Virginia Distillery Co. Tour — Lovingston, Virginia

Discover the Virginia Distillery Co. Tour in Virginia

Set among the rolling hills of Nelson County, Virginia Distillery Co. offers a premium whisky experience rooted in tradition, craftsmanship, and American single malt innovation. Visitors can explore the production campus, learn how malt whisky is fermented, distilled, and aged, and enjoy a guided tasting featuring some of the distillery’s award-winning expressions.

Why it’s special:
As one of the nation’s leading American Single Malt producers, Virginia Distillery Co. combines Scottish-inspired methods with Virginia-grown ingredients and mountain climate aging. Its outdoor patios, views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and refined tasting environment make this one of the most scenic and educational whisky tours in the region.

History / Story of Virginia Distillery Co.

The distillery was founded by Dr. George G. Moore, whose passion for whisky began in Ireland and evolved into a mission to create world-class American Single Malt in Virginia. After his passing, the Moore family continued his vision, building a state-of-the-art facility in Lovingston. Today, the distillery is known nationally for its Courage & Conviction line and for shaping the modern identity of American Single Malt whisky.

What You’ll See & Do at the Virginia Distillery Co. Tour

• Walk through the brewhouse and learn how barley becomes malt whisky

• See fermentation tanks, copper stills, and the barrel house

• Learn about cask selection, aging, and flavor development

• Enjoy tastings of flagship and seasonal spirits (21+ with ID)

• Relax on the outdoor patios overlooking Nelson County

• Browse the visitors’ center and bottle shop for exclusive releases

Hands-On Elements: Guided sensory tasting, aroma comparison, barley and malt displays.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in most public areas; no flash around production systems.
Souvenirs & Extras: Exclusive whiskies, gift sets, apparel, branded glassware, and local artisan products.

Pricing of the Virginia Distillery Co. Tour

Price: $20 per person, including a guided tasting.
Additional premium tastings or special events may cost more.

Practical Info for Visiting Virginia Distillery Co.

Duration: 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided campus tour with structured whisky tasting
Working Hours (Visitors Center):

• Thursday–Monday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  (Closed Tuesday and Wednesday)

Audience: Adults 21+, whisky enthusiasts, travelers, couples, groups
Accessibility: Indoor and outdoor spaces accessible; some walking on uneven surfaces
Safety & Restrictions: Tastings for 21+ only; valid ID required
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group tastings available; school groups not accepted
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes, ID, weather-appropriate clothing for outdoor sections
Facilities: Visitors center, tasting room, patios, bottle shop, restrooms, parking
Closures: Closed Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and major holidays

Nearby

• Nelson 151 Craft Beverage Trail – Breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries nearby

• Lovingston & Nellysford – Small towns with cafés, markets, and scenic stops

• Blue Ridge Mountains / Skyline Drive – Hiking, overlooks, and outdoor recreation

FAQs About Visiting Virginia Distillery Co.

Do I need a reservation for the tour?
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and holiday periods.

Are tastings included?
Yes — the standard $20 tour includes a guided whisky tasting.

Can I bring children?
Children may visit the property but cannot join the tasting or certain production spaces.

Does the distillery offer food?
Small snacks may be available, but this is primarily a tasting-focused experience.

Are there exclusive bottles available only at the distillery?
Yes — limited-release and distillery-only expressions are frequently offered in the shop.