Charlottesville has always been the place for Wineries. Breweries followed closely behind, with several breweries popping up over the past ten or so years. Now, the distillery business is expanding as well. If you are a lover of spirits, there are great spots for you to sip and enjoy in C’Ville- most of them pretty new. We’re featuring three that are close to the Inn, and either in town or just outside of it!
Ragged Branch – This distillery is in Ivy- less than an easy, 20 minute drive from the 
Inn. The view is absolutely breathtaking- a mountain view that really is unbeatable by anywhere else this close to the Inn. You can sit on the patio and enjoy the view (pictured at the top of this post), or you can enjoy the lovely tasting room inside. There is both an outdoor and indoor bar for you to order your spirits. They specialize in Virginia Bourbon made from local ingredients, and mix up delightful cocktails that bring out the taste of their hand crafted bourbons.
To feed your hunger while you sip, they typically feature a special lunch menu item each week that uses their mash-fed beef that they raise right onsite. Read more about this unique craft brewery on their website.
Spirit Lab – Pretty new to the scene, Spirit Lab has released a Single Malt Whiskey and an Amaro that you can try. Soon, they will be releasing a gin as well. This distillery is unique with their entire process being by hand, from mashing to bottling. All of their labels are also hand designed and hand printed works of art. Their little tasting room is great for a more casual feel to enjoy a cocktail downtown, on 6th Street SE, with a bright red door to welcome you in!
Vitae Spirits – With several Rums, Liquors, and a gin to try, Vitae has a variety of spirits you can enjoy. This tasting room is also located near downtown and has a modern feel. We suggest trying one of their hand crafted cocktails – they even release new cocktails through events you can attend each month. They host cocktail “mixology” classes as well- check out all of their events on their Facebook page!
With these three great distilleries that have opened up in C’Ville over the past few years, there is a spot for any type of spirit you enjoy! Which spot looks most enticing to you? We’d love to know!
