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Virginia’s Distilling Heritage

Virginia’s distilling roots run deep. Though events like the Civil War and Prohibition once silenced stills across the Commonwealth, they also inspired distillers to organize, advocate, and rebuild. Thanks to those passionate pioneers—and the creative makers who followed—Virginia’s spirits industry now thrives with more than five dozen distilleries crafting exceptional small-batch spirits.

1620

Virginia Colonist George Thorpe distills the first batch of American corn whiskey at Berkeley Plantation, an estate situated along the banks of the James River, modernly known as Charles City. Establishing Virginia as the Birthplace of American Spirits, Thorpe documents his accomplishment in a letter to John Smyth dated December 19, 1620.

1799

George Washington's distillery at Mount Vernon produces nearly 11,000 gallons, making it one of the largest whiskey distilleries in America at the time.

1800

Scottish and Irish immigrants bring to America their recipes for “uisce beatha,” (Gaelic for “water of life”). The settlers make their whiskey without aging it, laying the groundwork for the same recipe that would become traditional in the Appalachian area.

1810

More than 3,600 Virginia distilleries are operating in the state alone, according to census records. In a country of 7 million people, distilleries are becoming very common in early America.

1860

The Civil War witnesses the destruction of many distilleries in the South. At the same time, the Confederacy passes prohibition laws, forcing southerners to give their whiskey up so that it could be used for medicinal purposes in the Confederate Army.

1920

The Prohibition Era begins with the implementation of the 18th Amendment, which bans the production, sale and import of alcoholic beverages. Although this amendment was repealed 13 years later, the consequences of this law – including increased violence and organized crime, financial loss and more – would continue to challenge the spirits industry for decades to follow.

Virginia Spirits Today

From bourbon and whiskey to vodka, gin, rum, and moonshine, Virginia’s distilleries embody the Commonwealth’s rich diversity and creative spirit. More than places to taste, they’re places to connect — where visitors can tour working stills, enjoy handcrafted cocktails, and meet the makers behind each bottle. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or simply curious, every visit offers a chance to discover the craftsmanship, community, and tradition that make Virginia spirits truly one of a kind.

Spanning the Commonwealth

No matter where you are in Virginia, you’re never far from a distillery.
Explore handcrafted spirits across every region:

  • Central Virginia – home to innovation and artistry

  • Coastal Virginia – where ocean breezes meet oak barrels

  • Northern Virginia – a hub of refined, urban craft

  • Southern & Southwest Virginia – steeped in heritage and mountain tradition

  • Shenandoah Valley & Virginia Mountains – where nature inspires every pour