22 TAPS OF LIQUID GOODNESS! DON’T FORGET ABOUT OUR WINE ON TAP, GUEST BEERS, CIDERS, MEADS AND OF COURSE FOOD FROM THE ELATION KITCHEN!
Ah…the sweet sounds of Summer…
Waves crashing on a sun-soaked beach…
Birds chirping in the tranquility of the mountains…
The hustle and bustle of a busy city street…
Wherever you plan to take in the sounds of summer, we hope you incorporate sipping a cold beer and listening to live music at one of Virginia’s craft breweries – whether it’s on an outdoor patio beachside, in a grassy field with the Blue Ridge Mountains as your backdrop, or in a lively urban taproom. In our cover story, we’ve put together several options for you to create the perfect summer playlist filled with great music and beer!
Additionally, in this issue, Jeff shares his conversation with David Gouveia, the Senior Category Merchant, Adult Beverage for Whole Foods Market’s Mid-Atlantic/Southeast/ Southwest regions and the trends that he’s seeing with independent craft beer in Virginia at Whole Foods stores.
Chris Cook tells about the emergence of the craft beer label as a different form of art.
And, Jefferson Evans and Chuck Triplett introduce us to Kettles & Grains, a bar, bottle shop, and homebrew store in Leesburg.
Plus, Jeff explores the new craft soda craze – both non-alcoholic and hard. And, brewery profiles include Post Secondary Brewing in Portsmouth and a preview of the new Three Notch’d location set to open in Nellysford this summer.
As always, our Brewery Guide provides a great road map to summertime fun!
Cheers!
Jennifer
Virginia Breweries Score World Beer Cup Awards
By Jeff Maisey
With some 10,000 beers entered from around the globe vying for a prestigious 300 awards, 10 breweries from Virginia brought home some hardware to be proud of.
Beers from the USA once again dominated the awards. Other award-winning entries came from Republic of Korea, Canada, Germany, Japan, Belgium, Italy, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, The Netherlands, Thailand, United Kingdom, and Mexico.
This year’s international competition was held in Nashville.
Following are our home state award winning beers:
GOLD
Basic City Beer Co: Basic Ought (International Dark Lager)
Beale’s: Brunch Stout (Coffee Stout or Porter)
COVA Brewing Company: Aloha State of Mind (Contemporary Gose)
Märzen (German-Style Maerzen or Franconian-Style Beer)
New Realm Brewing Company: Blackberry Smoke American Lager (Contemporary AmericanStyle Lager)
New Realm Brewing Company: Oaxaca Choca
Mexican Chocolate Stout (Chili Beer)
Parkway Brewing Company: Billy Boy’s Scotch Ale (Scotch Ale)
Port City Brewing Company: Colossal 2 (Smoke Beer)
Port City Brewing Company: Optimal Wit (Belgian-Style Witbier)
VA Craft Beer Cup
New Realm Expands Virginia Beach Capacity
In 2018, New Realm Brewing Company acquired the gigantic, short-lived brewing facility of Green Flash in Virginia Beach. The brewing capacity at that time was 40,000 barrels/year.
At that time, New Realm had only recently opened its Atlanta headquarters, however, its quick thinking ownership saw an irresistible opportunity.
“It was interesting,” explained co-founding brewmaster Mitch Steele. “It was a shift in plan for us. We hadn’t been focusing on Virginia and we were running out of capacity at our Atlanta brewery.”
Steele said New Realm wanted to be a Southeast brewery and the location in Virginia fit that near-term goal.
Since 2018, New Realm has added several 100-barrel fermenting tanks to the facility to meet growing demand as well as for contract brewing, which Steele said accounts for nearly 20% of the brewery’s total output.
Recently, New Realm purchased at auction — ironically from Green Flash’s San Diego location — ten 250-barrel tanks. The fermentors were then trucked coast to coast.
“We ran out of capacity at the end of the summer last year,” said Steel of the need for added tanks. “This was an opportunity to go ahead and fill up the whole cellar at a price-point that was attractive.”
This year’s Virginia Craft Beer Cup Competition is the largest on record since its inception in 2012. According to the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild’s Kimberly Noonan, 125 breweries are participating in this year’s competition with 471 beer entries in comparison to 106 breweries and 396 total beers in 2022. Brewers were able to submit up to four beers to be judged in 33 different categories. The Virginia Craft Beer Cup continues to be the largest state competition of its kind in the United States. Medals will be awarded at the Virginia Craft Beer Cup Awards Gala on July 31 at Hardywood West Creek.
Mike Pensinger and his Parkway Brewing Company team savor their World Beer Cup award. Photo courtesy of the brewery.
Commonwealth Satellite in NOVA
Virginia Beach-based Commonwealth Brewing Company announced it will be opening a new location this summer in the historic section of Fairfax City.
The renderings of the new brewery feature an open, modern design with lights strung across the ceilings. A covered outdoor patio with tiled flooring and gas fire pits looks inviting.
Commonwealth is known for its fruited sours, flavor-forward beers that explore the boundaries of today’s specialized hops.
Take That
It didn’t take the creative team at Old Ox Brewery long to react to news on Dan Snyder selling the Washington Commanders football team.
The Ashburn-based craft brewery responded with Bye Dan India Pale Ale packaged in 16-oz cans featuring an illustrated image of a smiling hog wearing a burgundy and gold hat waving bon voyage and saying, “Tastes like 23 years of bitterness.”
The brilliant idea was such a hit Old Ox ran out of product quicker than Antonio Gibson can run the 40 and had to produce more to satisfy demand.
If the Commanders wish to sell a lot of beer this season, look no further than this. Maybe diehard fans of the team should can the hog and adopt the Ox.
Hail to the new Commandersin-Chief.
Jimmy Loughran Departs Smartmouth
Smartmouth Brewing Company head brewer Jimmy Loughran recently announced he was parting ways with the brewery.
“This week marks my last week at Smartmouth Brewing,” Loughran posted on social media. “I’ve been here for over 10 years, and it has been an amazing ride.
“The first series of questions that have been asked are, ‘What happened? Why?,’ he continued. “The answer is, I want to see what comes next. I have poured more of myself into this part of my life than I ever thought possible. It has paid back more than I expected as well. I have made amazing beers (and plenty of mediocre ones too). I have been fortunate. As a part of such a small business, I was lucky enough to witness an idea grow into something bigger. While awards and accolades are always an easy thing to point to in terms of success, I take more pride in the fact that I was part of people’s lives. People visited the brewery to see friends, enjoy music, or support a local charity.
“There are changes occurring in the industry. Consumers change. The business model has changed. These aspects have led to some burnout (many times, honestly).”
Jimmy Loughran was the key ingredient to some of Smartmouth’s important successes, including taking the Virginia Craft Beer Cup trophy for Best-in-Show for Safety Dance Pilsner in 2017.
Loughran said he would be taking time to ponder future opportunities both within and upside the craft beer industry.
Moving up to the head brewer position is Jared Smith. Smith, who had been lead brewer, joined the Smartmouth team back in 2013. What a nice anniversary opportunity for the hard-working Smith.
GLOUCESTER BREWING CO
MUG SHOTS
25th Anniversary @ St. George Brewing Company, hampton
Gnarly Culpeper Block Party & Brew Fest, culpeper
Photos by Neil Adams Photography
lost barrel brewing spring beer fest, middleburg
FACT: Beer just tastes better outside.
A cold beer on a warm, summer day
That is quite the magical combination of words. Magical because of the images it conjures up –a cold glass in your warm hands, condensation dripping down the sides. The anticipation of that first sip, the refreshing, “Ahhh,” that follows. It’s the kind of “Ahhh,” that only a cold beer on a warm, summer day can elicit.
A patio changes everything. Thankfully, the Fairfax County Breweries are home to some pretty fantastic patios to go along with their fantastic craft beers. But what makes a beer on a patio so special? Is it the people we’re with? Is it finally getting out from behind that computer screen? Is it the fresh air? Is it finally being able to get outside after being cooped up all winter?
Always has, always will. Away from the walls, away from the ceilings, away from confinement, drinking a beer outside is a celebration of freedom. And drinking a cold beer outside on a summer day… that’s heavenly. We’re inviting you to make it a locally poured craft beer from any of our Fairfax County Breweries. Many have won awards and many of the ones that haven’t, should have.
Go out. Try a new beer on a new patio at a new brewery you’ve never tried. You have nothing to lose. The worst that could happen is you got to drink a cold beer on gorgeous summer day. Outside. And it doesn’t matter if you’ve been working out in the yard all day, the end result is going to be the same – “Ahhh.”
Find a patio to celebrate freedom on at fxva.com/beer.
Whole Foods Sees Demand for Virginia Beer
By Jeff Maisey
David Gouveia, the Senior Category Merchant, Adult Beverage for Whole Foods Market’s Mid-Atlantic/ Southeast/Southwest regions, noticed something trending upward in early 2023 — demand for local, independent craft beer in Virginia.
If you’ve ever been to a Whole Foods Market, chance are you’ve noticed highlighted local produce, seafood, and craft beers and cider.
On a recent visit to my Virginia Beach Whole Foods, one of 15 in the Commonwealth, I found a large variety of made-in-Virginia craft beer products, including Old Bust Head, O’Connor, Starr Hill, Bingo, St. George, Young Veterans, Hardywood Park, Three Notch’d, Smartmouth, Midnight Brewery, Legend, Pale Fire, Alewerks, and Aslin Beer Co. to name a few.
I recently talked with Mr. Gouveia to learn more about what he’s seeing in the craft beer marketplace at Whole Foods Market locations.
VCB: Matt Griffin from Hop & Wine Distributors shared with us of your insights into recent trends at Whole Foods locations in Virginia. What are you seeing?
David Gouveia: What we’re seeing, for 2022, national craft beat out local craft as far as units and sales.
We’re seeing a dynamic shift in 2023, especially in post Dry January with local brands gaining market share in shelf space as well as total sales dollars. We’re really looking positive for Virginia local.
VCB: Why do you think local, Virginia craft products are gaining strength at Whole Foods this year?
David Gouveia: I feel this is essentially local brands putting in new strategies. The last two years they were extremely focused on survival, whereas this year they’re taking some approaches focusing on in-house sales in addition to creating an impactful retail business by focusing on accounts that are closer to the breweries instead of expanding their brands (to outside markets). It’s essentially bringing local back locally. Since Whole Foods’ start we’ve really prioritized local producers, so we’re really excited about this trend.
VCB: When you look at Virginia brands, which are doing best in terms of sales? Or are you seeing more upward trends related to beer style?
David Gouveia: I think one of the reasons were seeing the breweries trending up is because they’re willing to be nimble and focus on what the
lot of local brands capitalizing on that. And then you have brands such as Three Notch’d, Solace, which are cans. Then you’ll see Port City, which have bottles. Even cider brands are producing variety packs. Potter’s Craft Cider will be introducing a variety pack shortly.
customers are looking for. They can move quicker than a national brand.
We’re seeing craft honing in on traditional European styles. We’re seeing a lot of Kolsch, Mexican-style lagers, and Belgian styles.
VCB: From the Virginia craft packaged products, are you seeing more bottled six-packs or cans in four-packs and 12-packs?
David Gouveia: Another trend we’re seeing is variety packs, which is really a local craft opportunity in Virginia. We’re seeing a lot of the national brands winning with variety packs and we see a
VCB: How are Virginia craft brands promoted, merchandised within Whole Foods stores?
David Gouveia: Within my position I really focus on local brands. I oversee a third of the country.
We love brands that come in and support demos. It gets our customers excited; it gets our community excited. It gives them (breweries) an opportunity to talk about their specific brand.
We love to focus on brands that are philanthropic by nature; that support their local communities, and that are really cause focused. Those are the brands we really love to support.
VCB: If a local Virginia brewery wants to have their craft product sold at their nearby Whole Foods Market, what is the best approach to getting on your shelves, whether through a major distributor or small service?
David Gouveia: Developing a relationship with your distributor is definitely important.
For us it’s about partnerships. If you’re willing to support us with a great partnership with what’s new and exciting…we’re all about creating partnerships with our local suppliers.
VCB: Craft beer and cider producers put a big effort in their packaging to stand out from the competition on retail shelves. Various design strategies emphasis color, brand logo identity, and style — as in IPA — to catch the eye of consumers overwhelmed by the selection. What do you see as being key to successful packaging?
David Gouveia: I think the Whole Foods shopper is really in-tune with the brands and the quality of beer as opposed to packaging. The packaging obviously helps depending on what products are side by side.
If everyone is in-tune with these loud, colorful labels, if you have a flat, clean label I think you’re going to stand out. And vice versa if the shelf is filled with these clean designs.
But I’ll revert back to the Whole Foods customer being more in-tune with the quality and the style as opposed to packaging.
VCB: How does Whole Foods determine brand placement of the shelves? Obviously, a craft beverage brand is going to prefer to be positioned at eye-level as opposed to the bottom of the shelf at ankle level.
David Gouveia: It’s at random, essentially. There are some guardrails that are utilized, but at the end of the day it’s based on style or regional location.
VCB: As a beer style IPAs are top of sales in the craft realm. Are you seeing that at Whole Foods as well?
David Gouveia: Yeah, IPAs — that’s what’s selling.
As I mentioned earlier, I’m seeing a lot of growth in high quality craft European styles. A lot of local craft brewers are focusing on consolidating an assortment and creating a high quality product, as opposed to some national brands trying to be everything to everyone.
In addition, we’re seeing a local cider revival as well. Local ciders are really winning, especially in Virginia. They’re utilizing local apples.
VCB: Regarding cider products, are cans more successful than 750-ml bottles?
David Gouveia: Cans are definitely winning. A lot of cideries are able to play around with new flavor combinations.
Grand Opening
Craft Sodas Cravings
By Jeff Maisey
As growth in the craft beer industry appears to be slowing due to shifts in younger demographic tastes in favor of craft cocktails, corporate hard seltzers like Truly and White Claw, independent breweries are adapting by exploring new avenues to appeal to an ever widening river of consumers wanting a friends and family experience, but without a stout or Belgianstyle ale.
Among Virginia-based breweries diving in to the craft soda market, Stable Craft Brewing (Waynesboro) and Oozlefinch Beers & Blending (Fort Monroe/Hampton) have set out on new, yet separate paths.
“We sprung into the soda offerings to provide our young customers an option to participate in farm fresh, local products while consciously not advertising to children with our beers and ciders,” said Mark Glickman, a spokesperson for Stable Craft.
Stable Craft is bottling its root beer and blueberry sodas. Each are non-alcoholic.
“We’re a family destination for many reasons and we identified that young people want to support us too,” Glickman explained. “The feedback on both are killer. The blueberry features fresh berries, juicy and the root beer wins over and over with its in your face flavor.”
Sodas, of course, are nothing new on the retail shelves. It is said the very first soda was created by English chemist Joseph Priestly when he infused water with CO2 back in 1767. In 1783, Schweppes (in Geneva) became the first bottled soda in the world.
In America, Dr. Pepper is the oldest brand, created in 1885 by pharmacist Charles Alderton. The following year, Dr. John Pemberton invented Coca-Cola.
Boylan Bottling Company soda products were established in 1891 and have found a niche popularity today at gourmet food stores. They tout “cane sugar” prominently on the front label. Today’s global conglomerate soda producers have relied on high fructose corn syrup and artificial ingredients to cut costs and vie for dominance.
Independent soda makers, however, are putting an emphasis
on natural, refreshing ingredients, and providing a more healthy alternative.
Alcoholic craft sodas became a fade a few years back with national brands like Mike’s Hard Lemonade and Not Your Father’s Root Beer.
Taking a page from this approach, Oozlefinch has launched a new brand of innovative hard sodas dubbed Boozy Soda.
“Our decision to put such a big stake in the hard soda game was made because we have dialed in the processes with our N00d W00ter series over the last few years and we are confident that no one else (outside of our good friends at The Answer) are doing them at the level that we are able to do them,” said Russel Tinsley, founder/majority owner/CEO of Oozlefinch Beers & Blending. “The hard sodas are also an opportunity for us to maintain our high standards for flavor, aroma, and color while offering a product at a very reasonable price point during a time where price matters to consumers more now than it ever has.”
For Oozlefinch, the addition of hard soda production is a major commitment, a seismic shift certain tom impact the plethora of options released by the brewery and its offshoot traditional brand, Nost.
“Production will be altered for both,” Tinsley said. “Moving forward we will only be offering the more exclusive styles that we produce in-house, both on tap and in four pack to-go options. If you want those styles, you will have to come see us to get them. However, Oozlefinch will keep the Das Yummy & Party Dino pastry sour series for distribution and we will also be adding a new Hazy IPA series to that mix. Our goal with these changes is to not only make room for the amount of sodas we are now producing, but to make our distro offerings a lot more consistent moving forward. We’ve had a ton of fun with the hype game up to this point, but it’s time for us to focus on growth and scaling our brands in a way that will make both Oozlefinch and Nost a force to be reckoned with throughout the commonwealth of Virginia and beyond.
Out of the gate, the core flagship Oozlefinch Boozy Soda line includes Grape Soda, Cream Soda, Orange Soda, and a Lemon Lime Soda, which Tinsley said is a Mountain Dew inspired variant.
The hard sodas are packaged in fun, brightly colored cans sure to grab the attention of scanning consumer eyes. They also pack a Batman “pow” punch — 7.5% ABV.
“What intrigues me the most about our Boozy Soda line specifically is the nostalgia we’ve tapped into with all of them,” Tinsley said. “These sodas don’t just resemble your favorite sodas, they mirror them almost identically…but with a high ABV kick! It never gets old seeing the smile on someone’s face after they taste these sodas for the first time and are immediately taken back to better days.”
Beyond the Beer: The Artistry of Virginia’s Craft Beer Labels
By Chris Cook
For all the biology and chemistry involved in brewing, making beer is as much art as it is science. While variables like fermentation temperature, alpha acid isomerization and yeast propagation contribute heavily to a beer’s profile and quality, brewers also wield an array of malts, hops and adjuncts as an artist wields a paintbrush and palette.
But as the popularity of craft beer has expanded, a different form of art has emerged as an inseparable part of craft beer culture: the beer label, which has evolved to represent the depthless creativity and ever-ranging personalities that make up Virginia’s craft beer scene.
With labels that range in color from bright and tropical to dark and muted, in art styles that range from abstract to gothic, and with detailed illustrations worthy of framing, the craft beer aisle has become an art gallery unto itself. The competitive nature of the industry paired with the creativity inherent in brewing has led Virginia brewers to create packaging and labels that are literally works of art — both as a means to catch the eye of consumers and a form of creative expression.
“We’ve always said you drink with your eyes before the beer ever touches your lips,” said Robby Willey, co-owner of Virginia Beer Company in Williamsburg.
Nelson Virginia Pale Ale to the tractors, farm trucks, hop vines and wheat fields on others like A Hopwork Orange and Kolsch 151, the packaging provides a sense of Blue Mountain’s rural, scenic setting.
“I smile every time I see our package art looking back at me from the shelves because it really does feel like Blue Mountain and Nelson County.”
But Blue Mountain’s artistry doesn’t end there. Their Barrel House allows for regular experimentation that is represented in both their array of beers and the labeling that accompanies it.
“Our Barrel House brand has a totally different story to tell for our brand [than our core Blue Mountain brand], and it’s way farther-ranging,” Smack said. “Barrel House is a mixed bag of crazy when it comes to branding, and we like it that way.”
Blue Mountain Barrel House labels range from the dark, brooding and gothic designs of their iconic Dark Hollow imperial stout to the cartoony and curious Slow Donkey doppelbock. Among Smack’s favorites is a gold-foil-accented Anglo-Saxon-style label for “Adamboer” that was the product of a collaboration with a University of Virginia professor of Old English.
For craft beer professionals that imbue their very personalities into the beers they brew, each label is a way to express something about the beer inside or the brewery that fermented it. Some breweries rely on a core design with slight color or artwork variations between brews, while others approach every can or bottle as a blank canvas. Ultimately, what ends up on the shelf is a reflection of the brewery itself, says Taylor Smack, owner of Blue Mountain Brewery.
“Sense of place is definitely what we go for,” said Smack, whose taproom and restaurant sit in rural Nelson County. “It’s an easy vision for us to honestly convey because we love this place: spring and summer river trips, fall hikes and winter snow fun –all in this chill place with one stoplight and miles of mountain and river road.”
The label artwork on Blue Mountain’s flagship brews features a series of hand-drawn illustrations depicting the rurality of their location in the shadow of the Blue Ridge mountains. From the rolling hills and mountain peaks depicted in their Full
And, as Willey states, while every brewery’s individual beer labels provide an opportunity to say something about the beer inside or the people that produced it, altogether a brewery’s portfolio of packaging art can say much more.
“It becomes something you hope translates over time into a larger tapestry,” said Willey, whose Virginia Beer Company has produced more than 400 beers since their founding in 2016.
“You want people to look back and see all your labels and hope they can tie them all together and say that’s a Virginia Beer Company beer, that’s a Commonwealth beer, that’s a Hardywood beer. We all probably have that feeling of wanting to have those dots that connect the history of your brewery.”
Virginia Beer Company puts colors at the forefront of its label designs, allowing the iconic VBC shield logo to take center stage. Everything else on the label is fair game, however, which has resulted in boldly pink and flowery designs like their Tropical Contact hibiscus gose or the festive, yet snarling Santa Claus on Evil Santa. Willey notes he and his VBC team have received requests to put specific label designs on t-shirts and merchandise not directly because of the beer, but more so because of the label design.
“There’s this fun, animated side of the industry, and that translates to how you display your brand,” Willey said. “That’s not just your logo and your taproom, but how the beer is reflected in cans and bottles. It’s a pride point. I would imagine every brewery is proud of how they display their liquid before it’s even sampled.”
When shelved together in a bottle shop or inside a craft beer connoisseur’s meticulously cultivated refrigerator, the array of those labels and cans exemplifies the creativity and diversity of Virginia’s craft beer culture itself.
R&B group The Fuzz Band on stage during the Veer Music Awards show at The Vanguard Brewpub & Distillery.
Music & Beer Build Community
By Jeff Maisey
Few things seem to bring people together like beer and live music. They are a powerful combination when paired together and touch our inner humanity.
With a pint of your favorite craft liquid and the sound of a full band or folk duo serenading, the atmosphere at many of Virginia’s breweries these days sure is festive.
Where some small breweries have a local singer/ songwriter set up on the patio or an indoor corner space, other establishments mimic a concert venue or outdoor cultural festival.
This enhancement of today’s brewery experience lures tourists and locals alike. With beverage options expanding to include non-alcoholic brewed teas, sodas, and flavored seltzers to hard cider, crafted cocktail concoctions and wine, everyone feels welcomed.
Building community through craft beer and live music is so relevant it was the topic of a seminar at the recent World Beer Cup event in Nashville. Port City’s Brewing Company founder Bill Butcher co-hosted the discussion.
And what’s not to love? People dancing, singing, conversing, and having a fun time together is a vaccine for this polarized country, and we think that’s a great thing.
This summer, we hope you’ll take time to participate. Get up off that couch, jump in the car, and head to a brewery presenting music. Live in the moment and make a memory.
Following are a few suggestions. There are many to choose from. Enjoy and have fun!
Roads region — craft beer, distilled spirits, and live music.
Thomas had long owned Spacemakers, a highly sought after construction and design firm based in Norfolk. Spacemakers’ use of repurposed building materials and adventurous creativity has made the contractor a popular choice for many new breweries including Commonwealth Brewing Company, Elation Brewing, and COVA Brewing Company.
For his own brewery, Thomas wanted the space and visitor experience to be a true showcase, and he nailed it.
The former historic armory features an old school, shoebox stage for live music, complete with a large house sound-system and mixing board, and concert lighting. And, that’s just the inside.
Outdoors, The Vanguard sports a large all-weather concert stage. By next year, the vacant lot next to the venue/restaurant/ brewery/distillery will be turned into an open air entertainment park.
Caiseal Beer & Spirits is the multiple award-winning in-house brand produced and served at The Vanguard.
The Vanguard, which won the 2022 Veer Music Award for Best Live Music Venue (Brewery) in the Coastal Virginia region, presents live music most evenings of the week year-round. Most shows are free to attend. Both local and national acts have graced its stage including the Rev. Horton Heat, Voodoo Glow Skulls, and Saliva.
Among the upcoming concerts to check out include My Son The Hurricane (June 15), Goats in a Boat (June 18), Good Shot Judy (June 23), and Take The Cake (June 30). Capacity is about 1,200 people.
Photo by Wendy Woodell.
New Realm has really gone all-in on live music programming for its recently built outdoor stage. The brewery is working with a concert promoter to book national acts for its prime music series and local bands for its lawn series.
“That’s been a really nice surprise,” said New Realm co-founder Mitch Steele. “It generates a lot of excitement and gets a lot of people into our place. We’re not right on the water in Virginia Beach, so we thought this would be an extra incentive to get people in and enjoy what we have to offer.”
Steele, who literally wrote the book on West Coast IPAs, has New Realm cooking up an award-winning lineup of beers including Hazy Like The Fox (Hazy IPA), Euphonia Pilsner, Blackberry Smoke Lager, and Southern Tee (Berliner weisse brewed with tea and lemons).
Among the must-see outdoor concerts this summer: Artikal Sound System (June 8), Black Joe Lewis (July 6), Colt Ford (July 13), Living Colour (July 27), Bumpin’ Uglies (August 10), and Keller & The Keels (August 27).
The rural Northern Virginia brewery is essentially an entertainment center and features a large, outdoor concert stage called The Yard/Farm Brew Live.
In fact, their motto is “Where craft beer and handcrafted bites meet live music and entertainment.”
Impressive every step of the way, select from a draft list that includes Planet Druidia Galaxy IPA, Goats in Space, Dos Silos Cerveza, and Main Street American Lager.
The brewery posts show for the current month only so check out their Facebook page or 2silosbrewing.com for up-to-date live music schedules.
Stable Craft Brewing
Waynesboro
Set on a beautiful rural piece of property, Stable Craft Brewery has a cleverly crafted outdoor stage — the back of a commercial truck with the side panel removed — for mostly acoustic-based live music.
Readers of Virginia Living voted Stable Craft as the Best Outdoor Dining w/Live Music.
For a relaxing time and great craft beer and dining, consider this for a chilled afternoon in the countryside.
Roanoke
Starr Hill Brewery established itself as a music-centric beer maker from day one when brewer Mark Thompson and Dave Matthews Band manager Coran Capshaw formed a partnership.
While some things have changed, the music focus lives on, especially at the brewery’s satellite location in downtown Roanoke.
To complete your music experience, be sure to order a Grateful IPA (Grateful Dead reference) or Ramble On IPA (Led Zeppelin song title reference).
For live music schedule, visit their Facebook page for current month postings.
Parkway Brewing Company
Salem
Just a stone’s throw from the Appalachian Trail and Blue Ridge Mountains and with a full tasting room of IPAs (Get Bent), lagers (Flat Top), and other delectable liquids, Parkway Brewing is keen on presenting live music to match. Upcoming music highlights include Mason Creek (June 7 & July 16) and Mercy Creek (June 14 & July 5).
Smartmouth Brewing Company
Norfolk
Smartmouth acquired an adjoining warehouse and turned it, in part, into a live music space with a wicked backdrop of beer cans.
The brewery’s music programming largely targets the indiepop and punk rock scene of Norfolk to go with its cast of beers that includes Alter Ego and Safety Dance Pilsner.
Check their Facebook page for Warehouse Live series updates as shows are somewhat inconsistent in scheduling.
The Bunker Brewpub by Young Veterans
Virginia Beach
Young Veterans’ satellite location on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront includes a music venue space dubbed The Bunker.
Worth checking out: Mad Caddies (June 20), Kitchen Dwellers (July 7), and Full Moon Fever (Tom Petty Tribute, July 21).
Young Veterans owner Tom Wilder plays guitar and sings in his alternative rock band Wilde Owl.
The revamped original Richmond location features an outdoor stage for live music as patrons relax on a variety of seating options with fire-pits, and classic Hardywood drafts.
Be sure to catch The Atkinsons (June 18) and Acoustic Underground (September 8).
Cave Hill Farms Brewery
McGaheysville
Get the whole farm brewery experience when Cave Hills presents local and regional folk, blues, bluegrass, and country music.
Readers of the Daily News-Record voted it as the region’s Top 5 best brewery and best live music venue. Their Summer Music Series schedule was not announced at press time, but check out cavehillfarmsbrewery.com if you’re headed out that way.
Enjoy a glass of Rude Rooster Saison, Biking Viking Blueberry Blonde, and Full Mane NEIPA while you’re at it.
Main Line Brewery
Richmond
The brewery makes great use of its outside space with a good size stage for live music. Upcoming shows to see: River City Wranglerz (June 11), Mother’s Little Helpers (Rolling Stones Tribute, June 15), Flat Elvis (June 24), and The Atkinsons (July 1).
Blue Mountain Barrel House
Arrington
One of the best views in Nelson County is on the lawn of Blue Mountain Barrel House. The brewery, which is known for its heavy, dark brews, also produces some outstanding lighter beers such as Kolsch 151. Experience life in an inspiring setting during their Summer Sundays Live Music Series from 1 PM to 4 PM.
Elation Brewing
Norfolk
Owner Kenny VanHook built performance stages at one point in his life. To no surprise, his gorgeously designed Elation Brewing includes a stage for mostly acoustic-based bands and solo/duo musicians, but also is keen to showcase everything from traditional German music, alt-country, rock, and open mic nights. You can hear live local music consistently on the weekends.
Strangeways Brewing
Fredericksburg
A raised stage and draped backdrop are all you need to get the show up and going.
Mostly local and regional bands perform as patrons sip some amazing Belgian-inspired brews.
Don’t sleep on these live local music offerings: The Spiral Light Band (June 9), Sidewalk Soul (June 16), Trial by Fire (Journey Tribute, June 17), Troy Breslow (June 25), Red Sun King (July 1), Josh Misner Band (July 7), and Bobby G and the Heavies Band (July 8).
Pro Re Nata Brewpub & Music Hall
Crozet
Mountain views, pet friendly, great craft beer, and live music — say no more.
With both an indoor concert hall and smaller outdoor stage, this is the essential Virginia brewery with live music experience you need to have.
Try one of these beers: Sound Check Lager, Tapped Out Pilsner, Hazy Skyline IPA, and The Cure Cream Ale.
Upcoming shows to see include Chamomile and Whiskey (June 9), Cherry Red (Stones Tribute, June 10), and Zoso (Led Zeppelin Tribute, July 22).
Harpers Ferry Brewery
Purcellville
The scenic brewery offers live music every Friday, Saturday and Sunday March through November. Its scenic view overlooking the Potomac River is as savory as its outstanding craft beers.
Be sure to catch these performers over the summer of 2023: Mike Kuster & The Catoctin Cowboys (June 16), Red Sammy (June 17), The Brisk Band (June 25), Sela Campbell (July 15), Mo Safren (July 29), and Meisha Herron (August 6).
Concerts are essential at
brewery.
Pro Re Nata Brewpub & Music Hall in Crozet.
Photo courtesy of the
Beer Education at Post Secondary
By Jeff Maisey
Standing at the urinal in the restroom you’ll come face-to-face with “The History of Beer.”
The colorful, informative poster illustrates how beer developed, beginning with Chinese villagers who brewed fermented boozy drinks nearly 8,000 years ago. It notes barley beer in the Iranian mountains being brewed in 3,000 BC. Plus, fun, historical highlights such as the first reference — in 1721 — of a dark, strong brew known as a Porter, and the 2010 production of a 55% ABV ale dubbed “The End of History.”
If it seems education is literally frontand-center of nearly everything at Post Secondary Brewing in Portsmouth, you’d be correct.
The brewery is owned and operated by the husband/wife team of Christopher “Topher” and Susan Slater. By day, Topher is an electronics and robotics teacher (23 years) at Hickory High School in Chesapeake.
“We wanted to do an educationalcentric brewery,” explains Topher. “What
Post Secondary loosely translates to is what are you doing after school. For me, I’m brewing after school. But, it also references post secondary fermentation.”
Reenforcing the education theme, Post Secondary’s smartly created logo features a hop cone wearing a graduation cap with a piece of barley used as the tassel. The logo is painted on the wall behind the bar and is printed on all of the merchandise. Topher brews on a 3.5-barrel system. The tiny, narrow brewhouse is visible to visitors through large glass windows as are the stacks of malts and other ingredients used in the brewing process. Again, like everything else, tying in to an educational experience.
The brewery’s core lineup since its April’s Fool’s Day opening includes Creamsicle Ale, Single Hop Lemon Drop IPA, Creme Brûlée Stout, Oatmeal Stout, and Lost Recipe (golden ale). The latter has a funny story.
“I was building a recipe for something I had never brewed before when I came back to make some notes, it was not saved
onto my computer and I lost the recipe,” shared Topher.
Let’s hope he remembers well enough to replicate Lost Recipe because it’s an A+ fine golden ale. Customers, agree as it’s the top selling beer thus far.
Topher also mentioned he wants the brewery to be known for its stouts, and the homebrewer-turned-pro really nailed it with his Oatmeal Stout. On nitro, the head remains until the last drop is done. The rich, dark body is full of roastiness and not overly heavy.
Moving forward, Post Secondary Brewing will maintain four of five flagships on tap, but the scientific mind of a robotics teacher is enthusiastic about serving experimental, small batches of beer.
“It’s a small brewery. We’re very nimble and we’re going to be doing lots of different things,” Topher shared in summary. “I’m looking into alternative bittering products. We are an ale house.”
And thus, a new chapter in brewing begins in Olde Towne Portsmouth.
Susan and Topher Slater
A silver sample platter of Three Notch’d brews served up in Nelson County. Photo courtesy of the brewery.
Making a Mark on Route 151
By Jennifer Waldera
Nelson County’s Route 151 is a scenic byway known for its vast amount of breweries, wineries, cideries, and distilleries where visitors can sip or swill against the beautiful backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This summer, the community will be welcoming its newest addition, Three Notch’d Brewing Company.
Nestled in Nellysford, in the space that previously housed Wild Wolf Brewing, Three Notch’d Brewing’s newest location will not only be a destination point for hungry diners and fans of craft brews -- it’s also a place to expand production, allowing the brewing company to delve into distilling, too. They’ve already contracted a high-end bourbon that’s ready to go to bottle while they wait the several years that it will take to produce their first bottles at the new property.
“We worked with a group to create our own blend, called Hatchet Head Bourbon,” said Three Notch’d Brewing Company President and COO, Scott Roth. Bourbon production isn’t the only expansion happening at Three Notch’d. In January, the brewery began producing a non-alcoholic line of beers that have an ABV of less than .5%. The brews are served in-house but will also be available direct to consumers. Additionally, ready-to-drink cocktails in flavors like Orange Crush and Tropical Twist are now available. With the production
space at their headquarters, located in Charlottesville, maxed out, production of these latest beverages will happen at the new property too.
To create an inviting space for visitors, the bar area and event space have been completely remodeled and the kitchen was overhauled as well. Additionally, they migrated from using a septic system to connecting with Aqua Virginia, freeing up the entire back area of the property to create even more space for visitors to take in mountain views.
As for the food, Roth says that they’ll be keeping a couple of the standard menu items that they offer across their restaurants, but that they intend to focus on southern-style food and BBQ. Furthermore, as part of their ongoing effort to be a family-friendly destination point, the brewery is intending to strongly focus on the ability to get food quickly. A picnic-style menu will offer speedy and portable food options, so that even those who can’t get a table during busy times can still fill hungry stomachs.
“From the very beginning, one of the things we wanted to do was try to create spaces throughout VA where we could offer the ability for people to come and experience what we’re all about,” said Roth.
One of the brewery’s primary focuses, in addition to offering a top-notch brewery and restaurant experience, is on
building community.
“That’s a big part of our business model and we’ve stuck with that since the beginning,” Roth said.
One of the main ways that Three Notch’d has contributed to the communities in which it operates is focusing on collaboration. The brewery frequently partners with non-profit groups by donating proceeds and raising awareness. While Roth says that there are numerous examples, the most recent is their feature of a beer called Simcoe for S.A.R.A. which was brewed in collaboration with the Sexual Assault Resource Agency and served in April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Not only was it a campaign for awareness, but a portion of the proceeds was donated to the agency.
Another collaboration, with UVA veterans, was the Never Forget American Pale Ale. The APA was released in 2021 to pay homage to first responders on the 20th anniversary of September 11.
“Our tagline is: Leave your mark. We love to tell people’s stories through beer.”
While the brewery doesn’t have a specific opening date, construction should be complete in June and they intend to open in July.
“We’re excited to join the Nelson County crew. We have really good relationships with the breweries there -they’ve welcomed us with open arms.”
Friendship Is Brewing at Kettles & Grains
By Jefferson Evans and Chuck Triplett
Abasic challenge of any retail business is the right balance between creating a comfortable environment while also projecting as knowledgeable and professional. Being casual and laid back while also attentive to customers’ needs. Helping customers find what best fits their needs without seeming pushy. Whether looking for homebrew supplies, a location to brew on premise, a quality beer store, or a place to have a great beer and a bite to eat, a person doesn’t have to be in Leesburg’s Kettles & Grains long to realize that the owners, George & Dawn Prusha, do a great job striking those balances, and in the process, have earned enthusiastic, loyal regulars. Stop by on a Friday night and see what I mean. You might end up hanging with great folks, taking turns buying different beers to share and help each other decide what to buy for home, and no doubt by the time you leave, you’ll have decided a return trip is very much in order.
That balance also involves George and Dawn wearing many hats. There is the bar with 12 rotating taps where you can order beers by glass or crowler such as Maine Beer Company’s Mo Pale Ale, Perennial Artisan Ale’s Salted Chocolate Abraxas Imperial Stout, or a local like Lucky You Imperial IPA from Ocelot
Brewing Company. From the kitchen, you can order a Bavarian pretzel or flatbread pizza. A beer shop includes beers from popular breweries, but also includes harder to find beers. For example, you’ll find beers from Fargo, ND’s Drekker Brewing Company that you haven’t seen anywhere else. In the front room, you will find homebrew supplies and equipment. And finally, a row of brew kettles. Want to brew a beer but need help deciding what to brew and an appropriate recipe? Know what you want to brew but just want someone else handling prep work and all the cleaning? Looking for a fun party or corporate event ideal? Brew on premise checks that box.
George grew up in Maple Heights, a suburb of Cleveland, while Dawn is a Loudoun County girl. The two met at Fairmont College in West Virginia. After, George moved to Loudoun to be with Dawn and raise a family of three boys. A homebrewing interest led to trips to The Flying Barrel Homebrew Shop in Frederick, MD. Bob, the owner, mentioned hearing from Virginia customers that “we need a homebrew shop in Loudoun”. George always had an interest in owning his own business and given that Dawn mentions “all our vacations became beercations,” it is not surprising that a
seed was planted. Bob decided to sell the business and George and Dawn made a serious offer that would likely have been accepted except a person with “right of first refusal” made an acceptable offer. That seed wasn’t going anywhere and scouting locations closer to home in Loudoun County involved 5 locations, the first one being the eventual choice with the shop opening in 2013 — this December will be the 10 year anniversary. The brew on premise and retail store were present from the start, but draft options evolved from no taps to four taps to the present 12 taps system. Tap takeovers were pretty regular pre-COVID, but are an occasional event present. During COVID, bakers desperate to find yeast became customers. Brew on premise hasn’t fully recovered, but folks stuck at home got into homebrewing and increased those sales. George and Dawn mention how vital their customers were to them coming through the pandemic as well as they did. From starting the day already having 75 orders placed by email for curbside pickup to customers buying gift cards with no plans to cash them in till months or years later, sort of like buying Kettle & Grains bonds. The whole thing brought home how much they were appreciated and what a great customer group they were blessed with.
Owners George and Dawn Prusha in front of the bar at Kettle & Grains. Photo by Michael Konsen.
BLUE RIDGE HIGHLANDS
9th Annual Bushels & Barrels Farm-to-Table Dinner
Fri., June 16, 6:30pm
A beer or wine tasting, farm to table dinner that will be locally sourced and prepared. Live music by 5 Brothers Jazz Band. Tickets: $65 Reynolds Homestead 463 Homestead Lane, Critz www.bushelsandbarrels.com
9th Annual Bushels & Barrels Festival
Sat., June 17, 4-10pm
A local food, wine, & beer festival featuring four bands, food vendors, and more! Tickets: $25 – GA; $65 – VIP. Reynolds Homestead 463 Homestead Lane, Critz www.bushelsandbarrels.com
Summer Solstice Fest
Sat., June 17, 1-11pm
A community celebration featuring live music, food, arts, crafts, performances, Sundown 5K Race, and more. 118 S. Main Street, Blacksburg downtownblacksburg.com
Go With The Flow Brewfest
Sat., June 24, 12-8pm
Enjoy craft brews, local distilled spirits, cocktails, and wine, eating delicious brick oven cuisine, and listening to live music as you take in the scenery along the New River. Plus, axe throwing, corn hole, vendors, and more. Tickets: $15-$75. Fries Park
Anderson Street, Fries www.flowbrewfest.com
Pints 4 Vets
Sat., July 1, 12-10pm
Enjoy a day of vendors and events for kids as well as adults. Plus, Veteran benefit experts will be on-site to chat. For a $10 donation, receive a souvenir glass and 10% off your first five pours. Proceeds benefit Floyd’s Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. Buffalo Mountain Brewery 332 Webbs Mill Road, Floyd
CENTRAL VIRGINIA
Cornhole Tournament at Three Roads
Fri., June 9, 6-9pm
In partnership with the Polloway Student Society of The University of Lynchburg. $10 entry per team. $1 per pint sold during the event will be donated to the group.
Three Roads Brewing 1300 Court Street, Lynchburg 231 Fest at Castle Hill
Sat., June 10, 12-6pm
A taste of Virginia’s premier craft beverage scene. Enjoy wine, beer, and cider tastings, delicious food trucks, live music, local artisans, and activities for the kids. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.
Castle Hill Cider 6065 Turkey Sag Road, Keswick www.231fest.com
7th Anniversary at Castleburg Brewery
Sat., June 10, 3pm
We’ll be celebrating with a corn hole tournament, music by Steven Snider & Dead Letter Officers, and delicious beer!
Castleburg Brewery 1626 Ownby Lane, Richmond Blackberry Jam 2023 at Hardywood Sat., June 10, 12-10pm
A music celebration for the release of our beloved Virginia Blackberry! Enjoy our Blackberry beer releases, blackberry treats, and music all day.
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery West Creek
820 Sanctuary Trail Drive, Richmond
Coyote Hole Pride Celebration Sat., June 17, 11am
Celebrate PRIDE & LOVE! Enjoy live music, family friendly events, food specials, craft vendors, and more.
Coyote Hole Ciderworks
225 Oak Grove Drive, Mineral Beer Dinner at Blue Mountain
Tues., June 20, 6:30-9:30pm
Join us for a 5-course gourmet meal paired with Blue Mountain beers and hosted by Brewmaster Taylor Smack. Reservations required.
Blue Mountain Brewery 9519 Critzers Shop Road, Afton 540.456.8020
6th Year Anniversary Celebration at Beale’s
Sat., June 24, 12-10pm
Live music all day, food specials, and a special beer release.
Beale’s 510 Grove Street, Bedford
Bases Loaded Brew Fest
Sat., June 24, 12-5pm
Sample over 50 craft beers, enjoy live music, shop from local artisans, and challenge your crew to lawn games –all in the baseball field behind the old VWF on Route 231. Tickets: $45 GA; $75 VIP Patch Brewing Co. 10271 Gordon Avenue, Gordonsville
Who will win the 2023 Best in Show Virginia Beer Cup Award?
Find out Monday, July 31 as the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild presents the Virginia Beer Cup Awards Gala & Trade Show at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery West Creek in Richmond.
Low Country Boil at Blue Mountain Barrel House Tues., July 4, 11am-7pm
Celebrate Independence Day with a traditional Low Country Boil! Other food options, local wine, and cider will be available along with great beer. Live music all day.
Blue Mountain Barrel House 3224 East Branch Loop, Roseland Peach Festival at Three Roads Sat., July 8
Three Roads Brewing Company 312 West Third Street, Farmville Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival
The Meadow Event Park 13191 Dawn Blvd., Doswell www.beerandbourbon.com
2023 Virginia Craft Beer Cup Awards Gala
Mon., July 31, 5-9pm
VCBG Cup Awards Gala & Trade Show where 125 breweries will compete for medals and the Virginia Beer Cup Best In Show Award!
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery West Creek
820 Sanctuary Trail Drive, Richmond
COASTAL VIRGINIA
Annual Norfolk Harborfest Fri.-Sun, June 9-11
Featuring the annual Parade of Sails featuring international tall ships, one of the largest fireworks shows on the East Coast, a drone show, interactive family games and activities, Navy exhibits and demonstrations, artisan foods and beverages, live entertainment, and more.
Town Point Park Waterside Drive, Norfolk 757-441-2345 www.festevents.org
Roarin’ 20s Theme Night at Elation Sat., June 10, 6pm
Enjoy ‘20s style vibes and a photo booth to commemorate the night. Costumes are encouraged!
Elation Brewing 5104 Colley Avenue, Norfolk
Summer Kick Off Party at Big Ugly Sat., June 10, 12-4pm
Kick off Summer with food trucks, live music by Bob Cullipher, vendors, Fairy Hair by Chelsea, face painting, and a bounce house for the kiddos.
Big Ugly Brewing Company
845 Battlefield Blvd S., Chesapeake
Bluegrass & Brew Festival
Sun., June 11, 3pm
Experience a trio of genre-defining bluegrass acts including Carbon Leaf and some of Coastal Virginia’s finest breweries, cideries, and distilleries.
The American Theatre
125 East Mellen Street, Hampton
Grateful Dead Tribute Party at VBC
Fri., June 16 & Sat., July 8
Featuring live music by RapJack & DJ Kudlz (6-9pm), can release, and food truck.
The Virginia Beer Company
401 2nd Street, Williamsburg
Gloucester’s Second Annual Luau Sat., June 17, 4pm
Enjoy an authentic Hawaiian pig roast with Gumbeau’s Catering and relax by the “beach” in chairs under “palm trees” while lounging by the sea (water troughs).
Gloucester Brewing Company
6778 Main Street, Gloucester www.globrewco.com
Lawnmower Beer Festival
Sat., June 17, 12-5pm
Join us and some fantastic local craft breweries for their take on a “lawnmower” beer! Sample multiple styles from a Helles to a Pilsner to an IPA, and more!
St. George Brewing Company 204 Challenger Way, Hampton www.stgbeer.com
Friends of Dorothy Pride Party at VBC
Sun., June 18
In partnership with Hampton Roads Pride and featuring food truck, drag bingo, and live music.
The Virginia Beer Company 401 2nd Street, Williamsburg
Lucky 7 Year Anniversary at Tradition Sun., June 18 – Sat., June 24
Celebrating 7 years with 7 days of beer releases, live music, vendors, and food trucks.
Tradition Brewing Company 700 Thimble Shoals Blvd., Newport News
Fourth of July Great American Picnic & Fireworks Celebration
Tues., July 4, 5-10pm
Relax on the lawn and enjoy an evening of All-American fare along with live musical entertainment from military brass bands! A sensational fireworks show high above the Elizabeth River begins at 9:30pm.
Town Point Park Waterside Drive, Norfolk 757-441-2345 www.festevents.org
Ocean View Beer & Wine Festival
Fri., July 28, 6-9:30pm Craft beer, wine, spirits, food sampling, and live music!
Ocean View Beach Park, Norfolk 757.441.2345 www.fesstevents.org
NORTHERN VIRGINIA
Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival
Sat., June 3, 12-6pm
Enjoy all the pleasures that Southerners live by – beer, bourbon, barbecue, boots, bacon, biscuits, bluegrass, and smoked beasts! Enjoy beer and bourbon tastings, BBQ, games, seminars, vendors and more!
Bull Run Special Events Center
7700 Bull Run Drive, Centreville www.beerandbourbon.com
Hop Sonic Music Festival
Sat., June 10, 11am-10pm
A music festival centered around craft beer, some of the best musicians around, and delicious food.
Old Bust Head Brewing Company 7134 Old Farm Station Road, Vint Hill
Summer Solstice Festival at Lost Barrel Sat., June 17, 11am-8pm
Celebrate the most sun-filled days with a festival featuring local vendors, flower crowns, festive food & drink, and lots of good music!
Lost Barrel Brewing 36138 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg
SHENANDOAH VALLEY
Hop Blossom Craft Beer Festival Sat., June 10, 12-6pm
Focusing on craft beer education and exposing participants to the growing popularity and love for great craft beer. Featuring 40+ breweries, local vendors, and so much more! Tickets: $30 in advance; $40 day of.
Old Town Mall N. Loudon Street & West Boscawen Street, Winchester www.hopblossom.com
Summer Jam at Massanutten Mon., July 3, 5-10pm
Music, beer, wine, food, and fireworks! Massanutten Ski Area 4614 Massanutten Drive, McGaheysville 540.437.3368 www.massresort.com
Red Wing Roots Music Festival
Fri.-Sun., June 23-25
A family-friendly three day celebration of music featuring five stages and 50+ bands, kids events and activities, bike rides in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, and close access to great hiking and fishing. Beer sponsored by Blue Mountain Brewery. Chimneys Park 94 Natural Chimneys Lane, Mt. Solon www.redwingroots.com
SOUTHERN VIRGINIA
SunBine Music Festival
Fri.-Sun., June 23-25
Celebrating the diversity of music on a beautiful farm brewery where we showcase established and emerging talent and raise money for future generations to enjoy music and the arts. Featuring fire performers, food, craft vendors, car camping, and more. Proceeds benefit Girls Rock Roanoke. Mountain Valley Brewing 4220 Mountain Valley Road, Axton
APPALACHIA
Busted Still Brewing Company 185 Homeplace Drive, Gate City 276.210.6038
Lonesome Pine Brewing Company 15 East Main Street, Lebanon 276.880.0278
Sugar Hill Brewing Company 16622 Broad Street, St. Paul 276.738.1088 • sugarhillbrewing.com
BLUE RIDGE HIGHLANDS
36 Fifty Brewing 120 N. Chestnut Street, Marion 276.706.8550 • 36fiftybrewing.com
7 Dogs Brewpub
360 W. Spring Street, Wytheville 276.228.0994 • 7dogsbrewpubva.com
