Alexandria, Virginia, nestled just outside the nation’s capital, has emerged as a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts. This historic city boasts a thriving beer scene with several notable breweries and taprooms offering unique and flavorful brews. Visitors and locals alike can explore a diverse range of craft beers, from traditional styles to innovative creations, at establishments like Port City Brewing Company and Aslin Beer Company.
The city’s beer culture is deeply rooted in its history, with brewing traditions dating back centuries. Today, Alexandria’s craft beer scene reflects both this rich heritage and modern brewing techniques. Beer lovers can embark on self-guided tours, visiting multiple pubs and restaurants throughout the city to sample local and regional craft beers.
Alexandria’s proximity to Washington D.C. enhances its appeal as a beer destination, attracting beer enthusiasts from across the region. The city’s breweries and taprooms often showcase the talents of local brewers, offering visitors a taste of Alexandria’s unique brewing identity. With its charming atmosphere and quality craft beer offerings, Alexandria has solidified its place as a must-visit location for beer aficionados.
History of Brewing in Alexandria
Alexandria’s brewing history dates back to the Civil War era. The city was home to the Robert Portner Brewing Company, also known as the Tivoli Brewery, which operated from 1862 to 1916.
Robert Portner introduced lager beer to Alexandria and Virginia. This new style required different yeast and colder fermentation temperatures compared to the popular ales and porters of the time.
The Robert Portner Brewing Company became the largest pre-Prohibition brewery in the South. It played a significant role in U.S. brewing history, helping establish Alexandria as a notable brewing center.
During the Civil War, Alexandria experienced a rapid but temporary expansion in its local brewing industry. This growth laid the foundation for the city’s future as a brewing hub.
The brewery’s success came to an end when Virginia passed the 18th Amendment. Prohibition forced the closure of the Robert Portner Brewing Company in 1916, marking the end of Alexandria’s pre-Prohibition brewing era.
Today, Alexandria is experiencing a revival of its brewing tradition. New craft breweries are emerging, allowing residents and visitors to reconnect with the city’s rich brewing heritage.
Guide to Local Breweries
Alexandria’s craft beer scene offers a diverse array of flavors and experiences. The city’s breweries showcase unique brewing techniques, creative recipes, and welcoming taprooms for beer enthusiasts to explore.
Port City Brewing Company
Port City Brewing Company stands as Alexandria’s premier craft brewery. Founded in 2011, it has quickly become a cornerstone of the local beer culture. The brewery specializes in award-winning ales and lagers, including their flagship Optimal Wit and Monumental IPA.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the brewing facility, learning about the beer-making process firsthand. The spacious tasting room features a rotating selection of seasonal and limited-release brews alongside their core offerings.
Port City’s commitment to quality and innovation has earned them numerous accolades, including Small Brewing Company of the Year at the Great American Beer Festival.
Aslin Beer Company
Aslin Beer Company brings a modern twist to Alexandria’s beer scene. Known for their bold, hop-forward IPAs and experimental styles, Aslin has gained a dedicated following among craft beer enthusiasts.
The brewery’s taproom features a sleek, industrial design with ample seating and a constantly rotating tap list. Visitors can expect to find an array of hazy IPAs, fruited sours, and barrel-aged stouts.
Aslin’s creative approach to brewing extends to their can designs, featuring vibrant artwork that matches the boldness of their beers. The brewery often collaborates with other respected craft brewers, resulting in unique and limited-edition releases.
Lost Boy Cider
While not technically a brewery, Lost Boy Cider offers a refreshing alternative for beer lovers seeking something different. As Alexandria’s first urban cidery, Lost Boy produces a range of craft hard ciders using locally sourced apples.
The cidery’s taproom provides a cozy, rustic atmosphere where visitors can sample various cider styles. From dry and crisp to sweet and fruity, Lost Boy’s offerings cater to diverse palates.
Guided tours are available, giving insight into the cider-making process and the differences between beer and cider production. The cidery also hosts events and food truck visits, enhancing the tasting experience.
Mieza Blendery
Mieza Blendery represents a unique addition to Alexandria’s beer landscape, specializing in mixed fermentation and barrel-aged sour beers. This small-batch brewery focuses on crafting complex, nuanced flavors through careful blending and aging techniques.
The tasting room offers a intimate setting where beer connoisseurs can explore the world of sour and wild ales. Mieza’s creations often feature local fruits and botanicals, showcasing the flavors of Virginia.
Visitors can expect a rotating selection of limited-release bottles and draft options. The brewery’s knowledgeable staff provides guidance on the various styles and flavor profiles, making it an educational experience for those new to sour beers.
Craft Beer Bars and Taprooms
Alexandria boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with several exceptional bars and taprooms. These establishments offer diverse selections of local and international brews in unique atmospheres.
Rustico Restaurant
Rustico Restaurant stands out as a premier craft beer destination in Alexandria. The venue features an impressive 400-bottle beer list and 30 rotating taps. Beer enthusiasts can explore a wide range of styles, from classic lagers to experimental sours.
Rustico’s knowledgeable staff provides expert recommendations to pair beers with their menu of wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes. The restaurant hosts regular beer events, including tap takeovers and meet-the-brewer nights.
The spacious interior features exposed brick walls and a lively bar area. Outdoor seating is available in warmer months, perfect for enjoying a cold brew on a sunny day.
Pizzeria Paradiso
Pizzeria Paradiso combines exceptional craft beer with artisanal pizzas. The bar offers 14 rotating taps and over 200 bottled beers, focusing on small-batch and hard-to-find brews.
Beer flights allow patrons to sample multiple offerings. The bar staff is well-versed in beer styles and can guide customers to new discoveries based on their preferences.
The restaurant’s Neapolitan-style pizzas provide an ideal complement to the beer selection. Regular “Tap Takeover” events showcase specific breweries, offering a deep dive into their portfolios.
Pizzeria Paradiso’s cozy interior and warm lighting create an inviting atmosphere for beer lovers and pizza enthusiasts alike.
Department of Beer and Wine
Department of Beer and Wine serves as both a retail shop and tasting room. The venue offers an extensive selection of craft beers from local Virginia breweries and around the world.
Customers can purchase bottles to take home or enjoy on-site in the tasting area. The shop regularly rotates its draft selection, ensuring fresh options for repeat visitors.
Beer education is a focus, with staff members providing detailed information about beer styles and brewing processes. The shop hosts frequent tasting events, allowing patrons to sample new releases and meet brewery representatives.
The casual, no-frills atmosphere emphasizes the quality of the beer selection rather than fancy decor.
Brabo Tasting Room
Brabo Tasting Room, part of the Lorien Hotel & Spa, offers a more upscale craft beer experience. The venue features a carefully curated list of local and international craft beers.
The draft list rotates regularly, showcasing seasonal offerings and limited releases. Bottle options include rare and aged beers for the discerning connoisseur.
Brabo’s expert bartenders can guide patrons through beer and food pairings, enhancing the tasting experience. The menu features Belgian-inspired dishes that complement the beer selection.
The tasting room’s elegant yet comfortable atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for both casual drinks and special occasions. Outdoor seating provides a pleasant option for enjoying craft beers in fine weather.
Dining with Craft Beer Pairings
Alexandria offers excellent options for pairing craft beers with delicious meals. Local restaurants serve up tasty dishes perfectly complemented by flavorful brews.
Lost Dog Cafe
Lost Dog Cafe Alexandria stands out for its extensive craft beer selection and creative pizza combinations. The cafe offers over 50 rotating taps featuring local and regional craft beers.
Their signature pizzas pair wonderfully with various beer styles. Try the “Rin Tin Tin” pizza with a hoppy IPA to balance the rich meats and cheeses. For a lighter option, the “Pointer” pizza matches well with a crisp pilsner or wheat beer.
Lost Dog also serves sandwiches and salads with suggested beer pairings listed on the menu. Beer flights allow guests to sample multiple brews alongside their meal.
Del Ray Pizzeria
Del Ray Pizzeria combines gourmet pizzas with an impressive craft beer list. The restaurant features 20 taps and over 100 bottled beers, focusing on local Virginia breweries.
Their wood-fired pizzas offer unique flavor combinations that shine when paired with the right beer. The spicy “Firebird” pizza pairs beautifully with a malty amber ale to temper the heat. For a classic Margherita, try a crisp lager to complement the fresh basil and tomatoes.
Del Ray Pizzeria hosts regular beer events and tap takeovers, giving patrons opportunities to try limited-release brews alongside their favorite pies.
Seafood Pairings
Alexandria’s proximity to the Chesapeake Bay means excellent seafood options for beer lovers. Several local restaurants specialize in seafood and craft beer pairings.
Hank’s Oyster Bar offers a curated selection of craft beers to accompany their fresh oysters and seafood dishes. Try a light wheat beer or crisp pilsner with raw oysters to enhance their briny flavor. For richer dishes like their lobster roll, opt for a Belgian-style ale or farmhouse saison.
Virtue Feed & Grain pairs their extensive beer list with seafood-centric pub fare. Their fish and chips match perfectly with a traditional English-style bitter or ESB. For crab cakes, choose a citrusy pale ale to cut through the richness.
Retail Outlets for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
Alexandria offers several notable retail options for craft beer lovers. These stores provide extensive selections of local and international brews, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
Planet Wine
Planet Wine stands out as a premier destination for craft beer enthusiasts in Alexandria. This shop boasts an impressive array of craft beers from local Virginia breweries and around the world. Customers can find rare and limited-edition releases alongside popular favorites.
The knowledgeable staff provides expert recommendations tailored to individual preferences. Planet Wine regularly hosts tasting events, allowing patrons to sample new and exciting brews. The store’s layout makes it easy to browse and discover new offerings.
Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods Market in Alexandria features a robust craft beer section. The store prioritizes local and regional breweries, showcasing the best of Virginia’s craft beer scene. Customers can create their own six-packs, enabling exploration of various styles and brands.
The beer department frequently rotates its selection, ensuring fresh and seasonal options. Whole Foods also offers growler fills from a rotating tap list of craft beers. Staff members are well-versed in beer styles and can assist customers in making informed choices.
Craft Beer Events and Festivals
Alexandria’s craft beer scene comes alive through various events and festivals throughout the year. Beer enthusiasts can explore local brews and connect with fellow aficionados at these gatherings.
The Portside in Old Town Summer Festival kicks off the season with live music and craft beer from Port City Brewing Company. This free event takes place at Waterfront Park, offering a perfect blend of summer fun and local flavors.
Aslin Beer Company hosts paint parties, combining creativity with craft beer tasting. These events allow attendees to unleash their artistic side while enjoying unique brews in a relaxed atmosphere.
For those seeking friendly competition, Beer Olympics events occasionally pop up in Alexandria. These gatherings test participants’ skills in beer-related games and challenges.
The Alexandria Visitors Center can provide information on upcoming beer festivals and events. They offer resources to help both locals and tourists navigate the city’s vibrant craft beer culture.
While not specific to Alexandria, the Great American Beer Festival influences the local scene. Many Alexandria breweries strive to create beers worthy of recognition at this prestigious national event.
Trivia nights at local breweries like Benchtop Brewing and MoMac Brewing Co. offer a chance to test knowledge while sampling craft beers. These recurring events blend entertainment with beer appreciation.
Self-Guided Walking Tour of Alexandria’s Beer Scene
Alexandria’s Historic Breweries Walking Tour offers beer enthusiasts a unique way to explore the city’s rich brewing heritage. This self-guided adventure combines history and hops, allowing visitors to discover Alexandria’s beer scene at their own pace.
The tour features 15 pubs and restaurants, each offering a taste of local craft beer. Participants can pick up a guide at the Alexandria Visitors Center or participating establishments.
As beer lovers stroll through Old Town Alexandria, they’ll encounter historical sites and modern breweries. The tour map highlights key locations, making navigation simple and enjoyable.
Along the route, walkers can sample a variety of craft beers from local breweries. Each stop provides an opportunity to taste unique flavors and learn about brewing techniques.
The tour not only satisfies thirst but also educates participants about Alexandria’s brewing history. Informational panels throughout the route offer insights into the city’s beer-making past.
This self-guided experience allows flexibility, letting visitors spend as much time as they like at each location. It’s an ideal way to explore Alexandria’s craft beer scene while taking in the city’s historic charm.
