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Discover the Copper Fox Distillery Tour in Virginia

Visit Copper Fox Distillery in Sperryville for one of the most unique whiskey tours in the United States. Known for its original techniques — including on-site floor malting and applewood or cherrywood smoke seasoning — Copper Fox offers an immersive look at how truly craft spirits are made. Guests explore the distillery, learn about wood-fired malting, and enjoy a guided tasting inside a rustic, historic setting.

Why it’s special:
Copper Fox was the first distillery in the U.S. to build its process around fruitwood-smoked malt. Its hands-on, old-world approach and distinctive flavors make it a must-visit for whiskey lovers looking for something beyond traditional bourbon and rye.

History / Story of Copper Fox Distillery

Founded by Rick Wasmund in 2005, Copper Fox Distillery began with the vision of bringing malt whiskey production — including traditional floor malting — back to Virginia. Inspired by Scottish malt houses but determined to innovate, Copper Fox introduced fruitwood-smoking to create one-of-a-kind American whiskies. The Sperryville location, housed in a restored woolen mill complex, remains the flagship distillery and the heart of Copper Fox’s experimental and handcrafted spirit-making.

What You’ll See & Do at the Copper Fox Distillery Tour

Learn about floor malting — a rare, traditional practice done entirely on-site
See how malt is smoked over fruitwood to create Copper Fox’s signature flavors
Walk through distillation areas featuring custom copper pot stills
Explore barrel-aging rooms and learn how different woods impact flavor
Enjoy a guided tasting featuring several spirits (21+ with valid ID)
Relax in the rustic tasting room or outdoor spaces afterward

Hands-On Elements: Aroma samples, malt-handling demonstrations, tasting session.
Photo/Video Policy: Photos welcome in most indoor and outdoor areas; avoid flash near equipment.
Souvenirs & Extras: Bottles, limited releases, tasting sets, apparel, local crafts, and whiskey-related gifts.

Pricing of the Copper Fox Distillery Tour

Price: $15–$20 per person depending on tasting selection.
This includes a guided tour and a curated tasting flight.

Practical Info for Visiting Copper Fox Distillery (Sperryville)

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

Monday–Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Audience: Whiskey lovers, craft spirit fans, couples, small groups, road-trippers
Accessibility: Some uneven historic flooring; most spaces accessible
Safety & Restrictions: Tastings for ages 21+ only; ID required
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group tours available by reservation; school tours not offered
What to Bring/Wear: ID, comfortable shoes; dress for rustic indoor/outdoor transitions
Facilities: Tasting room, outdoor seating, retail shop, parking
Closures: Closed Mondays–Wednesdays; may close for private events

Nearby

Shenandoah National Park / Skyline Drive – Premier hiking and scenic overlooks
Little Washington – Destination dining and boutique shops
Sperryville village – Small-town charm with cafés, galleries, and craft stores