Virginia Beach boasts a thriving craft beer scene that’s captivating locals and visitors alike. The coastal city’s breweries offer a diverse array of flavors, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, reflecting the vibrant culture and laid-back atmosphere of this seaside destination. Beer enthusiasts can explore over a dozen local breweries in Virginia Beach, each showcasing unique brews and inviting taprooms.
These craft beer establishments are spread throughout the city, from the bustling Oceanfront to the quieter neighborhoods inland. Many Virginia Beach breweries pride themselves on using locally-sourced ingredients, creating beers that truly capture the essence of Coastal Virginia. Visitors can embark on a beer trail adventure, sampling distinctive offerings at each stop and experiencing the passion local brewers pour into every pint.
History of the Virginia Beach Craft Beer Movement
Virginia Beach’s craft beer scene has experienced remarkable growth in recent years. The city’s brewing tradition dates back to colonial times, but the modern craft beer movement took off in the mid-1990s.
In the early days, only a handful of breweries operated in the area. These pioneers laid the foundation for what would become a thriving industry.
The 2000s saw a steady increase in new breweries opening their doors. Local entrepreneurs and beer enthusiasts recognized the potential for unique, flavorful brews in the coastal city.
By the 2010s, Virginia Beach’s craft beer scene was in full swing. The number of breweries grew exponentially, with each offering distinctive styles and flavors.
Today, Virginia Beach boasts over a dozen craft breweries. These establishments range from small microbreweries to larger production facilities with taprooms.
Key factors contributing to the movement’s success include:
- Supportive local community
- Tourism industry
- Favorable regulations
- Growing appreciation for artisanal products
Virginia Beach breweries have garnered recognition for their innovative approaches and high-quality beers. Many have won awards at regional and national competitions.
The craft beer movement has become an integral part of Virginia Beach’s culture and economy. It continues to evolve, with new breweries and beer styles emerging regularly.
Top Breweries in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with several standout breweries. These local establishments offer unique flavors, inviting atmospheres, and innovative brewing techniques that appeal to beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Smartmouth Brewing Co
Smartmouth Brewing Co‘s Pilot House location in Virginia Beach is a popular spot for craft beer lovers. Known for their experimental brews, they offer a rotating selection of unique flavors alongside their core lineup. The taproom features a laid-back atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating.
Smartmouth’s flagship beers include the Safety Dance Pilsner and Alter Ego Saison. They also produce seasonal and limited-release beers that showcase creative ingredients and brewing methods. The brewery hosts regular events, including live music and food truck visits, making it a lively destination for locals and tourists.
Commonwealth Brewing Co
Located in a renovated fire station, Commonwealth Brewing Co combines history with modern brewing techniques. Their spacious taproom and outdoor beer garden provide ample space for visitors to enjoy their diverse beer selection.
Commonwealth is renowned for their hazy IPAs and barrel-aged stouts. Popular offerings include Big Papi Double IPA and Marvolo Imperial Stout. The brewery also experiments with sour beers and fruit-infused ales, appealing to a wide range of palates.
New Realm Brewing Company
New Realm Brewing Company’s Virginia Beach location offers a full-service restaurant alongside their brewery. The expansive facility includes a taproom, restaurant, and outdoor beer garden with views of the Lynnhaven Inlet.
Their beer lineup features a mix of classic styles and innovative creations. Flagship brews include the Hazy Like a Fox IPA and Euphonia Pilsner. New Realm also offers seasonal releases and collaborations with other breweries, keeping their selection fresh and exciting.
Reaver Beach Brewing Company
As one of the oldest craft breweries in Virginia Beach, Reaver Beach Brewing Company has built a loyal following. Their taproom offers a cozy, nautical-themed atmosphere that reflects the coastal location.
Reaver Beach is known for their balanced approach to brewing, offering a range of styles from light lagers to robust stouts. Popular beers include the Hoptopus Double IPA and Sea Devil Stout. The brewery also produces limited-release beers that showcase local ingredients and innovative brewing techniques.
Young Veterans Brewing Co
Founded by two Iraq War veterans, Young Veterans Brewing Co brings a unique perspective to the Virginia Beach beer scene. Their military-themed taproom creates a distinctive atmosphere for visitors.
Young Veterans’ beer lineup includes cleverly named brews like the Pineapple Grenade Hefeweizen and Jet Noise Double IPA. The brewery focuses on creating approachable beers that appeal to both craft beer enthusiasts and newcomers to the scene. They also host regular events, including trivia nights and live music performances.
A Guide to the Virginia Beach Beer Trail
The VA Beach Beer Trail offers craft beer enthusiasts a taste of the thriving local beer scene. This collection of unique breweries spans from the Chesapeake Bay District to the Oceanfront, showcasing Virginia Beach’s diverse brewing talents.
Visitors can explore a variety of beer styles along the trail. From hoppy IPAs to complex barrel-aged sours, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
The trail includes several notable stops:
- Back Bay Brewing Co. (Oceanfront)
- Commonwealth Brewing Company
- Reaver Beach Brewing Co.
- Young Veterans Brewing Company
Each brewery on the trail offers its own distinctive atmosphere and specialty brews. Some feature outdoor seating, while others provide cozy taprooms perfect for sampling flights.
Beer lovers can pick up a VA Beach Beer Trail guide to help navigate the various locations. This resource provides information on each brewery’s hours, specialties, and any unique offerings.
Many breweries along the trail offer tours, giving visitors insight into the brewing process and the stories behind their favorite beers. Some even host special events or release limited-edition brews throughout the year.
The VA Beach Beer Trail not only celebrates local craftsmanship but also contributes to the area’s growing reputation as a destination for beer tourism. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Virginia Beach’s craft beer culture.
Unique Offerings at Virginia Beach Breweries
Virginia Beach breweries showcase an impressive array of distinctive craft beers and culinary pairings. Local brewmasters consistently push boundaries with innovative recipes and techniques, resulting in unforgettable flavor profiles.
Specialty IPA Selections
Virginia Beach breweries excel at crafting unique IPAs. The Wapatoolie Tropical IPA stands out with its vibrant blend of tropical fruit notes and hoppy bitterness. Many local breweries experiment with fruit-infused IPAs, incorporating flavors like pineapple, mango, and citrus.
Some establishments offer rotating taps of seasonal IPAs, allowing visitors to sample limited-edition brews throughout the year. Double and triple IPAs are also popular, catering to hop enthusiasts seeking bolder flavors and higher alcohol content.
Breweries often host IPA-focused events, giving patrons the opportunity to compare different styles and vote on their favorites.
Exclusive Lagers and Stouts
Virginia Beach’s craft beer scene boasts an impressive selection of lagers and stouts. The Euphonia Pilsner represents a local take on the classic Czech-style lager, offering a crisp and refreshing option for beer lovers.
Breweries in the area produce a variety of stouts, ranging from traditional dry Irish stouts to more adventurous variations. Coffee stouts, chocolate stouts, and oatmeal stouts are common offerings.
Imperial stouts aged in bourbon barrels have gained popularity, providing rich, complex flavors perfect for sipping on cooler evenings. Some breweries also experiment with fruit-infused stouts, creating unique flavor combinations like cherry chocolate or coconut vanilla.
Artisan Pizza and German Shepheweizen
Several Virginia Beach breweries have embraced the concept of pairing craft beer with artisanal food offerings. Wood-fired pizzas topped with locally-sourced ingredients complement the diverse beer selection at many establishments.
The German Shepheweizen, a clever play on words, combines the traditional German hefeweizen style with a nod to the popular dog breed. This wheat beer often features notes of banana and clove, characteristic of the style.
Some breweries offer beer and pizza pairing events, guiding visitors through complementary flavor combinations. Creative pizza toppings like prosciutto and fig or butternut squash and sage reflect the innovative spirit of the local beer scene.
Barrel-Aged Sours and Small-Batch Brews
Virginia Beach breweries have embraced the trend of barrel-aged sours, producing complex and tart beers that appeal to adventurous palates. These sours often age in oak barrels for months or even years, developing unique flavors and aromas.
Small-batch brews allow brewers to experiment with unconventional ingredients and techniques. Limited releases of these experimental beers create excitement among craft beer enthusiasts.
Many breweries offer tasting flights of their sour beers, allowing visitors to compare different styles and aging processes. Some establishments have dedicated sour beer programs, consistently producing new and interesting variations on the style.
The Experience: Tasting Rooms and Brewery Tours
Virginia Beach’s craft beer scene offers immersive experiences through vibrant taprooms and informative brewery tours. Visitors can explore unique flavors and learn about the brewing process firsthand.
Taproom Exploration
Virginia Beach breweries boast inviting taprooms that showcase their craft beers. Many feature both indoor and outdoor seating areas, allowing guests to enjoy their drinks in comfortable settings year-round. Outdoor spaces often include beer gardens or patios, perfect for sunny days.
Taprooms typically offer flights, allowing patrons to sample multiple beers in smaller portions. This is ideal for discovering new favorites or comparing different styles. Some breweries also provide food menus or host food trucks to complement their beer offerings.
Tasting rooms frequently rotate their tap lists, ensuring repeat visitors always have something new to try. Many breweries also sell merchandise and to-go beer options, including growlers and cans.
Guided Brewery Tours
Brewery tours in Virginia Beach provide an educational and entertaining experience for beer enthusiasts. These tours often include visits to multiple breweries, offering a comprehensive look at the local craft beer scene.
Guided tours typically last 3-4 hours and may include transportation between locations. Participants learn about the brewing process, ingredients used, and the history of each brewery. Some tours offer behind-the-scenes access to production areas.
Many tours include tastings at each stop, allowing guests to sample a variety of local brews. Knowledgeable guides share insights about beer styles, flavor profiles, and food pairings. Some tours also incorporate local history and culture, providing a well-rounded experience.
Events and Community Engagement
Virginia Beach’s craft beer scene thrives on lively events and strong community ties. Local breweries host a variety of gatherings that showcase the area’s vibrant culture and rich history.
Live Music and Food Trucks
Many Virginia Beach breweries feature live music performances, creating a dynamic atmosphere for beer enthusiasts. Local bands and solo artists entertain crowds with diverse genres, from rock to acoustic sets. Food trucks often park outside, offering tasty pairings with craft brews.
Commonwealth Brewing Company regularly hosts live music events on their spacious outdoor patio. Visitors can enjoy cold beers while listening to talented musicians. The brewery also welcomes food trucks, providing a range of culinary options to complement their beer selection.
Pleasure House Brewing focuses on building strong community relationships. They offer a welcoming space with games like foosball and darts, encouraging social interaction among patrons. The brewery’s events calendar includes trivia nights and other engaging activities.
WWII-Themed Artwork and Events
Some Virginia Beach breweries incorporate historical themes into their spaces and events. WWII-inspired artwork and memorabilia can be found adorning the walls of select taprooms, paying homage to the area’s military heritage.
Breweries may organize special events centered around historical themes. These gatherings often feature themed beer releases, period-appropriate music, and educational components about local history. Such events attract history buffs and beer lovers alike.
Local breweries collaborate with veterans’ organizations to host fundraisers and awareness events. These initiatives strengthen the bond between the craft beer community and Virginia Beach’s military population.
Sourcing and Sustainability
Virginia Beach breweries are embracing local ingredient sourcing and sustainability practices. Many craft brewers in the area prioritize using locally-grown hops, grains, and fruits in their beers.
This commitment to local ingredients not only supports Coastal Virginia farmers but also results in unique, terroir-driven flavors in the microbrews. Small-batch brewing allows for experimentation with seasonal produce and foraged ingredients.
Several breweries partner with nearby farms to recycle spent grains as livestock feed. This reduces waste and creates a circular economy within the local food system.
Some Virginia Beach brewers have implemented water conservation measures and energy-efficient brewing equipment. These practices help minimize the environmental impact of beer production.
Sustainability efforts extend to packaging as well. Many local breweries use recyclable cans or offer refillable growlers to reduce single-use waste.
By focusing on sourcing and sustainability, Virginia Beach’s craft beer scene is creating positive change in the community. Beer enthusiasts can enjoy fresh, flavorful brews while supporting environmentally-conscious businesses.
Taking Virginia Beach Craft Beer Home
Virginia Beach breweries offer convenient options for beer enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite local brews at home. Visitors can take home fresh draft beer in various portable containers.
Growlers and Crowlers To Go
Many Virginia Beach breweries provide growlers and crowlers for customers to purchase and fill with their preferred craft beers. Growlers are reusable glass or stainless steel containers, typically holding 64 ounces of beer. They allow patrons to enjoy draft beer at home while maintaining its freshness.
Crowlers have gained popularity as a more portable alternative. These 32-ounce aluminum cans are filled and sealed on-site, preserving the beer’s flavor and carbonation. Crowlers are lightweight, recyclable, and protect the beer from light exposure.
Some breweries offer crowler machines that can their beers fresh for customers to take home. This allows beer lovers to enjoy a wider variety of Virginia Beach craft brews beyond their visit to the brewery.
When purchasing growlers or crowlers, it’s important to consume the beer within a few days to ensure optimal taste and quality. Proper storage in a cool, dark place will help maintain the beer’s freshness.
Craft Beer Glossary
Craft beer enthusiasts often use specialized terminology to describe their favorite brews. This glossary covers some common terms encountered in the world of craft beer.
ABV: Alcohol By Volume, the percentage of alcohol in a beer.
IBU: International Bitterness Units, measuring the bitterness of a beer.
Hops: Flowers used to add bitterness, flavor, and aroma to beer.
Malt: Germinated and dried cereal grains used in brewing.
Yeast: Microorganisms that ferment sugars in beer, producing alcohol and carbonation.
Types of Beer:
- IPA: India Pale Ale, known for its hoppy flavor
- Stout: Dark beer made with roasted malt or barley
- Lager: Beer fermented and conditioned at low temperatures
- Sour: Beer with intentionally tart or acidic flavors
Barrel-aged: Beer aged in wooden barrels, often imparting unique flavors.
Dry-hopping: Adding hops after fermentation for enhanced aroma.
Session beer: Low-alcohol beer suitable for extended drinking sessions.
Cicerone: A certified beer expert, similar to a wine sommelier.
Understanding these terms can enhance the craft beer experience, allowing enthusiasts to better appreciate and discuss their favorite brews.
