Tag: Charlottesville

Make it Virginia Made with Henry Hill Jr.

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

Ryan Wirt bartender

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

haru collins cocktail

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. 

Ready for a weekend filled with endless exploration and rich culture, all while stopping by to try award-winning spirits at some of Virginia’s best craft distilleries? If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve done the research for you – here’s your guide to a “spirited” adventure in Central Virginia.

Scroll for a complete list of distilleries to visit (itinerary included) and recommendations on lodging, food and activities to enhance your stay. Your next adventure with #VaSpirits will be one to remember. 

Everything we mention below is conveniently mapped out here.

SIPS

Central Virginia is known as the Piedmont region of the commonwealth, home to more than 23 local distilleries, making it a spirits lover’s dream for adventure and perfect sips. While we’ve already highlighted the Greater Richmond Area within the region, now it’s time to head northwest for the remaining 9 distilleries.

Each stop adds something unique to your weekend away (or staycation). In truth, you probably won’t get to all the wonderful places this region has to offer, which means you’ll definitely want to come back for more. Use this itinerary to start your journey. It can be manipulated based on your ideal starting point and final destination. 

Bold Rock Distillery

Bold Rock Distillery is a craft beverage lover’s dream. Known for its hard cider and wine, Bold Rock unveiled its tasting room in 2017, where spirits and cider enthusiasts unite to enjoy canned cocktails, small bites and live entertainment. Visit Bold Rock’s Nellysford location for concerts, game nights, outdoor movies and more all while enjoying the beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

  • 1020 Rockfish Valley Hwy., Ste. A, Nellysford, VA 22958
  • (434) 361-1030
  • Website 

Devil’s Backbone Brewing Company

“Quite simply, we exist for one thing: To bring the people together in the great outdoors.” Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Devil’s Backbone produces award-winning elixirs for visitors to sit back and enjoy. Check its website for events at the Basecamp, like concerts and pairing dinners.

  • 35 Crandall Run, Roseland, VA 22967
  • (434) 361-1001
  • Website

Ragged Branch Distillery

Using its own grain for mash, Ragged Branch Distillery is for the sweet and spicy bourbon lovers. Visit the tasting room for hand-crafted cocktails, quality beef (yep, that’s right) and pick up a bottle of your new favorite Bottled-In-Bond bourbon, all while enjoying the countryside views of Charlottesville. 

  • 1015 Taylors Gap Rd., Charlottesville, VA 22903
  • (434) 244-2600
  • Website

Silverback Distillery

For a “chest-thumping good time,” visit this mother-daughter distillery in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Silverback Distillery offers cocktail flights, barrel-smoked cocktails and whiskeys served neat for locals and visitors alike. Up north and wishing for a fix of Virginia spirits? Visit the Pennsylvania location in the Pocono region for the same quality craft(woman)ship.

  • 9374 Rockfish Valley Hwy., Afton, VA 22920
  • (540) 456-7070
  • Website

Spirit Lab Distilling

Behind the red door, you’ll find Spirit Lab Distilling – Charlottesville’s oldest licensed distillery, where owners Ivar and Sarah hand-craft their spirits with integrity and tradition. While distillery products are prone to selling out fast, you can stop by for tastings and bottle purchases.

  • 1503 6th St. SE, Charlottesville, VA 22902
  • (434) 218-2605
  • Website

Three Notch’d Distilling Company

Three Notch’d Distilling Co. was born from the spirited success of Three Notch’d Brewing Co. Rooted in quality and craftsmanship, its premium bourbon and whiskey reflect the dedication to excellence head distiller Pete Zitler pours into each bottle. Three Notch’d has five distilling locations for spirits lovers across the Commonwealth. Visit its website to find one closest to you for live music and community events.

  • 520 2nd St. SE, Charlottesville, VA 22902
  • (757) 916-8080
  • Website

Virginia Distillery Company

Virginia Distillery Company (VDC) epitomizes American single malt excellence. Founded by Dr. George G. Moore, his legacy lives on through the Courage & Conviction brand of whisky. With a commitment to quality and tradition, VDC crafts each barrel to perfection, honoring George’s vision while pioneering new whisky traditions. Visit for tastings, tours and events.

  • 299 Eades Ln., Lovingston, VA 22949
  • (434) 285-2900
  • Website

Virginia Foothills Distillery Co.

Opening its new tasting room in Orange County in 2024, Virginia Foothills Distillery Co. is welcoming visitors to sip bourbon and enjoy the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Cheers to a quality pour in the heart of Virginia’s magnificent landscape!

  • 5361 Spotswood Trail, Barboursville, VA 22923
  • Website

Vitae Spirits Distillery

Located in Charlottesville, Vitae Spirits is a small-batch distillery carefully crafted from molasses to glasses. Its focus on quality and innovation, coupled with community influence in ingredients and practice, results in unique creations like Golden Rum, Coffee Liqueur and Damson Gin. Visit the newly opened Henry Ave. location in downtown Charlottesville for tastings, cocktails, classes and a behind-the-scenes tour of its operation.

  • 715 Henry Ave., Charlottesville, VA 22903
  • (434) 270-0317
  • Website

DINING 

Charlottesville and the surrounding areas are well-known for top-notch restaurants with charm. From quick and simple staples to four star white tablecloth experiences,, you’ll stumble upon countless dining options during your time in Central Virginia. Here are some to get you started: 

  • For great food and good times, stop by The Virginian– Charlottesville’s oldest restaurant, famous for its mac ‘n cheese and sandwich selection. 
  • There are FOUR distilleries in and around Charlottesville. For nearby restaurants, we recommend Belle, Citizen Burger Bar and Revolutionary Soup. Make sure to leave time to stroll the local shops to enjoy all downtown Charlottesville has to offer. 
  • For a special night out, book a reservation at Duner’s for dinner after spending the afternoon at Ragged Branch Distillery. 
  • Indulge in some of the best pizza in Central Virginia at Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie, just outside of Charlottesville.
  • End the day with a bit of luxury at Basic Necessities, located in Nellysford – book a reservation in advance to get your local dining fix. 
  • After working up an appetite at Virginia Distillery Company, head to Indian Oven for authentic dishes made with local ingredients. 
  • Craving a perfectly seasoned, slow-roasted BBQ? Barbeque Exchange has you covered! Savor a pulled pork sandwich on the pavilion with friends to end a perfect day of sipping #VaSpirits. 
  • If you’re not sure what you’re in the mood for, Main Street Tavern is the way to go. From burgers to flatbreads, there’s something for everyone. 

Two dinner plates at Duner's

Photo: Duner’s

For more dining ideas in Central Virginia, visit here. 

STAYS

From quaint and relaxing inns to luxury resorts, you’ll find the perfect place to extend your adventure. We’ve found a variety of special options for a memorable stay in Central Virginia. 

For an extended, memorable getaway, Wintergreen Resort, Southern Comfort Lakeside Cabin Resort or Boar’s Head Resort offers something for everyone in the family. 

Check out one of these unique stays for a cozy night after a day of exploring: 

A bit of boutique and luxury: 

EXPERIENCES 

While spirits are obviously the main attraction of your Central Virginia adventure, the Downtown Mall in Charlottesville has over 120 shops and 30 restaurants to visit and explore.

View of downtown Charlottesville walking mall

Photo: Visit Charlottesville

Other worthy pit stops: 

  • To spark curiosity on your weekend away, visit the Leander McCormick Observatory, one of the oldest observatory public programs in the country.
  • James River Batteau Company – For a relaxing cruise down the James River, book a sunset tour to enjoy good music and great food while spending time with friends and family.
  • Need a little vintage shopping therapy? The Gordonsville Antique & Flea Market is a perfect place to go on your way to Virginia Foothills Distillery & Co. 

While you’re traveling through the heart of Old Dominion, don’t miss out on the scenic views the state has to offer. For an exclusive guide on state parks and trails, visit here. 

Full-day activities: 

While you’re sampling spirits, you might as well explore more of the craft beverage scene. It’s a blossoming industry here, so go out and get a taste of local wineries and craft breweries. For all things local craft beverages, visit the Nelson 151, Virginia’s #LongWeekendAddress, to explore beautiful views, all while trying the best local sips. 

For more guides and resources on Central Virginia, head to virginia.org.