Category: Cocktails

January 28, 2026

Pick Your Team: Virginia-Made Super Bowl Cocktails

Patriots or Seahawks?

When the Patriots and Seahawks face off on Super Bowl Sunday (Feb. 8, 2026), the contrast couldn’t be clearer. One side brings legacy, precision and polish. The other delivers bold plays, relentless defense and unmatched energy.

No matter who you’re rooting for, your game-day drinks should match the moment. From bright, confident cocktails to bold, spirit-forward pours, these Patriots- and Seahawks-inspired drinks are built to bring big-game flavor and local flair to your watch party.

Before kickoff, make your pick below and head straight to your team’s cocktails.

New England Patriots Cocktails

The post-dynasty reset is perhaps shorter-lived than we thought. After a dismal 4-13 season in 2024, a young quarterback and a no-nonsense coach have the Patriots right back in the Super Bowl conversation — playing for a chance at a record seventh Lombardi Trophy. Known for discipline and consistency, Patriots-inspired drinks should be just as refined: clean, balanced and confidently classic.

Underdogs

You wouldn’t normally associate the New England Patriots franchise with the word “underdog,” but the Seahawks are 3.5 point favorites to win this one. Some might call it a weak strength of schedule or luck, but the Patriots are hoping to have the last laugh.

Here’s a whiskey-sour inspired cocktail that often is overlooked in the whiskey category, but it’s just as bright as the Patriots’ Super Bowl chances.

Ingredients

2 oz Virginia bourbon
¾ oz fresh lemon juice
¾ oz simple syrup
(Optional) ½ oz egg white or aquafaba
Garnish: Lemon twist or cherry

Instructions

Dry shake all ingredients if using egg white, then shake with ice. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.

The Young Gun

Calm, cool, collected and ready for the spotlight, New England has a new star under center. This QB-inspired cocktail is built on execution and finesse, with crisp flavor and a clean, classic presentation. One sip in, and you just might find yourself chanting, “I love Drake Maye.”

Ingredients

2 oz Virginia gin or vodka
¾ oz fresh lime juice
¾ oz simple syrup
Garnish: Lime wheel or expressed lime peel

Instructions

Shake with ice and strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.

Red, White & Proof

You can’t build a Patriots game-day cocktail without tipping your hat to red, white and blue. This pour brings patriotic color to the glass while keeping the focus on balance, structure and a Virginia-made spirit at the center.

Ingredients

2 oz Virginia whiskey or brandy
¾ oz fresh lemon juice
½ oz simple syrup
½ oz cranberry juice or red wine float
Garnish: Red and blue fruits

Instructions

Shake whiskey, lemon and simple syrup with ice. Strain over ice and gently float cranberry juice or wine.

The Game Manager

If the Patriots’ AFC Championship appearance taught us anything, it’s not always about flash, it’s about getting the job done before the clock runs out. If this sounds like your style, you’re looking for something reliable, timeless and fundamental: the Old Fashioned.

Ingredients

2 oz Virginia bourbon or rye
¼ oz simple syrup
2 dashes aromatic bitters
Garnish: Orange peel

Instructions

Stir with ice and strain over a large cube in a rocks glass.

Seattle Seahawks Cocktails

Defined by strength, intensity and a lockdown defense, Seahawks-inspired drinks lean bolder and more complex. The past few years have been filled with change, but a culture of efficiency across all three phases has quietly launched a new chapter — bringing Seattle back to the Super Bowl for the first time since its hard-fought matchup against the Patriots more than a decade ago. There may be a hint of revenge in the air, but there are no hard feelings in the glass with these cocktails.

The Legion

The 2010’s Legion of Boom (LOB) is a hard group to replace, but this year’s defensive squad plays with that a level of toughness some might say only comes from Seattle. Inspired by a stout defense, this drink is structured, complex and unapologetically bold.

Ingredients

1½ oz Virginia rye whiskey or aged rum
¾ oz sweet vermouth
¾ oz amaro (or Campari for extra bite)
Garnish: Orange peel

Instructions

Stir with ice and strain into a coupe or over a large cube.

The Journeyman

Sam Darnold has made several stops during his time in the NFL, but in his first season in Seattle, he’s clearly found his groove. At times steady, at times a true gunslinger, his game calls for a cocktail with contrast — where sweetness meets strength and nothing feels accidental.

Ingredients

1½ oz Virginia whiskey
¾ oz Drambuie or honey-based liqueur
1 dash aromatic bitters
Garnish: Lemon peel

Instructions

Stir with ice and strain over a large cube.

Blue Crush

Seahawks fans don’t do subtle. From the sea of blue and green in the stands to the noise they bring every defensive snap, the energy is unmistakable. This crowd-pleasing cocktail brings that same pop (of color) to your home watch party, adding a splash of flair to a classic Tom Collins.

Ingredients

2 oz Virginia gin or vodka
¾ oz lemon juice
½ oz simple syrup
Splash of blue curaçao or butterfly pea tea
Club soda
Garnish: Lime wheel or mint

Instructions

Shake spirit, lemon, simple syrup and your blue ingredient of choice lightly with ice. Strain into a tall glass over ice and top with soda.

The 12s Pour

Let’s be honest, if you’re part of the 12s (the franchise’s affectionate name for its fans), you’re not stepping away from the screen once kickoff hits. This refreshing, make-ahead batch cocktail keeps the pours coming without missing a second of the action. Adaptable with your favorite Virginia spirit and built for fans who bring the noise.

Ingredients

2 cups Virginia whiskey, rum, or vodka
1 cup fresh citrus juice (lemon or orange)
¾ cup simple syrup
2 cups ginger beer or club soda
Citrus wheels for the pitcher

Instructions

Combine everything except soda ahead of time and chill. Add soda just before serving.

No Matter Who Wins, Virginia Spirits Take the Field

Whether you’re raising a glass to Patriots determination or Seahawks dominance, these game-day drinks highlight the versatility and craftsmanship of Virginia-made spirits. From bright kickoff cocktails to bold fourth-quarter sippers, there’s a pour for every fan and every moment of the game.

So pick your side, stock the bar and get ready for Super Bowl Sunday — Virginia style.

December 11, 2025

Pitcher Perfect Holidays: Easy Winter Cocktails for a Crowd

Holiday Hosting Made Easy with Virginia Spirits

There’s nothing quite like gathering with friends or family during the holidays, and having a big batch of a delicious cocktail ready to go makes entertaining a breeze. Using Virginia-made spirits adds a special touch, letting guests toast the season with a local pour.

Whether you’re hosting a small gathering by the fire or a lively celebration, these five seasonal recipes scale beautifully for holiday celebrations. Want even more ideas? Check out our full cocktail catalog below.

Wassail Cocktail Recipe

Nothing says cozy and classic like a mulled cider punch.

Ingredients

Makes 8-10 servings.

2 quarts apple cider
1½ cups freshly squeezed orange juice
½ cup lemon juice, 3–4 cinnamon sticks
2–3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon ground ginger
1–2 cups of your favorite Virginia spiced rum

Instructions

Combine the cider, juices, spices and sugar in a large pot and simmer (do not boil) for two hours. Remove from heat, stir in the rum, then ladle into mugs. Garnish with a seasonal cinnamon stick, fresh orange peel or warming star anise.

Merry & Bright Cocktail Recipe

Bright, tropical and packing a “punch,” this one is ideal for New Year’s parties or a holiday brunch. It’ll have you dreaming of warmer days.

Ingredients

Just one serving, so multiply proportions by the number of guests.

2 oz Belmont Farm Kopper Kettle Dark Chai Spiced Rum
½ oz Virginia Lightning Cherry Moonshine
2 oz pineapple juice
2 oz orange juice

Instructions

Combine ingredients in a punch bowl or large pitcher, stir and serve chilled (or over ice) for an easy, festive crowd-pleaser.

P.S. Belmont Farm happens to have another recipe on deck that incorporates its Kopper Kettle Bourbon. This “Cream of the Crop” cocktail is heavy on the sweet and indulgent, so be sure to check it out for the perfect holiday night-cap.

Jingle Juice Cocktail Recipe

Bring the party with this show stopper!. A festive, flavorful cocktail balancing sweet, tart and herbal notes.

Ingredients

Single serve, scale as needed!

1½ oz Virginia-Highland Whisky
1 oz cranberry-sage simple syrup* (make ahead – it’s worth it!)
½ oz fresh lemon juice
½ oz fresh lime juice
½ oz orange liqueur
Garnish with fresh red cranberries!

Instructions

Mix the whisky, syrup, citrus juices and liqueur. Serve it on the rocks (glasses optionally sugar-rimmed), stir gently and garnish by the glass.

*Cranberry-sage simple syrup is made by simmering equal parts sugar and water with whole cranberries, cinnamon sticks, sage leaves — steep, muddle and strain.

Rye Spiced Cider Cocktail Recipe

A simple, warming sip — perfect for smaller gatherings or as a mellow apéritif.

Ingredients

Single or a few servings, batch to your heart’s desire!

1 oz Bare Knuckle American Rye Whiskey
2 pinches pumpkin-pie spice
4 oz apple cider (locally sourced, of course)

Instructions

Stir the rye and pumpkin-pie spice until smooth, then add the cider. Serve chilled over ice, or gently warm it up on the stove for a cozy hot drink.

White Christmas Vodkarita Cocktail Recipe

A creamy, winter-twist on a margarita! This cocktail is ideal for holiday parties when you want something a bit whimsical.

Ingredients

Again, just for you, so make the proper adjustments.

1 oz Waterman Spirits Organic Vodka
⅕ oz orange liqueur
juice of ½ lime
2 oz coconut milk
¼ oz cream of coconut

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a blender, then pour over ice. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary and a few cranberries for a festive touch.

Make It Virginia

No matter your holiday plans, these Virginia-made, batchable cocktails make entertaining smooth, simple and seasonal. So mix up a pitcher, ladle it into mugs (or serve over ice) and raise a toast to good company and even better libations. Here’s to a (Virginia-) spirited holiday season!

Holiday Egg Nog

Reservoir Distillery

Alexander

Ironclad Distillery Co.

Jingle Julep

Belmont Farm Distillery

The First Landing Cup, a first-of-its-kind competition just for Virginia-made spirits, shines a spotlight on the craftsmanship and excellence found across Virginia’s distilling community.

The inaugural competition took place in April, in which world-class judges gathered to blindly evaluate and score each entry on aroma, taste, mouthfeel, finish and overall balance. Click here to learn more about the competition.

Out of 101 award-winning spirits, 11 earned top honors with scores of 90+ to claim a coveted gold medal. From bold, heritage-driven whiskeys and brandies to inventive expressions like oolong tea gin, hot honey rye and even salsa-inspired vodka, this remarkable lineup sets the stage for cocktails that are as refined as they are unexpected.

We’ve created a unique recipe for each gold medalist — perfect for everything from the first toast of the night to the perfect nightcap. Keep reading to learn how to incorporate the best of Virginia into your next glass.

You can also browse each of the recipes featuring First Landing Cup winners here.

Chocolate Old Fashioned

Presented by Virginia Distillery Company, featuring Courage & Conviction Signature Malt

Courage & Conviction Signature Malt is bursting with aromas of caramel and butterscotch and features a vibrant palate of bright red fruit, raspberry, cocoa, warm barrel spice and soft vanilla. Its creamy, exceptionally smooth finish makes it an ideal base for a chocolate Old Fashioned. The cocoa and spice notes complement the richness of maple syrup, while the bright fruit and vanilla harmonize beautifully with Angostura Chocolate Bitters, creating a layered, indulgent cocktail.

Ingredients:

2 oz. Virginia Distillery Company Courage & Conviction
0.25 oz. Maple Syrup
4 dashes Angostura Chocolate Bitters
Garnish: Orange Peel + Shaved Chocolate
Glassware: Rocks
Ice: Rocks

Simply, add Courage & Conviction Signature Malt Whisky, maple syrup and the Angostura chocolate bitters to a mixing glass with ice and stir. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.

For an added layer of extravagance, express orange oil over the top and garnish with the peel and shaved chocolate.

Brandy Old House

Presented by Old House Vineyards, featuring Estate Brandy XO

Rich and refined, the Estate Brandy XO brings depth and complexity to the Brandy Old House cocktail with inviting aromas of dried fig and toasted almond. It features smooth layers of baked apple, honey and warm spice, complemented by a long finish of cocoa and oak on the palate. When paired with Angostura Orange Bitters, the citrus accentuates the brandy’s fruit and spice, creating a bright yet elegant cocktail.

Ingredients:

2 oz. Old House Vineyards Estate Brandy XO
2 dashes Angostura Orange Bitters
Garnish with Orange Slice and Cherry

Note: No additional sugar needed; the sweetness of the Brandy will make for the perfect cocktail. Just add brandy and bitters to a rocks glass with ice and stir to combine. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.

Mystic Grove

Presented by Mt. Defiance Distillery, featuring Mt. Defiance Absinthe Supérieure

The Mt. Defiance Absinthe Supérieure is the star of this cocktail with its assertive anise character that is rich with fennel and black licorice, further elevated by bright citrus and a minty finish. The bold botanical profile cuts through and defines the blend, lending depth and complexity to the lighter elements.

Ingredients:

1.5 oz. Mt. Defiance Gin Nouveau
0.75 oz. St. Germain
0.5 oz. Simple Syrup
0.125 oz. Lemon Juice (strained)
0.125 oz. Mt. Defiance Absinthe Supérieure

Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice, then shake and strain into chilled coupe glass. Finish with a fresh squeeze of strained lemon juice and garnish with a sprig of fennel.

Salsa Bloody Mary

Presented by MurLarkey Distilled Spirits, featuring MurLarkey Distilled Spirits Salsa Borracha Vodka

Packed with 15 all-natural botanicals, fresh garden veggies and just the right kick of spice, Salsa Borracha Vodka takes a Bloody Mary to a whole new level. Think bold, briny flavor with an extra punch of savory depth — like your favorite Bloody Mary got a chef’s table upgrade. Add a squeeze of lemon and lime, a cool cucumber garnish and a zesty tajin rim, and you’ve got a Salsa Bloody Mary that’s fresh, spicy and downright impossible to sip just once.

Ingredients:

1.5 oz. MurLarkey Distilled Spirits Salsa Borracha Vodka
4 oz. your preferred Bloody Mary Mix

Grab a shaker and add ice, Salsa Borracha Vodka and your favorite Bloody Mary mix. Shake well. Pour into a tajin-rimmed glass and garnish with lemon, lime and cucumber.

Cucumber Basil Smash

Presented by MurLarkey Distilled Spirits, featuring MurLarkey Imagination Gin

The MurLarkey Imagination Gin opens with bright citrus notes that gracefully transition into soft, nuanced botanicals, finishing with delicate juniper undertones. When paired with limeade, white cranberry juice, fresh lime and basil, the gin’s vibrant citrus and herbal notes shine, complementing the tart-sweet profile of the drink.

Ingredients:

2 oz. Limeade
2 oz. White Cranberry Juice
1.5 oz MurLarkey Imagination Gin
2 slices Lime
3 leaves Basil

Shake the ingredients over ice and pour into a tall glass. Garnish with a basil sprig, lime slice and cucumber slice.

Monticello Manhattan

Presented by Ragged Branch Distillery, featuring Ragged Branch Straight Rye Whiskey

The Ragged Branch Straight Rye Whiskey, with its slightly spicy character and grain-forward depth, is the perfect backbone for a cocktail that layers warmth and complexity. The burnt sugar and dried fruit undertones complement the rich sweetness of the maple syrup and amaretto, while the rye’s boldness balances the velvety notes of sweet vermouth. A touch of applewood liquid smoke ties it all together, amplifying the whiskey’s natural warmth with a subtle, savory edge.

Ingredients:

1.5 oz. Ragged Branch Straight Rye Whiskey
0.3 oz. Maple Syrup
0.5 oz. Amaretto
0.7 oz. Sweet Vermouth
1 drop Applewood Liquid Smoke

Add rye whiskey, maple syrup, amaretto, sweet vermouth and applewood liquid smoke (yes, this really pulls it all together) into a mixing glass with ice and stir well until chilled. Then, strain it into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with an orange peel or cherry.

Virago Blanc Martini

Presented by Virago Spirits, featuring Virago Modern Gin with Oolong Tea

Virago Modern Gin, with its bold Szechuan pepper and aromatic Oolong tea notes, lays the groundwork for a cocktail full of nuance and character. Dolin Blanc adds a soft, floral sweetness that balances the gin’s bright lemon and grapefruit zest, while grapefruit bitters amplify its citrus edge. Hints of sweet anise and a long, savory finish bring it all together, creating a cocktail that’s both elegant and refreshingly unexpected.

Ingredients:

2 oz. Virago Modern Gin
0.5 oz. Dolin Blanc
1 Dash Grapefruit Bitters
Lemon Peel

Throw all ingredients into a glass, add ice and stir. Strain into a chilled Martini glass, expressing and garnishing with a lemon peel.

Lemon-Spice Custard Cookie

Presented by Catoctin Creek, featuring Catoctin Creek Hot Honey Rye Whiskey

Catoctin Creek’s Hot Honey Rye brings a rich honeyed aroma and velvety mouthfeel, setting the stage for a cocktail that’s equal parts indulgent and bold. Its natural sweetness melds seamlessly with the zesty warmth of ginger liqueur, while lemon curd adds a silky, citrusy lift. Just as the flavors settle, the rye’s peppery heat delivers a lively kick, and black walnut bitters anchor the sip with deep, earthy complexity.

Ingredients:

1.75 oz. Hot Honey Rye Whiskey
0.5 oz. Ginger Liqueur or Ginger Syrup
0.75 oz. Lemon Curd
1-2 dashes Black Walnut Bitters
Garnish with Lemon Peel and Dried Ginger

Combine all ingredients and shake well. Strain the mix into a coupe and garnish with a lemon peel and dried ginger (only if you have it). Bonus points if you have a gingerbread or citrus tart ready to pair.

Midship Man-hattan

Presented by KO Distilling, featuring Distiller’s Reserve Bottled-in-Bond Rye

Distiller’s Reserve Bottled-in-Bond Rye Whisky has warm vanilla and caramel notes that provide a rich, smooth foundation that beautifully balances the spirit’s natural spice. Subtle hints of baking spices and apricot complement the citrusy, floral complexity of Amaro Montenegro, while lemon juice adds a crisp, refreshing edge. The angostura and orange bitters in this cocktail enhance the rye’s spicy backbone and lift the fruit and herbal nuances, creating a cocktail that’s layered, bright and grounded in classic rye fashion.

Ingredients:

1 oz. Distiller’s Reserve Bottled-in-Bond Rye
1 oz. Amaro Montenegro
0.25 oz. Lemon Juice
2 dashes Angostura Bitters
2 dashes Orange Bitters

Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir until it’s well-chilled (usually around 30 seconds), then strain it into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a dried slice of lemon.

Gold Nugget Old Fashioned

Presented by KO Distilling, featuring Distiller’s Reserve Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon

Distiller’s Reserve Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon opens with warm vanilla and transitions seamlessly into layers of caramel, baking spice and dried apricot, making it an ideal match for the zesty kick of ginger simple syrup. The richness of English toffee and toasted almonds adds depth and warmth, while cherry and ginger bitters draw out the fruit and spice elements. A subtle dusting of dark cocoa lingers in the background, grounding the cocktail with a bittersweet finish that’s both bold and beautifully balanced.

Ingredients:

1 oz. Distiller’s Reserve Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon
0.5 oz. Ginger Simple Syrup
2 dashes Cherry Bitters
2 dashes Ginger Bitters

In a rocks glass, combine everything with ice. Stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds to thoroughly chill and slightly dilute the cocktail. Garnish with an orange peel and a candied orange for a gorgeous glass.

Bob Roy

Presented by Caiseal Beer and Spirits Company, featuring Caiseal Peated American Single Malt Whiskey

With bold notes of leather, peat smoke and maple, the Caiseal Peated American Single Malt Whiskey brings a rugged, campfire intensity that pairs perfectly with the deep, herbal sweetness of sweet vermouth. The earthy undertones are enriched by Angostura bitters, which enhance the whiskey’s complexity while adding structure and spice. The result is a smoky, grounded cocktail with just the right touch of maple.

Ingredients:

2 oz. Caiseal Peated American Single Malt Whiskey
0.75 oz. Sweet Vermouth
3 dashes Angostura Bitters

Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice and stir until chilled. Strain and serve neat. Garnish with cherries or lemon twist, if you like.

The First Landing Cup recognizes the best of the best, and we invite you to experience the mastery firsthand. These award-winning spirits are the perfect foundation for your next cocktail, whether you try one of these or elevate your favorite recipe.

Time to get shaking, stirring and straining! As always, please enjoy Virginia Spirits responsibly.

Welcome to the “Make it Virginia-Made” series, where we travel across the commonwealth to visit restaurants serving up Virginia spirits. These top-notch establishments and bartenders have a commitment to quality, local brands, understanding any cocktail — from fruity to sour to spirit-forward — can be Virginia-made. And it not only can be Virginia-made, it can be better Virginia-made.

You may have seen our lively host Henry Hill, Jr., a.k.a. the winner of The 2024 Virginia Cocktail Games, sitting down with a local bartender on our @VaSpirits Instagram. Here, we’re giving you the full download on what you saw and didn’t see during the visit. You’re about to learn about what makes this restaurant so special – so, get comfy and grab a drink – or better yet, head over to Blue Atlas and sip for yourself.

Get to Know Blue Atlas

Blue Atlas has quickly become one of Richmond’s culinary gems since opening in 2020, offering a globally inspired dining experience that feels both adventurous and deeply rooted in respect for ingredients.

Founded by husband-and-wife chefs Rachel and Ben, the restaurant blends Rachel’s extensive world travels with Ben’s classical culinary training, resulting in a menu designed for sharing — just as meals are traditionally enjoyed in many cultures around the globe. Each dish draws inspiration from a different region of the world, encouraging guests to explore diverse flavors while connecting with one another over food meant to spark conversation.

What sets Blue Atlas apart is its focus on sustainability and wellness without compromising on creativity or flavor. With vegetables often taking center stage, Blue Atlas champions a “clean eating” philosophy, crafting dishes that not only taste exceptional but also align with a vision for a healthier planet.

This ethos extends to its bar program, which pairs these globally influenced plates with local spirits, showcasing Virginia’s own craft distillers alongside international flavors. At Blue Atlas, every plate and pour is designed to leave you feeling good — about what you’re eating, who you’re dining with and the planet we all call home.

Who’s Behind the Bar

Meet Ryan Wirt, the creative force behind the bar at Blue Atlas. Before perfecting cocktails, Ryan spent 13 years as a barista and coffee roaster, honing his love for flavor balance and precision — skills that now define his mixology.

Alongside his wife Brittany (whom he met while both of them were behind the bar at a restaurant in Tennessee), he built and ran a mobile cocktail business, crafting custom drinks for weddings and events, before settling in Richmond to shake things up for Blue Atlas guests.

What is a bartending trend you’ve noticed?

“I feel like trends change so much, it’s like a boomerang. Everything comes out and then kind of goes away, and then it comes right back around.

“Personally, I love classics. And I feel like they have made a resurgence. For a while, everybody was getting as crazy as they could [with cocktail recipes]. And now, people go into places and ask for a Manhattan. So, I constantly keep myself abreast of the classic cocktails.”

What’s your opinion on the term bartending vs. mixology?

“We’re not mixologists. We’re just bartenders. When it comes down to it, this job is purely hospitality — it’s to serve whoever’s sitting across from me and make sure that they’re having a great time.

“Yeah, there’s an element of mixing involved with things and getting to know the spirits and the ingredients that you’re working with. But I think that when you start to put really fancy terms on things, it starts to get to some people’s heads. If you want to come in and order a beer and a shot, that’s going to make me happy, right? So, yeah, I’m just a bartender.”

What’s in Your Glass

You’ve pulled up to the restaurant and taken your seat at the bar. If you ask for local, Ryan might just mix up the approachable, yet elevated, Haru Collins.

Ingredients

1.5 Cirrus Vodka
0.5 oz Aperol
1 oz yuzu
0.5 oz green tea syrup
lemon garnish

Add all ingredients, plus ice, to a shaker. Shake until chilled and pour into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a lemon peel.

Sounds (and sips) like the makings of a great night. Please enjoy Virginia Spirits responsibly.

Get to Know Blue Atlas

Who’s Behind the Bar

What is a bartending trend you’ve noticed?

“I feel like trends change so much, it’s like a boomerang. Everything comes out and then kind of goes away, and then it comes right back around.

What’s your opinion on the term bartending vs. mixology?

What’s in Your Glass

You’ve pulled up to the restaurant and taken your seat at the bar. If you ask for local, Ryan might just mix up the approachable, yet elevated, Haru Collins.

Ingredients

1.5 Cirrus Vodka
0.5 oz Aperol
1 oz yuzu
0.5 oz green tea syrup
lemon garnish

Add all ingredients, plus ice, to a shaker. Shake until chilled and pour into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a lemon peel.

Sounds (and sips) like the makings of a great night. Please enjoy Virginia Spirits responsibly.

Get to Know Blue Atlas

Who’s Behind the Bar

What is a bartending trend you’ve noticed?

“I feel like trends change so much, it’s like a boomerang. Everything comes out and then kind of goes away, and then it comes right back around.

What’s your opinion on the term bartending vs. mixology?

What’s in Your Glass

You’ve pulled up to the restaurant and taken your seat at the bar. If you ask for local, Ryan might just mix up the approachable, yet elevated, Haru Collins.

Ingredients

1.5 Cirrus Vodka
0.5 oz Aperol
1 oz yuzu
0.5 oz green tea syrup
lemon garnish

Add all ingredients, plus ice, to a shaker. Shake until chilled and pour into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a lemon peel.

Sounds (and sips) like the makings of a great night. Please enjoy Virginia Spirits responsibly.

Get to Know Blue Atlas

Who’s Behind the Bar

What is a bartending trend you’ve noticed?

“I feel like trends change so much, it’s like a boomerang. Everything comes out and then kind of goes away, and then it comes right back around.

What’s your opinion on the term bartending vs. mixology?

What’s in Your Glass

You’ve pulled up to the restaurant and taken your seat at the bar. If you ask for local, Ryan might just mix up the approachable, yet elevated, Haru Collins.

Ingredients

1.5 Cirrus Vodka
0.5 oz Aperol
1 oz yuzu
0.5 oz green tea syrup
lemon garnish

Add all ingredients, plus ice, to a shaker. Shake until chilled and pour into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a lemon peel.

Sounds (and sips) like the makings of a great night. Please enjoy Virginia Spirits responsibly.

For all the whiskey fanatics out there, you haven’t made it until you’ve joined an exclusive club at your local distillery. With these perks, you’ll have special access to tastings, barrel production and releases like never before. Here are some of the top Virginia Whiskey Clubs to choose from:

Alligator Char Society by Reservoir Distillery

Membership rate: $500 per year

Membership perks:

Access to exceptional and singular blends, available only to Reservoir bottle club participants
Entitled to reserved samplings from the Alligator Char Society Bottle Locker in our Tasting Room
First access to Reservoir’s new batch releases with a select window of time to order bottlings before we release them to the public.
Get a hip and trendy Alligator Char Society flask.

Very limited spots available! Email info@reservoirdistillery.com to learn more or join.

Courage Club by Virginia Distillery Company

Membership rates

$100 signature — 1 bottle shipped quarterly plus club membership benefits below.
$200 premier — 2 bottles shipped quarterly plus club membership benefits below.
$300 collector — 3 bottles shipped quarterly plus club membership benefits below.

Membership perks:

Quarterly bottle shipments in December, March, June and September.
Complementary standard tasting for up to 4 people per visit.
Invitations and discounts to whisky events at the distillery and around Virginia.
Tickets to Whisky Release Parties
15% off Merchandise
Access to an online portal with unique content, virtual experiences and exclusive whisky library offerings and early access to limited edition releases.

Copper Fox Captain’s Club by Copper Fox Distillery

2025 membership rate: $190/year

Membership perks:

Quarterly exclusive bottle release – January/February, April, July and November.

Price range $49.99–$189.99 per bottle (bottle purchases are additional to membership). Club members are obligated to purchase one bottle per release.
Each release will be presented at a quarterly private event at our Williamsburg and Sperryville properties. Members, plus one (1) guest are invited to attend up to 4 events annually. Events include a welcome cocktail, a tasting of the release, two drink tickets for the cocktail of your choice and heavy hors d’oeuvres.
20% distillery discount on food, flights and cocktails for members and their guests. Excludes bottle sales.
Private tours — 12 complimentary tours per year
Single barrel private label opportunities — Work with our staff to hand-select your own private label. We can create a custom label or sticker and facilitate distribution.

Iron Fist Cocktail Club Membership by Ironclad Distillery

Membership rates:

One month membership = $75
Three month membership = $210
Six month membership = $390
One year membership = $720

Membership perks:

Each month, our talented team of bartenders will craft an improved, fancy, barrel-aged, rare or simply delicious bottled bourbon cocktail for you, marked with your name and the history of the concocted drink. Find it stashed safely in our Iron Fist Cocktail Cabinet, along with your very own glass.

Rules with an Iron Fist Membership

Your monthly cocktail concoction comes in an 8 oz. bottle with your name on it.
Each personalized bottle serves approximately eight cocktails.
If you don’t finish your bottle, don’t fret! You can take the remaining concoction home to enjoy.
We will send you information about the latest cocktail selection at the beginning of each month.
Membership benefits include a keepsake Iron Fist cocktail glass, invitations to special events, plus first dibs access to new product releases.

Cornerstone Club by Catoctin Creek Distillery

Membership rates:

Individual plan: $299 quarterly or $999 annually

4 events a year, with opportunity to purchase a plus one ticket per event
4 member-exclusive bottles (one release every quarter)
Option to purchase additional member-exclusive bottle
Free core tastings at the distillery (member +three guests)
Skip-the-line access on new distillery exclusives
Virtual town halls, masterclasses, and one vote in upcoming changes to the membership
Member-exclusive cocktails for purchase at the distillery
20% off retail merchandise + distillery events
Additional surprises throughout the year

Family plan (great for couples or pairs of friends to share): $425 quarterly or $1,499 annually

4 events a year for both you and a partner or a friend
4 member-exclusive bottles (one release every quarter)
Option to purchase additional member-exclusive bottle
Free core tastings at the distillery (member +three guests)
Skip-the-line benefit to purchase up to two bottles of new distillery exclusives
Virtual town halls, masterclasses, and two votes in upcoming changes to the membership
Member-exclusive cocktails for purchase at the distillery
20% off retail merchandise + distillery events
Additional surprises throughout the year.

Membership perks:

Quarterly bottle release
Members-only events: From guided barrel thieving to curated food pairings and special cocktail nights, every get-together will be an opportunity for members to share in an exclusive experience that starts with our most celebrated spirits and grows into a one-of-a-kind memory.
Skip-the-line: All members can skip the line for new distillery releases and first access to purchase our most sought-after bottles.
20% off distillery events and merchandise
Free exclusive pours and special off-menu cocktails for purchase at the distillery.
Members are invited to town halls, where they can have a say in everything from event calendar to influencing experimental spirits produced by Catoctin Creek.
Tastings included: members and up to three guests per visit are entitled to a core tasting when at the distillery.

While you’re at it, learn more about Virginia whiskey here.