distilling Co. is proudly veteran-owned and woman-run. Founders John and Michelle Davenport bring a shared passion for Virginia spirits and Appalachian heritage to every batch. John oversees production with precision and care, while Michelle lends her love of bourbon and hospitality to the tasting room experience. Visitors can enjoy handcrafted spirits and a locally inspired menu in this cozy, welcoming space.
