Breweries, cideries, wineries, oh my! Local brews are easy to find on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Whether you prefer a classic chardonnay, tart cider, full-bodied stout, or timeless whiskey, the options are endless.
*Listed from North to South
Locations marked with * are participants of 50 Days to Explore the Shore
Black Narrows Brewery*
Chincoteague Island, VA
Sit back, relax, and bring on the craft beer! Black Narrows Brewery, a family-owned and operated small business, gives you the ultimate family-friendly experience with board games, card games, a play kitchen corner, and a book nook. Black Narrows houses 9 brews and is constantly releasing specialty craft beverages. You never know what kind of unique flavors they’ll have when you walk into their beautiful taproom! The first craft brewery on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, Black Narrows set the standard high with a loving environment, delightful events, intentional and local ingredients, and endless passion for their community. Black Narrows has committed to giving back 10% of its profits to one global and 12 local causes.
Chatham Vineyards and Winery*
Machipongo, VA
photo courtesy of Chatham Vineyards and Winery
Chatham‘s vineyard and winery journey began when the Wehner family planted vines in 1999 and opened a tasting room in 2005. Chatham Farm, however, has been a working farm for four centuries. The Federal brick home, built in 1818, is now a beautiful inn, perfect for any traveler who loves water views, kayaking, paddleboarding, historic farmland, vineyard vistas, and wine of course! Spend a night at the Vineyard House and take a short walk to the private dock. Explore Church Creek and soak in the salty air. Return home, head to the tasting room, and grab a bottle of Merlot to pair with dinner.
Cape Charles Brewing Company*
Cape Charles, VA
Relax outside, drink a beer, and devour delicious seafood and burgers when you visit Cape Charles Brewing Co. A family-owned and operated business, you can truly feel the love at this must-go-to location! With 15 beers available, experimental seasonal brews, corn hole, live music, an affinity of history, and exciting events, Cape Charles Brewing is the perfect restaurant and brewery to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family alike.
Cape Charles Distillery*
Cape Charles, VA
Unwind in this casual speakeasy with novelty cocktails and chat with knowledgable staff about the distilling process. Drawing inspiration from the entire state of Virginia, Cape Charles Distillery uses locally sourced grains and mountain spring water to create a variety of bourbon, whiskey, vodka, and moonshine. If you love spirits and puns, this is the place (and Facebook page) for you!
Buskey’s Cider on the Bay
Cape Charles, VA
photo courtesy of Ugly Oyster Co.
Sip cider while annihilating friends at giant Jenga when you visit Buskey’s Cider on the Bay. Originally from Scott’s Addition in Richmond, Virginia, Cape Charles acquired their very own Buskey’s in the late spring of 2018. A few steps to the West is Cape Charles beach, and to the right, all of the wonderful small businesses that call Mason Avenue home. Try the experimental jalapeno lime cider, or try a classic RVA cider, there are plenty of options!
A Few Other Great Places to Grab a Drink
The Blarney Stone Pub, Onancock
Oyster Farm Seafood Eatery, Cape Charles
Chatties Lounge, Chincoteague
The Island House, Wachapreague
Captain E’s Hurrican Grill and Tiki Bar, Saxis
Rancho Relaxo, Exmore
Three Knots Taphouse, Onancock
Kelly’s Gingernut Pub, Cape Charles
ChincoTiki Carribean Bar and Grill, Chincoteague
Maurice, Onancock
50 Days to Explore the Shore
From October 1st-November 19th, participate in the Eastern Shore’s very own Scavenger Hunt celebrating Virginia! Visit events, museums, sites, and drink locations, including the ones in this blog. When you visit 5 locations, you will be entered into a raffle drawing for a grand prize. Click here to learn more.
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