Craft Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries That Put West Virginia on the Map
Nestled along the banks of the Kanawha River, the city of Charleston serves as an inviting gateway to West Virginia’s burgeoning craft beverage scene. Just a short drive from the state capital, the Bridge Road Market Brewery stands out with its blend of industrial charm and innovative brewing techniques. Visitors can sample a rotating selection of small-batch ales and lagers that highlight local ingredients, often paired with lively community events in the taproom. The brewery’s location near Haddad Riverfront Park means you can enjoy a scenic stroll along the river before or after your tasting, especially vibrant in the crisp air of early fall when the trees burst into color.
Heading east toward Shepherdstown, a charming town about 90 minutes northwest of Washington, D.C., you’ll find the Washington Street Brewing Company. Known for its historic brick building and inviting outdoor patio, this brewpub offers a distinct mix of traditional and experimental brews. The brewery’s use of heritage grains and native hops gives its beers a flavor profile that deeply connects with the region’s agricultural roots. After sampling a pint, visitors often explore nearby Shepherdstown’s historic district, with its well-preserved colonial architecture and lively arts scene, providing a full cultural experience. Springtime visits bring a lively energy with local festivals and fresh foliage lining the Potomac River.
On the southern edge of the state, in the foothills near Beckley, the Appalachian Brewing Company’s original location is a must-stop. About 90 minutes southeast of Charleston, this brewery has been a pioneer in the state’s craft scene, known for its flagship Mountain Lager as well as seasonal brews named after local landmarks. The cozy setting includes a rustic taproom adorned with local Appalachian art. Visitors can pair their drinks with elevated pub fare featuring game meats sourced from the region. This area is particularly appealing in winter, when the nearby New River Gorge’s snow-capped cliffs create a dramatic backdrop, encouraging visitors to warm up inside with a rich stout or spiced ale.
Traveling west toward Huntington, a vibrant university town along the Ohio River, one encounters the Black Sheep Burrito & Brews. Located about 20 minutes from downtown Huntington, this spot uniquely blends Mexican-inspired cuisine with a robust selection of local craft beers. The brewery’s house brews often feature bold flavors that stand up well to their signature spicy burritos. After enjoying a meal, visitors can explore Huntington’s Pullman Square district or take a short drive to Ritter Park, a beautifully manicured green space with walking trails and a rose garden that invites a leisurely afternoon. Summer evenings here come alive with live music and outdoor seating that takes full advantage of West Virginia’s warm, inviting climate.
In the heart of Morgantown, just under an hour north of Pittsburgh, the Morgantown Brewing Company offers a distinctly collegiate vibe reflecting its proximity to West Virginia University. The brewery’s spacious taproom and outdoor beer garden are popular gathering spots, serving a diverse lineup of ales, IPAs, and lagers brewed with an emphasis on balance and drinkability. Visitors can pair their drinks with locally sourced pub snacks while watching Mountaineers games on big screens. The best time to visit is in late fall when the university town hums with homecoming festivities and the surrounding hills show off their autumnal splendor.
For those intrigued by distilleries, the Harrison Brothers Coffee Roasters in Lewisburg, about 30 minutes south of White Sulphur Springs, offers a unique fusion of roasted coffee and craft spirits. Their small-batch distilling blends local corn and rye with house-roasted coffee beans, creating distinctive flavors that reflect the region’s agricultural diversity. The tasting room is intimate and warm, featuring shelves stacked with carefully curated spirits. Lewisburg’s historic downtown, with its array of boutique shops and galleries, is a perfect complement to a leisurely afternoon of sampling. Early spring, when the town’s gardens are beginning to bloom, makes for a particularly charming visit.
Further north, near Elkins in Randolph County, the Snowshoe Mountain Resort area houses the Snowshoe Brewing Company. About two and a half hours northeast of Charleston, this brewery caters to outdoor enthusiasts who flock here year-round. Their beers often celebrate the mountain lifestyle, with crisp pilsners and hearty porters that complement a day on the ski slopes or hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Allegheny Mountains from the brewery’s deck, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. The combination of fresh mountain air, rustic ambiance, and thoughtfully crafted brews makes Snowshoe Brewing a standout destination for visitors looking to blend adventure with relaxation.
Wineries also have found a strong foothold, particularly in the Eastern Panhandle near Charles Town. The North Mountain Vineyard & Winery, about 75 minutes west of Washington, D.C., offers a serene setting among rolling hills and meticulously tended grapevines. Wine tastings here feature varietals like Chambourcin and Vidal Blanc, reflecting the region’s adaptability to cool-climate viticulture. The vineyard’s outdoor seating area overlooks scenic ridges, making it a favorite spot for summer evening gatherings. Pairing local cheeses with a glass of their award-winning vino, visitors can soak in the quietude of West Virginia’s gentle landscapes just as the sun dips below the horizon.
Each of these destinations reveals a different facet of West Virginia’s rich craft beverage landscape, anchored in real places that invite exploration and sensory delight. From riverfront breweries and mountain taprooms to historic towns and vineyard slopes, the state offers an inviting journey for anyone eager to taste its unique flavors while soaking in its breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re warming up with a stout in a cozy Appalachian taproom or savoring a glass of wine overlooking rolling vineyards, you’ll find that West Virginia’s craft drinks tell stories as deep and varied as the landscapes they come from.