September 4, 2026

Four Reasons to Celebrate Virginia Spirits Month

September is Virginia Spirits Month, a celebration of the commonwealth’s 400-plus-year distilling tradition. Today, more than 80 distilleries continue that legacy by producing award-winning spirits enjoyed across Virginia and beyond.

Whether you’re a Virginia Spirits connoisseur or have yet to explore our burgeoning distilling scene, this September is the perfect time to start.

A “New Era of Virginia Spirits” is here, with new laws expanding tasting opportunities, the first Virginia Spirits App, the biggest Sale-A-Bration yet and a flagship event that takes us all to victory lane. Here are four reasons why you should celebrate all the New Era has to offer this September.

1. The Times (& Distillery Experiences) They Are A-Changin’

For decades, and even more so in the past 10 years, Virginia distilleries have been offering up the full experience. From educational tours and events to on-site food and lodging accommodations, Virginia Spirits isn’t a pit stop; it’s the destination.

As of July 1, 2026, things are getting even better. New Virginia legislation has opened the door to more immersive tasting, cocktail and food experiences when you visit your favorite distilleries. The primary change increases the daily on-site consumption limit from 3 ounces to 6 ounces per guest. While distillery offerings vary, as you’re out and about, you may see:

Expanded spirit tasting flights
Larger and more thoughtful cocktail menus
Guided whiskey, gin and rum tastings
Spirit and food pairing experiences, as well as more food options to choose from
Educational distillery tours and tastings
More opportunities to sample a distillery’s complete portfolio

2. The Virginia Spirits App Offers Endless Exploration

Building off all your favorite VirginiaSpirits.org features, including the distillery map, events, cocktails and trails, the first dedicated mobile app for iPhone and Android users puts interactive exploration at your fingertips.

Browse distilleries and plan your next adventure without leaving the app using pre-built “Trails” curated around themes, regions and unique experiences or the customizable “My Trails” feature. Once you’re there, head to “Passports” to check in at eligible distilleries, earn points and redeem for special rewards.

If you’re just curious and want to discover events happening near you, cocktail inspiration or new products to try, you can find it all in the app.

Wherever the road takes you, consider the Virginia Spirits App your new guide.

3. The Virginia ABC Sale-A-Bration Is Back & Bigger Than Ever

All September long, 220+ unique Virginia-made products (from 43 different brands) are offered at 20% off in distillery tasting rooms and Virginia ABC locations across the state. What does that mean for you?

Stock up on your favorite bottles!
Round out your home bar with staple spirits across each category.
Get a jump on holiday hosting and gifting to get you through the rest of the year.
Take advantage of lower prices to try something new or get out of your comfort zone.
Seek out award-winning, limited-edition or small-batch bottles at a fraction of the cost. P.S. – That includes $25 off the Virginia Spirits 250th Celebration Trio Pack featuring three 375mL bottles: Botanical Gin (90 Proof), Aged Rum (105 Proof) and Four-Grain Whiskey (120 Proof) created by nine top Virginia distilleries.

Shop 20% off all month long*

Whiskey

Bourbon

Gin

Vodka

Rum

brandy

Moonshine

Cocktails

*Select virginia-made spirits

4. Virginia Spirits Are Off to the Races

Start your engines for a one-night-only celebration of Virginia spirits and racing history.

Hosted by the Virginia Distillers Association in partnership with the Virginia Spirits Board, Virginia Distilled takes over the Virginia Museum of History & Culture on Saturday, September 12. Inspired by the museum’s new NASCAR exhibit, the evening brings together the people, flavors and stories driving Virginia spirits forward.

Tickets start at just $55, with designated driver options available, and include access to:

The LIVE, in-person Virginia Cocktail Games Finale, when you’ll meet the six finalists, sample their cocktails and cast your vote for the Cocktail of the Year! Once tallied with professional judges’ scoring, the winner will be unveiled at the conclusion of the event.
Richmond Raceway pace car, Richmond Region Antique Automotive Club of America’s 1930’s cars on display
After-hours access to museum galleries including limited-time exhibitions, Revolutionary Allies and Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619-1865
Live music by The Slack Family Bluegrass Band
Some of Richmond’s best local food trucks (food available for purchase)

Unlimited samples from the following distilleries (subject to change):
Two master class discussions led by distillers and historians
- How Virginia Spirits celebrates America’s 250th: A discussion of the statewide collaboration that led to the Virginia Spirits 250th Celebration Trio Pack (available for sampling, too!)
- The History of Moonshining in Virginia: How this tradition helped birth and shape today’s modern NASCA

Want to make an extra special evening of it?

Upgrade to a VIP ticket for early entry, access to the VIP Lounge and an interactive opportunity to sharpen your home bartending skills with an expert mixologist. Learn more and secure your spot below.

Virginia Distilled is just the beginning

Keep the celebration going throughout Virginia Spirits Month by checking out dozens of events happening at participating distilleries and destinations across the commonwealth. From live music to food pairings and festivals, the real party starts in September.

Raise a glass to the New Era of Virginia Spirits this Virginia Spirits Month! From new experiences to savings and unique events, there’s no better time to support local craft spirits and the makers behind every bottle.