Choose Virginia-Made Spirits this September
Every year in September, we raise a glass to Virginia Spirits Month. It celebrates a time-honored tradition in Virginia – a 400-year-old one to be exact.
Dating back to America’s first colonies, Virginians have been resourceful, determined and passionate about crafting spirits worth celebrating. From George Washington’s distillery at Mount Vernon producing nearly 11,000 gallons of whiskey before the turn of the 19th century to prohibition and the rise of bootleg spirits, our colorful history is just a piece of what makes Virginia Spirits special.
Now, more than 80 distilleries across the commonwealth marry this deep-rooted tradition with modern ingenuity to produce some of the finest spirits in the world.
Fortunately, if you’re unfamiliar with local spirits or just have some more exploring to do, September is the perfect time to choose Virginia-made. Whether you’re looking for events to get out and experience the best of Virginia Spirits or hoping to stock up and take advantage of discounts all month long, we have the perfect guide for you.
Taste Virginia-Made
If you’re looking for an opportunity or two to sample spirits before committing to a bottle at the Virginia ABC store, tasting events are the best (and most fun) way to discover a new favorite. Check out the featured events below!
Virginia Distilled | September 14
at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture | Richmond, VA
Sample a variety of spirits made by distillers from around the commonwealth. Tickets include a tasting glass and access to the tasting tent, live music, food trucks and museum exhibitions. VIP tickets will include early event access, a selection of small bites and an insider’s look at the final, LIVE round of the Virginia Cocktail Games. Plus, all attendees will get to vote and name 2024’s Virginia Cocktail of the Year!
Virginia Spirits Roadshow | September 28
at Springfield Distillery in Halifax, VA
The Virginia Spirits experience is on the road again! Enjoy samplings from several Virginia distilleries and Southern Virginia food purveyors, live entertainment and so much more, all in the serene setting of Springfield Distillery’s sprawling estate. This year’s Roadshow benefits Paws of Honor and will include live K9 demonstrations from Precision K9 of Lynchburg, VA, and local law enforcement. Guests will also be able to purchase bottles of Virginia-made spirits from participating distilleries.
Shop Virginia-Made
There’s never been a better bang for your buck than Virginia-made spirits in September! All month long, you can stock up on your favorite bottles, discover something new or start the holiday gifting early with almost 200 bottles 20% OFF during Virginia ABC’s Sale-A-Bration. Available in all Virginia ABC stores or at participating distillery tasting rooms.
Ask for Virginia-Made
Heading out for a nice dinner or night on the town? Look for Virginia Spirits on the menu or ask for local in your favorite cocktail. Let your local bar or restaurant know that you support Virginia-made, and they should, too.
If you ask us, that bit of local flare makes any concoction unique and delicious.
Explore Virginia-Made
There are more than 80 distilleries spanning the commonwealth, and a weekend or two exploring Virginia’s vibrant spirits scene will have you hooked. Our distillers are passionate about showcasing their craft, from family recipes passed down through generations to modern and innovative creations.
Map out your visit for efficiency and to make your ideal itinerary! The Virginia Spirits Trail on VirginiaSpirits.org boasts an interactive itinerary builder, so you can pick and choose distilleries that serve up your spirit of choice within your region of choice. After finalizing your trip, save the journey to Facebook or send to your email for easy access along the way.
Another option (with twice the fun?) – sign up and use the Virginia Spirits Passport. This mobile pass gamifies your experience and allows you to rack up points toward exclusive prizes while visiting local distilleries.
Celebrate Virginia-Made
Celebrate the rich history and diverse range of spirits that make Virginia unique. And with exciting events, specials and so much more — there are endless opportunities to make the most of Virginia Spirits all month long.
And once you experience all that Virginia-made has to offer this September, you’ll never want to go back to choosing anything else.
As always, please enjoy Virginia Spirits responsibly.