Blue Mountain Brewery - A Virginia Craft Beer Spot
Blue Mountain Brewery, a place where beer is made in Afton, Virginia, stands as a notable stop on Virginia's Brew Ridge Trail. This spot, known for making its own hops, even brought home a silver medal from the Great American Beer Festival back in 2011. It's a true local gem, offering a taste of what a small, focused beer maker can achieve.
This brewery, you see, is a part of a much larger picture, a collection of places that make their own beverages. It sits right there with other well-known spots, like Devils Backbone Brewing Company and Starr Hill Brewery, all in the same general area. So, if you're looking for a good place to visit, or, you know, just somewhere to enjoy a nice drink, this spot is definitely one to consider. It's a place that takes pride in what it does, making real American brews right there on its own land.
Since opening its doors in 2007, Blue Mountain Brewery has been making its own special kinds of beer. It was, in fact, the very first rural brewery to open in that part of Virginia. Today, the people there are still very much about making a wide selection of drinks that truly inspire. They focus on creating a range of things that people will enjoy, from different types of beer to other tasty beverages, all made with care in a lovely setting.
Table of Contents
- What Makes Blue Mountain Brewery a Special Place?
- Blue Mountain Brewery - Where Does It All Begin?
- What Can You Find at Blue Mountain Brewery?
- How Does Blue Mountain Brewery Make Its Beer?
- What Kind of Beers Does Blue Mountain Brewery Offer?
- Are There Special Events at Blue Mountain Brewery?
- Where Can You Find Blue Mountain Brewery Beers?
- What's New at Blue Mountain Brewery?
What Makes Blue Mountain Brewery a Special Place?
Blue Mountain Brewery is, in a way, quite a unique spot. It's found in Afton, Virginia, a part of the state that has these lovely, rolling Blue Ridge Mountains. This particular brewery holds a special place, as it was the very first of its kind, a rural brewery, to open in that area back in 2007. It's not just a place to get a drink; it's a destination, a spot that really stands out in the heart of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, you know, for those who appreciate good beer and a nice setting.
This spot is known for making its own hops, which is pretty neat. Hops are a key part of making beer, and growing them right there on the farm helps the brewery craft what they call "real American" brews. So, in some respects, it's a farm brewery, which means they grow some of their own ingredients. This focus on growing their own hops is a big part of what makes their beer, and the whole experience, feel very connected to the land around them. It's a bit different from other places, you see.
Beyond the brewing itself, the brewery offers a lot more. It's a place where you can enjoy handcrafted beers, yes, but also good food, some wines, ciders, and even kombucha. So, there's quite a selection for anyone visiting. And, apparently, it's a place with stunning views. Imagine sitting there, enjoying a drink, and looking out at the mountains. It sounds like a really pleasant way to spend some time, doesn't it? It's a whole experience, not just a quick stop.
Blue Mountain Brewery - Where Does It All Begin?
The story of Blue Mountain Brewery starts in 2007. That's when it first opened its doors. It was, actually, the very first brewery in Nelson County, a rural area right there in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This was a big deal at the time, bringing something new and exciting to the region. It set a kind of standard, you know, for other breweries that might come along later. It was a pioneering effort, you could say, in that part of Virginia.
The brewery is situated in Afton, Virginia, a location that offers some truly lovely scenery. It sits, quite literally, in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which are part of the larger Appalachia range. This setting is a big part of the brewery's charm. It provides a beautiful backdrop for enjoying a beer or a meal. So, when you visit, you're not just getting a drink; you're getting a whole experience that includes the natural beauty of the area. It's a pretty special spot, really.
Being a "farm brewery" means something important here. It means they grow their own hops right on the property. This practice connects the brewing process directly to the land. They are, in their own words, "proudly craft real American" beers. This commitment to growing their own ingredients and making beer with care has been a core part of their identity since they started. It's a focus that has remained consistent over the years, which is quite something.
What Can You Find at Blue Mountain Brewery?
When you visit Blue Mountain Brewery, there's a lot to experience. It's not just about the beer, though that's certainly a big part of it. You can find a good selection of handcrafted beers, of course, but also food to go along with your drink. They offer wines, ciders, and even kombucha, so there's really something for almost everyone, you know, no matter what your taste might be. It's a spot where you can settle in and enjoy a variety of treats.
The Blue Mountain Barrel House, which is a part of the brewery, is known as Virginia's first rural brewery. Here, you can get growler fills, which means you can take some fresh beer home with you. They also have drafts available, so you can enjoy a glass right there. And, quite interestingly, they serve pizzas and sandwiches. So, it's a place where you can get a full meal, which is pretty convenient. It’s more than just a tasting room, in a way.
Beyond the food and drink, the Barrel House also offers live music. This adds a whole other layer to the experience. Imagine enjoying a fresh beer and a slice of pizza while listening to some tunes. It sounds like a really pleasant way to spend an afternoon or evening. This combination of good drinks, tasty food, and entertainment makes it a popular spot for people to gather and have a good time. It's definitely a place that tries to offer a complete outing.
How Does Blue Mountain Brewery Make Its Beer?
Blue Mountain Brewery is a craft brewery, which means they focus on making beer with care and attention to detail. They make a variety of beers, including ales and lagers. All of these are brewed right there on site. This means they control the whole process, from start to finish. It's a hands-on approach to making beer, you know, ensuring that each batch meets their standards. This dedication to brewing everything themselves is a key part of their operation.
A big part of their brewing process involves growing their own hops. This is what makes them a "farm brewery." Having their own hops means they can use very fresh ingredients in their beers. It also gives them a bit more control over the flavors they create. This practice of growing their own hops is something they are quite proud of, as it helps them craft what they call "real American" beers. It's a direct connection from the farm to your glass, so to speak.
The brewery also offers tours, which means you can get a closer look at how they make their beer. They have onsite brewing and bottling facilities. This allows visitors to see the equipment and learn about the steps involved in making beer, from the initial brewing to getting it ready for sale. It's a chance to understand the process a bit better, and perhaps appreciate the finished product even more. So, they really do invite you to see how it all comes together.
What Kind of Beers Does Blue Mountain Brewery Offer?
Blue Mountain Brewery has a range of beers to choose from. They have what they call "core" beers, which are available all the time. Then there are "seasonal" beers, which change with the time of year. They also have "barrel house" beers, which are special brews, and "limited/special release" beers that come out only once in a while. So, there's always something new to try, or an old favorite to enjoy, which is pretty nice.
One example of their beer is Kölsch 151. This is a Kölsch style beer. It's brewed right there in Afton, Virginia. It has, apparently, received good feedback, with many ratings and reviews. Another beer mentioned is Classic Lager, which is a European pale lager style beer. This one also has a good number of ratings and reviews. These examples show that they make different styles of beer, catering to various tastes, you know.
They also have some really interesting collaborations. For instance, they brewed a special new ale called Monticello Mountain Ale Local Honey Ale. This beer was made with Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. The idea was to celebrate the history of brewing in Virginia. This particular ale features flavorful elements, likely from the local honey. It's a way to connect their beer to the history of the area, which is quite thoughtful, actually.
Are There Special Events at Blue Mountain Brewery?
Blue Mountain Brewery is not just a place to grab a beer; it's also an event space. This means they host various happenings throughout the year. While the text doesn't go into detail about every type of event, it does suggest that there's always something going on. This makes it a place where people can gather for more than just a drink, perhaps for a party or a special gathering, you know. It's a versatile spot for sure.
One regular event they mention happens on the first Thursday of every month. On this day, visitors can get free or deeply discounted exclusive Blue Mountain merchandise. This offer is available with any draft purchase. It's a nice little bonus for those who come by on that particular day. To find out what the special offer is for the current month, they suggest checking their social media. So, it's a good idea to keep an eye on their updates, you know, if you want to catch a good deal.
Beyond these specific events, the brewery also offers tours. These tours give people a chance to see the brewing and bottling process up close. This is an event in itself, allowing visitors to learn about how their favorite beers are made. They also have live music at the Barrel House, which is a regular feature that adds to the atmosphere. So, there are many ways to engage with the brewery, whether it's through a special deal, a tour, or just enjoying some tunes.
Where Can You Find Blue Mountain Brewery Beers?
If you're looking to try Blue Mountain Brewery beer, there are a few ways to find it. The most direct way, of course, is to visit the brewery itself in Afton, Virginia. That's where they make all their beers, and you can enjoy them fresh on tap. They also have the Barrel House, where you can get growler fills to take beer home. This is probably the best way to experience their full range of offerings, you know, right from the source.
For those who can't make it to the brewery, you can also find their beers in other places. The text mentions that you can find bars, beer stores, and restaurants that sell Blue Mountain Brewery beer. This means their products are distributed to various locations. To find a spot near you, you would likely need to check their website or use a beer-finding app. It's pretty convenient that their beers are available in different places, making them accessible to a wider audience, you know.
The brewery also had an online ordering system for some of their products, though it states that online ordering is now closed. However, cans are available to purchase at the Barrel House while supplies last, starting on May 3rd. This year, there are no purchase rules for "ROA or variants," which suggests a special release that was previously limited. So, while online ordering might not be an option right now, there are still ways to get your hands on their canned beers directly from the Barrel House, which is good to know.
What's New at Blue Mountain Brewery?
Blue Mountain Brewery is always working on something new, it seems. They are still focused on making an inspired range of products, which means they're always thinking about what's next. This could mean new beer styles, new food items, or perhaps even new events. The fact that they're always making something new means there's usually a reason to come back and see what's happening. It keeps things fresh and interesting for visitors, you know.
One recent new offering mentioned is the special new ale brewed in collaboration with Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. This beer, the Monticello Mountain Ale Local Honey Ale, celebrates the history of brewing in Virginia. It features flavorful elements, likely from local honey. This kind of collaboration shows that the brewery is interested in exploring new ideas and connecting with the local history and community. It's a unique way to create a new product, really.
Another new detail relates to their canned beer availability. While online ordering for some items is closed, cans will be available to purchase at the Barrel House starting May 3rd, while supplies last. And, quite notably, this year there are no purchase rules for "ROA or variants." This suggests a change from previous years, making it easier for people to get their hands on these particular beers. It's a good example of how they adapt and change things up for their customers, you know, making it more convenient.
This article has explored Blue Mountain Brewery, a craft brewery located in Afton, Virginia. We've covered its origins as the first rural brewery in Nelson County, its unique position on Virginia's Brew Ridge Trail, and its practice of growing its own hops. The discussion also touched upon the variety of offerings available, including handcrafted beers, food, wines, ciders, and kombucha, along with the presence of live music at the Barrel House. We looked at how the brewery makes its ales and lagers, including special collaborations like the Monticello Mountain Ale. Finally, the article provided information on where to find Blue Mountain Brewery beers and mentioned some of their ongoing and new developments, such as special monthly events and changes in can purchasing rules.
/GettyImages-508394857-56a7976b3df78cf772976b48.jpg)
The Color Psychology of Blue
/GettyImages-769710645-5a5af7dc845b3400373601fe.jpg)
Blue Color Meanings - How to Use Shades of Blue in Design
Another dark blue abstract background texture image
