Top 5: Libation Experiences in Virginia

If Virginia is in your travel plans this summer, make sure to stop by one of these five libation experiences for a taste of the Mother of States.

Virginia Whisky Experience Tour

On this tour, visitors learn about the history of single malt whisky in Scotland and its subsequent Virginia past. The one-hour guided tour at the Virginia Distillery Company includes the distillery’s whisky museum, which covers the origins of single malt whisky and its relationship with Nelson County, Virginia; the distillery itself; and the distillery’s visitor’s center for a cocktail sampling.

211 Scenic Vino Wine Trail

If wine is more your taste than whisky, take a scenic drive along Route 211. Travel through Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Drive and Little Washington, all the while discovering a handful of Virginia’s best wineries. Many are pet-friendly and family-friendly, and only small tasting fees apply.

LoCo Ale Trail

Visit beautiful Loudoun County, Virginia, and take the LoCo Ale Trail to visit tasting rooms all over the county, including on farms, in industrial parks and in historic spots. In addition to trying a variety of local ales and beers, you can also sign up for the LoCo Ale Trail passport and, as you visit more breweries, you can win cool prizes, like t-shirts, koozies and coasters.

Shenandoah Spirits Trail

You could spend an entire weekend exploring just the Shenandoah Spirits Trail. With more than 40 vineyards, craft breweries, distilleries and cideries, you can make your way throughout the entire Northern Shenandoah Valley, where the environment and geography is perfect for growing grapes.

Beltway Beer Trail

The largest beer trail in Virginia is the Beltway Beer Trail, with 25 different breweries across Fairfax, Prince William, Manassas, Alexandria, Falls Church and Arlington. The trail is within easy access from Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Philadelphia.