A. Smith Bowman Distillery Tour — Fredericksburg, Virginia

Discover the A. Smith Bowman Distillery Tour in Virginia

Explore one of Virginia’s oldest and most award-winning distilleries at A. Smith Bowman in Fredericksburg. This behind-the-scenes experience walks guests through the grain-to-glass process behind Bowman’s bourbons, gins, and limited releases. Visitors tour the production floor, see the copper stills up close, learn about aging and barreling, and finish with a guided tasting in the historic distillery.

Why it’s special:
A. Smith Bowman produces small-batch spirits with deep heritage and meticulous craftsmanship. The free tour is one of the best-known distillery experiences in Virginia, blending history, master distilling, and a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

History / Story of A. Smith Bowman Distillery

A. Smith Bowman purchased a farm in Fairfax County in the 1930s, establishing what became Virginia’s only legal distillery after Prohibition. Decades later, the operation moved to Fredericksburg, where the family’s tradition of small-batch bourbon and craft distilling continued. Today, the distillery is known for award-winning bourbons produced in limited, carefully monitored batches, honoring the Bowman legacy while embracing modern innovation.

What You’ll See & Do at the A. Smith Bowman Distillery Tour

• Step inside the historic distillery and learn its Prohibition-era origins

• Walk through the production areas and witness key stages of distillation

• View the impressive copper stills, fermenters, and barrel-aging spaces

• Learn how grain, yeast, and Virginia water shape the flavor of Bowman spirits

• Discover the differences between Bowman’s bourbons, gins, and specialty releases

• Finish with a guided tasting of select spirits for guests 21+

Hands-On Elements: Guided tasting, sensory evaluation, ingredient displays.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in most areas; avoid flash near equipment.
Souvenirs & Extras: Full retail shop with bottles, limited editions, glassware, apparel, and gifts.

Pricing of the A. Smith Bowman Distillery Tour

Price: Free, including the guided tour and tasting (ages 21+ for sampling).

Practical Info for Visiting A. Smith Bowman Distillery

Duration: 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided tour with tasting
Working Hours:

• Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  (Tour times vary and must be reserved in advance. Closed Sundays.)

Audience: Adults, bourbon lovers, spirit enthusiasts, travelers, small groups
Accessibility: Most indoor areas accessible; flat concrete surfaces throughout
Safety & Restrictions: Tastings for ages 21+ only; valid ID required
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group reservations available; school groups not accepted
What to Bring/Wear: Valid ID, comfortable shoes
Facilities: Tasting room, retail shop, restrooms, parking
Closures: Closed Sundays and major holidays

Nearby

• Old Town Fredericksburg – Shopping, dining, Colonial-era sites

• Fredericksburg Battlefield – Civil War history and scenic trails

• Central Park Marketplace – Restaurants and shopping for before or after your tour

FAQs About Visiting A. Smith Bowman Distillery

Do I need a reservation for the tour?
Yes, reservations are required because tour spots fill quickly.

Are tastings included?
Yes — the complimentary tasting concludes the tour for visitors age 21+.

Can children attend the tour?
Children may attend the tour with adults but will not be permitted to sample spirits.

Is parking available on-site?
Yes, the distillery offers free parking for all visitors.

Do they offer limited or seasonal releases?
Yes, the gift shop frequently features special small-batch bottles available only at the distillery.