From our origins as the Birthplace of American Spirits dating back to the 1600s to more than 70 operating distilleries across the Commonwealth today, there are so many stories of innovation, creativity and perseverance left to be told. We’ll dive into the rich history of spirits-making in Virginia, the innovation of today, the local creations worth trying and the entrepreneurs and artisans that make #VaSpirits a vibrant community for all.

So, Why Now?

The Virginia legislature established the Virginia Spirits Board (VSB) in 2020. As one of 16 commodity boards within the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), the Board fosters development of the Virginia spirits industry by expanding spirits research, increasing education and promoting the growing of grains and the production of spirits in the Commonwealth. 

In early 2023, the VSB announced the establishment of the Virginia Spirits Board Marketing Office (VSBMO), a promotional extension of the Board, designed to provide an array of services to elevate the profile and awareness of Virginia-made spirits. 

The Virginia Spirits Blog, along with social media (@VaSpirits) and our website, is designed to be an educational, fun, and helpful resource as you navigate and discover all that the local craft spirits community has to offer.

It’s also our favorite time of year…

September is Virginia Spirits Month

The air becomes crisp, new colors are painted across the Commonwealth’s landscape and it’s Virginia Spirits Month – the perfect time to get out and explore what’s happening in your own backyard. 

This year, we’re making it easier than ever to enjoy: 

• Take 20% off most Virginia spirits for the entire month of September, in Virginia ABC stores and in distillery tasting rooms. This is the ideal time to try that bottle you were curious about, stock up for your home bar or start early on your gift list ahead of the holidays!
• Sign up for the Virginia Spirits Passport, and earn points just for visiting distilleries across the Commonwealth! Points can be redeemed for one-of-a-kind local prizes – from Virginia Spirits swag to shrubs, bar tools and even chances to win weekend getaways. There’s two remaining Virginia Spirits Expos in 2023, and you’ll earn double when you check in at an Expo (tickets sold separately)! 
• New updates to VirginiaSpirits.org means you’re able to search, sort and develop the itinerary of your craft spirits dreams! Start adding your favorites today, and save your route by emailing it to yourself or sharing to Facebook. 
• Find the first-of-its-kind Virginia Spirits Guide in Virginia Welcome Centers near you! Or pick up a copy during one of your visits to a Virginia distillery. You can also have one sent right to you, just fill out this form.

More to come…

This is only the beginning for the Virginia Spirits Blog! Stay tuned for a series of regional guides that outline which distilleries to explore, nearby eateries and activities and places for an overnight stay to extend your visit. Your endless exploration awaits!