A Beverage A View

A Beverage with a View

The Virginia Craft Beverage Market Survives

The year 2020 has been a roller coaster for the Virginia craft beverage market. The COVID-19 crisis changed the way that we all enjoy our favorite craft beverages. From distilled spirits home delivery to cocktails-to-go, Virginians are enjoying drinks in new ways.

As months of this crazy year moved on, many realized that their favorite way to enjoy a beverage is with a view. From the beach and coastal regions to the Blue Ridge Mountains, there is no doubt that Virginia is known for its beautiful sceneries. Even if the view was of a backyard, craft beverage enthusiasts poured a cold beverage and toasted the end of another day.

One thing that Virginians agreed upon was that outdoor dining (and drinking) saved the Summer. As wineries, cideries, breweries, and distilleries re-opened for visitation, most relied on their outdoor space.

What’s going on this Fall? We stopped in to see some of the craft beverage makers we wrote about in past years.

A Glass of Wine Wine trails re-opened across the Commonwealth, including the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail and many

wineries across Virginia in the mountain region on the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail.

But, what was it like to manage a Virginia winery as enthusiasts returned to the tasting rooms? To find out, we visited Chestnut Oak Vineyard to talk with Sarah Leake, Tasting Room Manager. Sarah has experience in the Virginia craft beverage segment and also in the local food market.

Chestnut Oak Vineyard sits in Barboursville, Virginia, and boasts both vineyard and mountain views. It is a family-friendly winery and outside dog friendly too. (with a leash) This year, Sarah has greeted visitors from Richmond, Fredericksburg, and Washington DC. Many are looking to get out of urban environments and visit beautiful Virginia countryside, if only for the afternoon.

As we are writing this story, at the end of September 2020, Sarah is getting ready for October and Virginia’s Wine Month. A few changes have been made to comply with Virginia’s Phase 3 of COVID Guidelines.

Guests may enjoy tasting flights, wine by the glass, and bottles at either indoor or outdoor seating. To comply with guidelines, some previous seating options were removed. The use of the winery-provided seating is first-come, first-served. We enjoyed the flexibility.

Since Sarah has also worked in the local food scene, we were curious to see how Chestnut Oak tackles food pairings during the current COVID guidelines. We were not disappointed as we enjoyed a COVID-friendly cheese plate of pre-wrapped cheeses, crackers, and olives.

A Beer-Centric B&B We first told you about WildManDan

Brewery and the Beer Centric B&B

last year. Tucked away on RT 151 in beautiful Nelson County, this B&B is for beer lovers—and lovers of a great breakfast. Here, you can enjoy

Co-op Curated

100 over 100 different cheeses 150 150 craft beers/ciders/meads–fruit + funky, hoppy, and crispy + malty! 200 a little under 200 wines – 50 from Virginia

your beer in a yard with a great view of vintage, authentic red barn in the country. As night arrives, sit around the campfire and enjoy your family and friends.

In 2021, the B&B will be open and taking reservations for full-house bookings. Depending on the night, the rate is between $500-$700/night for 5 couples. If you are looking for an ideal escape to the country and great beer, you will want to book in advance. We are so glad that there is a plan to re-open the B&B in 2021.

WildManDan has spent several months of this year on the plan to expand beer production. You will want to take a few growlers with you. Today, you can visit WildManDan and pick up some crafted beer.

The Shenandoah Valley Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley is open for business. This Fall, you can enjoy spirits, beer, wine, and cider—all with mountain views. Follow the DW&S Facebook Fan Group Page @DWS Food and Beverage Lovers of Virginia as we post about all the valley’s flavors.

Included in this edition of DW&S Magazine, Valley Pike Farm Market shares their story of cider and pumpkin spice tastings. It is the place to stop to fill all of your picnic needs— including a large selection of Virginia craft beverages. There’s nothing better than a picnic in the valley.

Things Have Changed Yes, things have changed in 2020, especially in the food and beverage market. Just remember, there is a silver lining. Right now, we can get a custom-crafted cocktail to go. There is that…. n