8 Breweries and Distilleries to try this Spring

Whether you prefer a hops-y IPA, strong stout beer or Appalachian-made moonshine, the Mountain State has got you covered. This spring, there’s no better way to explore the state than by visiting a local brewery or distillery and sipping on some spirits. Here are seven must-try breweries and distilleries:

Right across the street from the famous Centre Market in downtown Wheeling lies one of the area’s favorite micro-breweries, Wheeling Brewing Company. You’ll find beers with unique names all paying homage to the region, like the Nail City Porter and the Panhandle Pale Ale. On top of their award-winning beer, you’ll also find a delicious menu filled with flatbreads, sliders and tacos. Try their gator tacos, a local favorite!

If you prefer hard cider, try Hawk Knob, West Virginia’s first cidery, over in Lewisburg. Specializing in cider and mead, you’ll enjoy flavors like elderberry, ambrosia or a classic crisp apple cider. Tours and tastings are available Thursdays – Sundays. 

Calling Marion County home, Short Story Brewing is a family-owned craft brewery serving up creative (and delicious) brews. Stop into their beautiful taproom where you will be greeted with live music and a wide selection of beers. Not quite ready to make yourself at home in their taproom? Order a few pints to go! We are raving about their Chasing Daylight IPA and hoping to get a taste of the Lamplight Pilsner.

The Hatfield-McCoy Mountain region is known for a few things: world class ATV/UTV trails, a bitter family feud and moonshine. Aptly named after the feud, Hatfield-McCoy Moonshine is known as the drink of the devil. Passed down generation after generation, the small batch recipe belonged to Devil Anse Hatfield himself. Today, the authentic moonshine is crafted in Gilbert from West Virginia grown corn and distilled in copper kettle stills – the same way Devil Anse made it. Drink it straight over ice or mixed into a cocktail.

One of the state’s oldest distributing micro-breweries, Mountain State Brewing Company, was founded in one of West Virginia’s coolest mountain towns, Thomas. Now with four locations, craft beer enthusiasts find themselves flocking to these taprooms. All of their beers have a story behind the name, like the Miner’s Daughter Stout for example, commemorating the state’s coal mining history. 

With 10 craft brews on tap and a large outdoor deck, Morgantown Brewing Company is the perfect place for an afternoon drink in this college town. While tasting a blonde ale or hazy IPA, enjoy a bite to eat. Their menu includes build your own burgers, wings and chili cheese fries. Take home growlers are available for purchase as well.

A visit to Bavarian Brothers Brewing will have you asking, “Am I in Shepherdstown or Germany?” The newest addition to the Bavarian Inn, remembers their European roots and embraces its West Virginia location. The Brew Pub features beautiful wood & leather furnishings and mimics a German style beer hall. Outside, enjoy s’mores around the fire with after dinner drinks. Along with a rotating beer menu, you’ll also find an extensive wine list. 

Appalachian Distillery in Ripley is a family-owned business that makes, distills and bottles moonshine, bourbon and whiskey right on site. Tour the 10,000 square foot distillery to get a behind-the-scenes look at this hands-on process and try a few free samples for yourself. With 11 different flavors of moonshine, ranging from traditional apple pie to native paw paw, there’s something for every palate. 

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Travelers are encouraged to check the status of individual businesses and to review all Travel Responsibly guidelines before taking a trip.

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