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RVA ON TAP: Farmhouse Pumpkins & Pink Lemonade Honeywines

Caley Sturgill | August 26, 2020

Topics: Ardent craft ales, bars richmond va, beer, beer column, Black Heath Meadery, Bryant’s Cider, Center Of The Universe Brewing, craft beer richmond va, craft beer RVA, Dragon Run Brewing, Final Gravity, Fine Creek Brewing Company, garden grove, happy hour richmond va, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, Intermission Beer Company, Isley Brewing Company, Lickinghole Creek, RVA On Tap, Starr Hill, Stone brewing, strangeways, the answer brewpub, the veil brewing co, Three Notch’d RVA Collab House, triple crossing, Väsen Brewing Company

What’s happening, craft beer lovers of RVA?! Welcome to this week’s RVA On Tap, RVA Magazine’s weekly column for all the Booze News your hearts desire. 

As the River City slowly transitions into a new normal during the pandemic, we’re highlighting the best local brewers. From in-person outdoor events to take-home and delivery beers, let’s support our local businesses together — and stay safe in the process. 

We’ll be bringing you fresh news in the beer world with guidelines on safety. If you’re planning to venture out during the pandemic, your RVA Magazine team wants to stress the importance of wearing your mask. As we all support our favorite brewers, let’s also support the community by taking precautions to ensure everyone stays healthy. 

We’ve got pickup and delivery services from locals like The Answer Brewpub, Ardent Craft Ales, Black Heath Meadery, Bryant’s Cider, Center of the Universe Brewing, Dragon Run Brewing, Final Gravity, Fine Creek Brewing Company, Garden Grove, Hardywood, Intermission Beer Company, Isley Brewing Company, Lickinghole Creek, Starr Hill, Stone Brewing, Strangeways, Three Notch’d RVA, Triple Crossing, Väsen Brewing Company, The Veil Brewing Co. and more. 

Drink up, Virginia! 

The Answer Brewpub 

At The Answer Brewpub, fresh brews are here to cool down these hot summer days. 

Takeout is available, and you’ll want to keep up with The Answer on Facebook to see updates on pre-sales for their latest recipes. This week, we’ve got a brand new beer available, along with a few special releases from the summer. 

Pickup: To-go locations and info updated regularly on Instagram. 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • THE VIBES — Apricots, peaches, and meyer lemon come together for this salty and sweet beer. 
  • JAZZ CUPS — The Answer blended Sabro and Citra hops for this luxurious triple dry-hop treatment. You’ll catch notes of stone fruits, citrus, coconut, and “that je ne sais quois that you only get from neomexicanus varieties” in this one. 
  • HEH HEH HEH HRR RRR HEH HEH HEH HEH HUH RAKAU! HA HRR DIPA — Double IPA. A mouthful just to speak aloud. This is Batch 3 of The Answer’s New Zealand Rakau DIPA, with an excessive triple dry-hop treatment for stone fruit, peach, and apricot flavors. 
  • YOU PUT YOUR WHEAT IN THERE — Huge body from its wheat heavy grain bill, and “jumps out of the can” with intense candied citrus aroma. 
  • HARD TO GET A TICKET — 100% Mosaic DIPA ready in a fresh batch. Described as a “tropical fruit bowl,” the Double IPA is available in 4-packs. 
  • SUMMER SHOWERS — 6.5% ABV Citrus IPA. Ready to carry you through clear skies or summer rains, this pillowy-soft IPA is available in 4-packs. 
  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — 10% ABV Imperial Stout. This glittering brew came as a collaboration for the Black Is Beautiful equality and inclusion campaign, and all proceeds go to the Sister Fund RVA and Campaign Zero. With maple syrup, New Guinea vanilla beans, a touch of cinnamon, Roanoke Coffee, and shimmering edible gold glitter, this recipe was inspired to end injustices against POC and promote equality in our community. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Ardent Craft Ales 

Curbside pickup and delivery are available at Ardent Craft Ales, along with beer shipping across Virginia and D.C. Ardent partially reopened their beer garden, and they’ll be serving food every day as well. Don’t forget to check out their full menu for food! Be sure to check out their new policies during Covid-19. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • ARDENT SAISON — 6.7% ABV. This classic farmhouse ale was brewed with premium malt and Czech Saaz hops, and as one of Ardent’s favorites over the last six years, it’s one you’ll want to try if you haven’t already. The traditional yeast strain balances fruity esters, mild spiciness, and a dry finish in this refreshing beer. 
  • MOORE ST. DIPA — 9% ABV Double IPA. Moore St. is the biggest, boldest addition to Ardent’s series featuring streets from Scott’s Addition. Double dry-hopped with Galaxy and Amarillo, this brew is full of flavors like orange and pineapple in a soft, smooth, minimally-bitter DIPA. 
  • ATLANTICO — 4.4% ABV Mexican-Style Lager. This summertime crusher is brand-new, and was brewed with flaked corn and rice for a dry, refreshing finish. Light-bodied with minimal bitterness, Ardent says this one is the perfect beer on a hot summer afternoon. 
  • RESTING MY GREATNESS — Short Throw Brewing Co. available at Ardent. 11.8% ABV Imperial Stout with coffee, Vermont maple syrup, and whole vanilla beans. 
  • IMPERIAL STOUT WITH VANILLA & CACAO NIBS — 11% ABV Imperial Stout. Bold, full-bodied beer that pours deep black with a tan head. Rich, chocolatey sweetness complements the roasted malt character for a balanced stout with a smooth finish. 
  • BOHEMIAN PILSNER — 4.8% ABV Czech-Style Pilsner. Brewed with a simple recipe of Czech floor malt, Saaz hops, and a Czech lager yeast. Clear golden color with soft mouthfeel, spicy hop notes, and clean finish.

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Black Heath Meadery

*UPDATE: Black Heath Meadery will be temporarily closed. Check back next week for their reopening date!* 

Black Heath Meadery has the patio open for plenty of great outdoor events now, so keep up with them on Facebook for the latest updates — and be sure to wear your mask! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST MEADS 

  • MEAD SLUSHEES — Check out Black Heath’s Facebook page for daily flavor updates! The most recent editions are Blueberry Lemon and Cherry Lime. 
  • JERRY VANILLA — Sour Cherry mead aged in Reservoir bourbon barrels with vanilla beans and cacao nibs. 
  • BLUE ANGEL — Gold Medal Mazer Cup International award winner. Batch 6 utilizes Jonagold apples and VA wildflower honey. 
  • GINGER — Traditional mead fermented with VA wildflower honey and Casselmonte Farms baby yellow ginger. 
  • MEADSAIC — Traditional mead dry hopped with Mosaic. 
  • SOUR CHERRY — Traditional strength mead fermented with VA wildflower honey, Montmorency and Balaton cherries. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Bryant’s Cider 

The new Bryant’s Cider location in Richmond opened this summer, and we’re stoked to keep up with their latest releases. They’re offering shipping and pickup, so if you want to drink from home, they’ve got you covered! Stay tuned for more info on their latest project, River City Seltzer, which is opening up in September. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST CIDERS 

  • LEO — The latest in Bryants Cider’s zodiac series, Leo is coming soon… and this special edition is flavored with habanero and pineapple. Stay tuned for the release date! 
  • BLUEBERRY LAVENDER AND LIME — A brand-new cider recipe featuring blueberry, lavender, and lime flavors with Crescent Simples. 
  • RED EYE — Coffee collaboration with Recluse Roasting Project. This brut cider is made with a single origin bean from a farm named Cual Bicicleta in Honduras. Bryant’s says, “The coffee is amazing, just like the cider it’s cold brewed in.” 
  • GEMINI — Zodiac series Cider. A blood orange and hibiscus cider made with the air signs in mind. 
  • CANCER — Zodiac series Cider. A blueberry cider with the perfect combination between tart and dry. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Center Of The Universe 

Center of the Universe is offering pickup and delivery services, and their Beer Garden is open for business! Be sure to check here before you head out to Ashland, and ensure you’re up-to-date on their new policies to keep everyone safe. 

Pickup: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • OKTOBERFEST — Traditional German Märzen with a clean, light-malty sweetness.  Balanced with a light breadiness and cracker aroma.  
  • THERE GOSE SUMMER TANGERINE GOSE — German-Style Sour. Brewed with heaps of tangerine and a dash of salt, this slightly tart brew will make the “agony of a diminishing summer” a little less dreadful, and much more flavorful. Available in 4-packs and at the brewery. 
  • PINEAPPLE WHIP — 6.5% ABV Oat-based beer. Brewed in collaboration with Origin Beer Lab, this beer was made with whole Madagascar vanilla beans and pineapple juice. The result is a creamy, full bodied-brew that “takes your taste buds on a tropical escape.”
  • MONKEY’S UNCLE LEMONGRASS TRIPEL — 9% ABV Belgian Tripel. Brewed with local lemongrass, with a light, crisp body and straw color. Fresh lemongrass grown by Village Garden added to the boil for a refreshing treat. 
  • CREATIVE JUICES IIIPA — 10% ABV Double IPA. Big, bold, juicy, and gives back! This DIPA is a collaboration with Connor’s Heroes to help celebrate their 10th Annual Heroes Art Ball, which is virtual this year. $5 from every 4-pack will go straight to Connor’s Heroes.
  • BLACKBERRY CRYSTAL COTU — Low calorie, gluten-reduced, fruity and fizzy hard seltzer. Available in 4-packs and at the brewery. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Dragon Run Brewing

Dragon Run Brewing is a charming space located to our east. If you’re looking for a new day trip out of the city, this is your spot — and they’ve got plenty of unique recipes to make it worth your while. With a blend of history behind each brew, Dragon Run brings something fresh to the table with every glass. 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • KEY LIME PIE — The latest in Dragon Run’s “Grandma’s Sour Pie” series. This one brings out the down-home dessert flavors with real key lime, plus graham cracker notes and a creamy finish. 
  • MATTAPO-NELPA — Hazy New England Style IPA, back on tap this week. 
  • BORN HERE RASPBERRY LEMONADE SHANDY — 4.4% ABV Raspberry Lemonade Shandy. This one takes the Born Here Pilsner and mixes it with fresh raspberry lemonade for a summertime treat. 
  • BRAXTON’S BITTER — 5.2% ABV English IPA. Named after the local founding father, Carter Braxton, who signed the Declaration of Independence among other things, this English Bitter has a slightly sweet malty taste and then an English Hop bite that is reminiscent of that old English Pub taste. 
  • MARY OF ORANGE — 4.5% ABV Cream Ale. You know William of Orange, but do you know his wife, Mary Of Orange? This beer is brewed for Mary of William and Mary (Or the Queen in King and Queen County). This is a light cream ale that has a subtle taste of both orange and vanilla to remind you of that favorite ice cream treat, perfect for a warm summer day. 
  • TOM’S “COFFEY” STOUT — 6.6% ABV Coffee Stout. This coffee stout is a coffee lover’s dream. Big, bold coffee taste, combined with the malty fullness, and finished with a creamy top provided by the nitro tap. Just like drinking a cold-brew coffee. Named after the brewers’ maternal grandfather, Tom Coffey, who was a legend in his own time, made this beer to be worthy of his namesake. 
  • BLACK CHERRY HARD SELTZER — 4% ABV Hard Seltzer. A hard seltzer for those that want a gluten free option. Touched off with with fresh fruit juices for a refreshing taste. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Final Gravity Brewing Co. 

Final Gravity Brewing Co. is open for pickup and delivery. To-go pours are available for every brew you could dream of: all you need to do is grab a Crowler! The brewery will be hosting food trucks and some new events as well, so be sure to stay safe and wear your mask. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • WANDERING STAR HAZY DOUBLE IPA — Hazy Double IPA. Brewed with Citra and then dry-hopped with Mosaic, you’ll catch flavors of grapefruit, citrus, stone fruit, and pine in this bright brew. 
  • DOPPLER EFFECT IPA — 7% ABV Flagship IPA. Back on tap, brewed with all Mosaic hops! Juicy New England-style IPA, crisp and clear like West Coast style. 
  • ITALIAN STYLE DRY-HOPPED PILSNER — Also back on tap this week (so get it while you can)! Dry-hopped with Mandarina Bavaria and Hallertau Blanc hops. 
  • JUICE BOX HAZY DOUBLE IPA — 8% ABV Double IPA. This hazy beauty was brewed with Strata, Belma, and Citra hops. 
  • TANGERINE GOSE — Ancient Mariner and Habanero Mango. 
  • VAPOUR TRAIL HAZY DOUBLE IPA — 8% ABV Hazy Double IPA brewed with Citra and Falconer’s Flight hops. 
  • STEPPING STONE BLONDE ALE — 5% ABV Blonde Ale. 
  • CASSIOPEIA HAZY DOUBLE IPA — This fan favorite is back in the online store, and it’s no wonder it’s been so well-received in its time. Dry-hopped with Cashmere and Mosaic hops, Cassiopeia is full of tropical fruit notes, pineapple forward with a touch of dankness and a smooth finish. 
  • STARDUST HAZY IPA — 6% ABV. Hopped with BRU-1 and Mosaic, Stardust IPA has bright, floral characteristics and a pineapple punch. 
  • RITES OF SPRING GINGER HONEY LAGER — 5.5% ABV. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Fine Creek Brewing Company 

Beer delivery and pickup is available at Fine Creek Brewing Company! Check out their website for a full list of beers available, and below for new brews on tap. With brand-new recipes and old favorites back in stock, there’s something for everyone at the Powhatan farmhouse. 

The Wild & Weird Festival is back!! This festival is one of my favorites each year, because it brings together all the best styles of beer that aren’t your regular IPA. All of September will be showcasing some of Fine Creek’s favorite beers brewed at the farm, and some brewed with their friends as well. All seating will be outdoor, and orders and pickups will take place at the bar if you’re heading out to spend the day with these awesome brewers. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • AMERICAN WHEAT —  4.4% ABV Wheat Ale. Medium-bodied with a slightly creamy mouthfeel, and a dry and refreshing finish. This one comes from the Weissbiers of Germany, but as Fine Creek says, the American versions allow clean fermenting yeast for a neutral background and more significant hop presence. 
  • RKATSITELI SOUR — 6.6% ABV Golden Sour collab with Blenheim Vineyards. Rkatsiteli is a grape often used to produce white wine, and is one of the oldest cultivated grape varieties. The beer has a funky, floral aroma with notes of gooseberry, peach skin, and subdued oak. The flavor leads with a predominant combination of white grape and tart lemon, which gives way to layers of spice and mixed berry. Despite an initial juicy and round mouthfeel the beer finishes with a refreshing, drying tartness. 
  • GOLDEN SOUR — Bottled Sour Ale. The barrels layered this beer with notes of mixed berries, red wine, oaky tannins, and vanilla. Golden sour culture brought a bright acidity, along with flavors of lemon and fresh pineapple. This beer combines deeper wine barrel tones with a refreshing tart palate and a dry and tannic finish.
  • GERMAN PILSNER — 4.8% ABV Pilsner. Light Bodied, malt-forward. Floral, grassy, & herbal hop notes. 
  • PROTOSCIENCE IPA — 7.3% ABV IPA. Orange, papaya, and mild grapefruit flavors with a rich, fruity character. 
  • RAYGUN GOTHIC IPA — 7.5% ABV IPA. Pineapple and tropical fruit flavors with a full mouthfeel. 
  • CITRUS HONEY SAISON — Back on tap! The last keg of this beloved brew is coming back this Friday, and it’s only available for a limited time. It goes fast, according to Fine Creek, and it’ll also be available on the next canning run. 
  • VITALISM IPA — Hazy IPA. This new release was dry-hopped with Kohatu and Mosaic hops, combining for a sweet aroma of bright tropical fruit, with notes of freshly cut papaya and pineapple. Earlier additions of Idaho 7 and German Amarillo hops contribute more to the flavor, which features fruity tones alongside black tea, citrus zest, and a mild floral note. Vitalism has a medium body and a round mouthfeel that is paired with enough bitterness to avoid feeling too rich. 
  • AMERICAN STOUT — 7% ABV. The latest batch comes from English Pale malts from Murphy & Rude Malting Co. in Charlottesville, and with a nutty and sweet backbone, this one was layered in Toasted Oats and Crystal Wheat to build up a sweeter tone of whole grain cereal and baked goods. Toasty notes of black coffee and baker’s chocolate, medium body balanced by a subtle hop flavor. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Garden Grove Brewing & Urban Winery 

Garden Grove is offering curbside pickup, carry-out orders, and same-day delivery! Masks are required to visit their taproom, and they’ve been offering some great new brews to get us through the insanity that is the summer of 2020. We don’t know where we’d be without local beer through all of this! Check below for fresh releases and more updates. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • REFILL SPARKLING PINK LEMONADE HONEYWINE — Final run of 2020! This unique recipe is available on draft and in 4-packs right now, so be sure to grab one while you can before it’s gone until spring. 
  • MUNICH KOLSCH — 4.8% ABV Kolsch. The latest recipe is a traditional, crisp golden brew with slight floral aromas (and it’s a sneak peek at their upcoming Oktoberfest lineup)! 
  • TYPHOON PASSION FRUIT AND MANGO HONEY WINE — 7% ABV Honey Wine. Sweet tropical aromas of passion fruit and mango swing together. “Bursting with big, bold flavors wave after wave.” 
  • MADELINE SAISON — 6.5% ABV Saison. Notes of classic banana and spice. Soft bodied, with flavors of tropical fruit, white pepper and rye.
  • ARASSAS KOLSCH — 4.8% ABV German-Style Kolsch. 
  • DEATH — 10% ABV Belgian. Brings out as much ripe and dark fruit flavors reminiscent of rich red wines as possible, by fermenting with red wine grapes from each year’s harvest. Death is made once a year in tandem with the Virginia wine grape harvest schedule. 
  • CARTOON VILLAIN IPA — 7% ABV IPA. Tropical and juicy. 
  • MOZU — 8% Peach Yuzu Honey Wine. Flavors and color from White and Blood Peaches, balanced by bright and shiny Yuzu. “Confuse your palate” with this brew that’s both sweet and dry. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Hardywood Park Craft Brewery 

Hardywood Richmond and West Creek locations are open! And just look at that awesome setup above at West Creek. The outdoor spaces have been rearranged to allow for proper social distancing, and all us Hardywood fans can now visit them again safely. If you’d rather drink from home, online ordering is still available with all of Hardywood’s best. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • FARMHOUSE PUMPKIN — This one comes straight from Virginia-grown sugar pumpkins from Grandma’s Pumpkins in Midlothian. With whole nutmeg, clove, allspice, and a classic saison yeast, this farmhouse ale has a soft mouthfeel with balanced, rustic fall flavors. 
  • GRAPEFRUIT SINGEL — Hardywood’s classic flagship, Singel, gets a zesty makeover to help beat the summertime heat with the addition of refreshing grapefruit. 
  • TRIUMVIRATE — This New England-Style IPA has notes of fresh mandarin, orange, lemon peel, and a hint of pineapple. 
  • TRIADIC — New England-Style IPA with “a hop combination like no other.” Motueka, Nelson Sauvin and Bramling Cross hops blend together a triad of flavors – citrus, tropical fruit and black currant. Chewy and juicy with a balanced bitterness. 
  • RICHMOND LAGER LIME — Richmond Lager Lime still has the same local ingredients we love, including Virginia-grown malt and hops. Real lime juice takes this beer to the next level. 
  • DREAMLIKE — Malted Wheat and Flaked Oats round out this dreamy New England Style IPA using Galaxy, Azzaca, Falconers Flight and Cascade hops in both Whirlpool and Dry Hopping on this iteration. 
  • CUVEE PEACH — Peach Tripel matured in freshly-dumped white wine barrels to allow for a true depth of flavor to develop. The result is a beautifully complex beer with stone fruit esters and juicy peach undertones, complemented by a pleasantly dry finish. 
  • STRAIGHT TALK VOL. I & VOL. II — The Straight Talk Series are a “single barrel & single beer experience.” Vol. I is an Imperial Milk Stout, perfectly balanced with notes of silky chocolate and toffee, plus vanilla and smooth dark caramel from its bourbon barrel. Vol. II is a Saison aged in Red Wine Barrels for 11 months. 
  • RICHMOND DARK LAGER — The same refreshing and crisp experience of its original recipe, with an ever-so-slight sweet dark malt characteristic. Although visually darker then its golden bubbly brother, Richmond Dark Lager does not have the roasty characteristics you might usually find in a beer this color. 
  • SUNCRUSH — Summer’s favorite hard seltzer. Check Hardywood’s ordering site for available flavors! 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Intermission Beer Company 

Intermission is open! These brewers have taken it to the next level this summer with beer slushies (and yes, it’s as good as it sounds). A recent favorite is their Abbey Ale with Strawberries. Masks are required to enter. Taproom and patio seating are available, and no pets during this time. It’s first-come, first-serve, and it’ll be closed for seating once they reach capacity. Always remember to wear your mask and keep folks safe! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • BEER SLUSHIES! — Check Facebook every Friday to see the weekend’s flavor. 
  • ABBEY ALE — The favorite is back! 5.5% ABV Belgian Blonde. A gluten-reduced classic Belgian Singel with a subtle sweetness and light fruity notes. 
  • BRANNIGAN’S LAW — 6.4% ABV Honey Beer. Braggot (honey beer) brewed in the style of an Irish Red Ale. Deep red hue, full bodied, and as smooth as a velour fog. Gluten Reduced. 
  • CONJURED DARKNESS — 6.4% ABV Milk Stout. Dark roasted malts give a chocolatey foundation sweetened with milk sugar and lightly hopped. Dark, decadent, and creamy. Gluten Reduced. 
  • HONEY HIBISCUS SAISON — 5.9% ABV Saison Farmhouse Ale. Light bodied with a slightly tart, dry finish. Notes of fresh honey along with a pink hue. 
  • TROPICAL THUNDER IPA — 7% ABV American IPA. Malt base with tropical fruit hop notes, doubled down with passion fruit, mango, and pineapple. 
  • GHOST LIGHT LAGER — 5% ABV. Light and crisp American Lager. Gluten Reduced.

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Isley Brewing Company 

To-go brews are available at Isley Brewing Company! Indoor and outdoor seating is available, and dogs are welcome if they’re leashed. Be sure to ask about the latest Ice-sley slushie flavors, because these brewers have something fresh every week. No reservations required, and be sure to wear your mask! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • ICE-SLEY SLUSHIES — Check in every week for fresh new slushie flavors! Chipotle Blackberry Sour and Peach Sour are recent favorites. 
  • JAMWICH — 5.4% Sour Ale. Light bodied, golden colored blonde, with heaps of fresh blackberry puree, hopped to perfection with only the finest German noble varieties.
  • I’LL BEE BOCK — 8% ABV. Single / Traditional Bock. Hopped exclusively with Czech Saaz hops, and finished with a clean German lager yeast, the beer pours a light copper, with a thick, creamy head. 
  • SUNBURNT COUNTRY IPA — 8.5% IPA. A Hazy DIPA, brewed exclusively with varietals grown only in the Southern Hemisphere. The beer pours a cloudy yellow, with a soft, pillowy foam.
  • TEA-RIFFIC — 6% ABV Amber Ale. Growing up, summer in the South meant… Sweet Tea! They’ve brewed a malty Amber Ale, infused it with heaps of Black Tea, and sweetened it right up with approximately 100 percent of pure cane sugar. 
  • SET SAIL — 6% ABV Hopped Lemon Pale Ale. Brewed with late additions of Mandarina Bavaria and Citra hop varietals, and lemon and orange zest, the wheat and barley blended base is a perfect vessel to let the fresh, citrus flavors really shine. 
  • OFF THE BOULEVARD — 5% Irish Red Ale. Balanced, easy-drinking traditional Irish Red Ale.
  • RASPBERRY RAZZLE — 5.4% ABV Sour Gose. Return of the Raspberry-Infused Gose, this one is light, refreshing, and adds in a low hop bitterness with sour, sweet, tart, and salty flavors. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery 

Multi-state shipping and drive through pickup available! The taproom is also open, and with plenty of awesome outdoor seating, the farm at Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery is one you don’t want to miss. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — 10% ABV Imperial Dessert Stout. This one is for the true stout lovers out there. Lickinghole Creek took the Black Is Beautiful recipe from Weathered Souls Brewing, and tried to keep it as true to the original as possible. “We wanted this beer to showcase the masterfully roasted and caramel malt graciously donated from Murphy and Rude Malting out of Charlottesville, VA. We get huge notes of deeply roasted coffee, rich cacao, creamy vanilla, and caramel toffee.” All proceeds will go to organizations in pursuit of ending racial and social injustice everywhere. 
  • JUICY #22 — 7.5% ABV. Juicy 22 is layered with orange zest, orange juice, and with a soft kiss of vanilla. Juicy 22 showcases the wonderful hop LOTUS. (This is a personal favorite of mine, so I definitely encourage you to try it!) 
  • ABSOLUTE COUP OF ENLIGHTENED DESPOT — 9.3% ABV Bourbon Spiral Aged Russian Imperial Stout. A modern twist on an old favorite. The Enlightened Despot is overtaken by upstart spirals of bourbon-soaked toasted oak. The two-time gold medal winning Virginia Black Bear ages on Bourbon oak spirals for the Absolute Coup of the Enlightened Despot. 
  • BLUEBERRY FRENCH TOAST IMPERIAL BROWN ALE — 8% ABV Brown Ale. This American Brown Ale was conditioned on fresh vanilla, cinnamon, and blueberries with a noticeable maple syrup flavor. 
  • NUCLEAR NUGGET IMPERIAL HONEY IPA — 10.5% ABV. While it’s not brand-new, it’s worth noting as a fan favorite. This hop bomb is a lot of things. One thing it is not, is subtle. Nuclear Nugget explodes the nose with notes of citrus, flowers, and Centennial hops, then the nuclear fallout is accompanied by local clover honey, to bring everybody back to safety. 
  • GOOCHLAND QUADRUPEL ALE — 11.2% ABV. Tasting notes of raisin, plum, prune, and currants. Easily drinkable, complex, and refreshing. 
  • WATERMELON GOSE — 5% ABV. Traditional German-style wheat ale. Expect a light and crisp beer with notes of sour, salt, and juicy watermelon on your taste buds.

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Starr Hill Richmond Beer Hall & Rooftop 

Starr Hill RVA is also keeping things safe, with to-go beer sales taking place during abbreviated business hours. All of their year-round beers will be available, in addition to some special favorites from the brewery. 

Pickup: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • AIR DRUMMER HAZY IPA — The latest brew from Starr Hill, available now after its debut in April! This Hazy IPA is out on tap and in 4-pack cans for pickup. 
  • HEY BUDDY — The latest pilot batch from right here in Richmond. This beer is dedicated to Starr Hill’s buddy, Dio, who’s been a member of the crew for over 10 years. This golden brew lagered in our tanks for over five months, for a crisp and refreshing finish. 
  • FESTIE — Oktoberfest Lager. This recipe is rich, malty, and perfectly refreshing for the season. 
  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — Starr Hill’s recipe of the Weathered Souls Brewing initiative. This hopped-up stout was brewed with Chinook, Citra, Centennial and Falconer’s Flight. 100 percent of the proceeds go to the Equal Justice Initiative! 
  • DOUBLE PLATINUM IMPERIAL IPA — 8.6% ABV Imperial IPA. Brand-new Imperial IPA from Starr Hill, limited edition! 
  • KING KUNU PINEAPPLE IPA — Pineapple IPA. 4-packs available from the brewery. 
  • SAY IT AIN’T SOUR — 12-pack that brings together all the best Starr Hill Gose brews. Pixie Pineapple Gose, Carly Cucumber Gose, Carole Cran-Raspberry Gose and Lola Guava Gose. 
  • SUBLIME CITRUS WIT — Witbier. New recipe with a fresh lime zest. Citrus, wheat, and spice meld together to create the perfect summer beverage. 
  • CARLY CUCUMBER GOSE — 6-pack of the new Gose recipe. 
  • CAROLE CRAN-RASPBERRY GOSE — A cranberry-raspberry infusion in 6-packs available at Starr Hill. 
  • PIXIE PINEAPPLE GOSE — Another fresh recipe available in 6-packs. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Stone Brewing Richmond 

Stone Brewing Richmond is open for pick-up! This awesome East End brewery has had some delicious releases lately, and they’ve got brews ready at the door if you plan to take them home. The patio is open as well, so mask up and head out for some great new releases. Stone also has a great new “Odd Beers for Odd Years” series going on, so stay tuned for updates as special releases come out! 

Pickup: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • WIZARDS & GARGOYLES SLAY HAZY COFFEE IPA — Stone joined up with Modern Times Beer to create this fresh IPA. It uses two new hops that are still in development, along with Centennial, Cashmere, Citra, and Azacca. This hazy coffee IPA is now available nationwide, and with light chocolate notes, coffee, citrus pith, tangerine, tart peach, caramel, mild oak, hay, and cognac tastes, it’s one that’s unlike any you’ve had before. 
  • OLD GUARDIAN — Triple IPA. This one-time-only release, part of Stone’s “Odd Beers for Odd Years” series, takes a downright excessive brew into uncharted, extra-hoppy territory. They did this by dry-hopping it with Azacca hops, essentially turning an American barley wine into a triple IPA. Like its Classic counterpart, this delicious oddity has evolved into an even more glorious beer with age, and now the Stone Old Guardian Barley Wine (Extra Hoppy) is on tap in Richmond. 
  • STONE LIBERTY STATION MARBLE RYE BOCK — 7.3% ABV. Maibock style lager brewed with rye and bitter chocolate. 
  • STONE LET ME HEAR YOU SCREAM — 8% ABV. Hazy IPA brewed with vanilla and lactose. 
  • SOARING DRAGON IMPERIAL IPA — 8% ABV. Imperial IPA brewed with white tea. 
  • STONE BUENAVEZA SALT & LIME LAGER — 4.7% ABV Lager. This one has been a favorite this summer, so grab one while you can! 
  • ENTER NIGHT PILSNER — 5.7% ABV Pilsner. German-style pilsner with low bitterness and bright tastes. 
  • STONE TIKI ESCAPE — 7.7% ABV IPA. Tropical, fruit-forward IPA brewed with Sabro and Mosaic hops. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Strangeways Brewing 

All three Strangeways Brewing tasting rooms are open for delivery, curbside pick-up, and to-go orders! They’re also open for draft brews, and wear your mask when visiting in-person. Be sure to check their website for updates. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • I CARY’D A WATERMELON BERLINER WEISSE — This summer favorite is back on tap at Strangeways! This new brew adds locally-grown sweet watermelon to the brewery’s original Berliner Weisse recipe. It originally came out for the annual Carytown Watermelon Festival, but was such a fan favorite that the brewers decided to bring it to the taproom. Very limited availability, so get it while it lasts! 
  • SINEWY — 8% ABV Strong Saison. A fan favorite for years, Sinewy is basically an imperial farmhouse ale, made with Vienna, White Wheat, and Belgian Aromatic Malts then generously hopped Sorachi Ace. Fermented very dry producing a crushable farmhouse ale with notes of honey, green peppercorn, earth, and freshly cut hay. 
  • I KNOW WIT YOU DID LAST SUMMER — 5.4% ABV Sour Witbier. Combines the spice of a traditional Belgian wit, with the mellow tart of German sour wheat ale. A subtle citrus characteristic sticks around from nose to aftertaste, briefly replacing mid-taste with a light peppery sweet tart. 
  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — Imperial Stout. Highlights intense roast character with moderate sweetness and subtle booze on the nose. 100 percent of proceeds benefit Girls for a Change. 
  • SHIMMER & SHAKE — Spiked Sparkling Seltzer. Lemon-lime flavors, with a light, crisp, and effervescent taste for summertime. 
  • AFM WILD ALE — Farmhouse Saison. 2-row, Vienna, and Wheat Malts. Heavily hopped with Columbus in the brewhouse, then aged 22 months in French Oak barrels. Strong, but drinkable, with a balance between hops and funk. 
  • FULL STACK LUMBERJACK — Stout. Dark, rich and luscious. Conditioned with pure Wisconsin Little Man maple syrup and thick-cut Smithfield maple flavored bacon. 
  • GNAR SHREDDER — Double IPA. Soft and pillowy with light sweetness. Intensely fruity from big additions of Vic Secret and Cashmere hops giving notes of passionfruit, peach, pear, and rock candy. Double dry-hopped. 
  • LEGALIZE IT — Small Axe West Coast-Style IPA in honor of the recent decriminalization of marijuana in Virginia. 
  • LUCKY CHARMS BERLINER WEISSE — Cloudy, sour wheat beer. Dry, fruity funk with a sharp tartness. 
  • WAKE ME UP BEFORE YOU GOSE — Lighthearted Germanic Sour. Lemony tartness alongside Sicilian sea salt, coriander, and ginger to “put the boom-boom into your heart.” 
  • WHAT THE ASTRONAUTS DRINK — Sour Berliner Weisse. Infused with orange flavored drink mix for a familiar tangy flavor. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Three Notch’d RVA Collab House

Three Notch’d RVA Collab House is open for business, and they just welcomed a new Head Brewer in August: Bobby Faithful. With a wealth of professional brewing experience (including being the director of the brewing program at University of Richmond), Bobby’s got plenty of new recipes to cook up for the River City. Between pickup and delivery services, in addition to a great patio, Three Notch’d RVA is bringing lots of fresh tastes into this summer. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • GALAXY CLEAR JUICY IPA — 7.6% ABV. Clear juicy IPA with tropical fruit flavor from Australian Galaxy hops, with all the yeast haze in suspension. 
  • 40 MILE IPA — 6.1% ABV. Flagship IPA combines citrus, peach, and pineapple flavors with mild bitterness and crisp malt body for a refreshing, delicious beer. 
  • AMERICAN BARREL-AGED RED SOUR — 6.3% ABV. American Red Sour aged in wine barrels with house lactobacillus culture. 
  • BIG SLICE JUICY IPA — 7.8% ABV IPA. Brewed in the New England style, but with a twist. The banana profile from the hefeweizen yeast pairs with big tropical fruit flavors of Moutere and Mosaic hops. 
  • BROTHER BARNABAS BELGIAN TRIPEL — 10.4% ABV. This Belgian-style Tripel is crisp, refreshing, and highly carbonated with fruity Belgian esters for a great pear skin, apple, and citrus profile. 
  • GHOST AMERICAN PALE ALE — 5.1% ABV. Classic American Pale Ale is brewed with an ambush of dry hops, giving this crisp, refreshing beer all the hop flavor without being overly bitter. 
  • HYDRAULION IRISH RED ALE — 5.3% ABV. This Irish-Style Red is perfectly balanced with a great caramel sweetness and crisp, citrusy hop profile. 
  • JACK’S JAVA ESPRESSO STOUT — 5.5% ABV. Brewed with a special three-roast coffee blend by Dave Fafara, roastmaster at Charlottesville’s Shenandoah Joe Coffee Roasters. 
  • HANSEL & KETTLE IMPERIAL OKTOBERFEST — 8% ABV Oktoberfest. This imperial version of the classic Marzen style has Munich and Vienna malts, which give the beer a toast-like malt sweetness, balanced by the classic spice profile of German Noble Hops. 
  • GOLD STAR ALL-AMERICAN IPA — The latest beer from the Three Notch’d series to honor the fallen. This brew is in memory of SSG Kenneth Wade Bennet of the U.S. Army, and it’s brewed with American-grown Bravo and Tomahawk hops. 
  • BLACK CHERRY HARD SELTZER — Hard Seltzer. Low sugar, low carb, and only 100 calories for the days you’re craving something lighter. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Triple Crossing Beer

Triple Crossing Beer has to-go and delivery options available, and can shipping is another option as well. Visit their patio for some outdoor time in the East End, and wear your mask! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • BABY FALCON — Tropical papaya, bright pineapple, and white grape melon come together for this classic Falcon orange oil citrus marmalade flavor. Entirely drinkable, and brewed Downtown at the source of the original first ever batch of their most famous hoppy beer. 
  • PARANOID — 5% ABV. Pale ale with a Citra hop varietal and malted white wheat. Impressions of mango, sweet apricot, and floral grapefruit orange. 
  • SUMMER JETLAG — 12% ABV. Brewed in February 2019. English-style Barleywine that rested in bourbon barrels for 16 months, then conditioned on a measured blend of vanilla beans and in-house toasted coconut. 
  • LITTLE HILLTOP — 3.8% ABV Kellerbier. This Franconian-inspired recipe has an “effortlessly session-able ABV,” comprised of a simple grain bill with a hop kettle treatment. 
  • BUTTERCUP GRISETTE — 4.5% ABV. Open-fermented Grisette comprised of pilsner malt, spelt, red wheat and flaked barley. 
  • FALCON SMASH IPA — Flagship IPA. Dank hop character from Falconer’s Flight dry-hop process. 
  • FOEDER I  — 5% ABV Golden Ale. Candied pineapple, fresh pomelo, light notes of dill and sweet honey with a restrained acidity and dry finish.

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Väsen Brewing Company

Väsen is open for pickup and delivery! Outdoor seating is available, so please wear your mask and keep folks safe. They’ve recently released a great array of fresh new brews, and we can’t wait to grab a glass of every one! Kegs are also available to take home. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • TRIPLE PEACH SAISON — 6.2% ABV Saison. This crisp, fruity brew was made with white, yellow, and blood peach to get a deep, natural character which perfectly complements the classic saison flavors of spice and clove. 
  • NORSE DIPA — Returning alongside Triple Peach Saison in cans, this hazy double dry-hopped IPA was made with Citra, Mosaic, and Amarillo hops. 
  • COHESION — This collab with Capsoul and Chilalay brought us a brand-new Hazy Double IPA, and it’s focused on community health, cultural awareness, and social change. African Queen, Azacca, and Southern Passion hops lend aromas of pear and white grape, along with flavors of tangerine and vanilla. Support your community simply by having a beer! 
  • EVERYTHING FLOATS ON GUAVA AND PASSION FRUIT — Bold, dry-hopped sour… and all of it floats on a fruity foundation of real guava and passion fruit. Along with the tropical flavors dominating this tart brew, you’ll also find subtle citrus aromas and pleasant floral character from a light addition of citra hops. 
  • FEASTA — 8% ABV Hazy DIPA. Brewed with Nelson Sauvin, Citra, and Vic Secret Hops. 
  • NEOMEXICANUS — 8% ABV Hazy DIPA. Brewed with Sabro, El Dorado, and Azacca hops.
  • APRICOT SOUR — 7% ABV Sour Ale. Brewed with apricot for a summery, fruity flavor. 
  • MIERKA — 6% ABV Farmhouse Brett Saison. Dry-hopped with Citra and Amarillo hops. 
  • FREYJA — 6% ABV Hazy IPA. Brewed with Mosaic, Rakau, and the 2019 Pink Boots Hop Blend. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

The Veil Brewing Co. 

The Veil Brewing Co. is hosting outdoor to-go sales from both locations. They’ve also got shipping available to select states, and they’re currently open for curbside pickup only. Patio lovers, stay tuned for openings in the future! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • DIRT NAP — 8.8% ABV. DIPA featuring Galaxy, Citra, Mosaic, and Nelson Sauvin! This batch is popping with juicy papaya and a Southern Hemisphere tropical muskiness that is perfectly balanced by the American Citra and Mosaic. 
  • STRANGE STRANGE & ETERNAL ETERNAL — 6% ABV. Strange Strange & Eternal Eternal is a double dry-hopped IPA with Citra, Mosaic, Motueka, and Simcoe. Tastes like gushers fruit snacks. A unique, cool, soft crusher. 
  • CARRY ME — 8% ABV. Carry Me is a brand new Double India Pale Ale that’s heavy on the fluffy oats and hopped with a blend of Citra, Nelson, Idaho 7, BRU-1, Enigma, and Mosaic. Layered notes of strawberry and skittles candy. 
  • NEVER GONNAGETIT3 — 5.3% ABV Gose. Triple raspberry, triple blackberry, and triple boysenberry purées. This is a great batch with flavors of pulpy berry popsicles and smoothie bowls. 
  • NEVER NEVER CALM CALM — 5.1% ABV Gose with the awesome fruit combo of double passion fruit and double pineapple. Tasty vibes of canned fruit cups, peach skin, and obviously tons of passion fruit and pineapple. 
  • HOLLOW PLACE 500ML BOTTLE — 10.5% ABV. Hollow Place: Vanilla Walnut is a new Imperial Stout conditioned on piles of crushed walnuts and freshly split Madagascar vanilla beans. Awesome oily flavors of rich vanilla cake, walnut fudge, and candy bars. 
  • VEIN — 4.5% ABV. Pilsner step-mashed with floor-malted barley and hopped with Saaz and Tettnang. Crispy, hoppy, and thirst-quenching.
  • LOVELY — 5.2% ABV. Lovely is a blend of a Farmhouse-inspired Pale Ale and a 100% wheat Farmhouse-inspired ale. Both beers were barrel fermented, inoculated with our house culture, and aged in French oak red wine barrels for 12 months.

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

That’s it for this week’s RVA On Tap! As your weekly columnist, I’m here to take all your beer releases, event info, ideas and questions. If you’re a brewer, send me your release info at [email protected], and if you’re a beer enthusiast, drop me a line anytime to talk booze. Catch y’all next week! 

RVA ON TAP: Beer Slushies & Pineapple Brews

Caley Sturgill | August 19, 2020

Topics: Ardent craft ales, bars richmond va, beer, beer column, Black Heath Meadery, Bryant’s Cider, Center Of The Universe Brewing, craft beer richmond va, craft beer RVA, Dragon Run Brewing, Final Gravity, Fine Creek Brewing Company, garden grove, happy hour richmond va, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, Intermission Beer Company, Isley Brewing Company, Lickinghole Creek, RVA On Tap, Starr Hill, Stone brewing, strangeways, the answer brewpub, the veil brewing co, Three Notch’d RVA Collab House, triple crossing, Vasen Brewing Company

What’s happening, craft beer lovers of RVA?! Welcome to this week’s RVA On Tap, RVA Magazine’s weekly column for all the Booze News your hearts desire. 

As the River City slowly transitions into a new normal during the pandemic, we’re highlighting the best local brewers. From in-person outdoor events to take-home and delivery beers, let’s support our local businesses together — and stay safe in the process. 

We’ll be bringing you fresh news in the beer world with guidelines on safety. If you’re planning to venture out during the pandemic, your RVA Magazine team wants to stress the importance of wearing your mask. As we all support our favorite brewers, let’s also support the community by taking precautions to ensure everyone stays healthy. 

We’ve got pickup and delivery services from locals like The Answer Brewpub, Ardent Craft Ales, Black Heath Meadery, Bryant’s Cider, Center of the Universe Brewing, Dragon Run Brewing, Final Gravity, Fine Creek Brewing Company, Garden Grove, Hardywood, Intermission Beer Company, Isley Brewing Company, Lickinghole Creek, Starr Hill, Stone Brewing, Strangeways, Three Notch’d RVA, Triple Crossing, Väsen Brewing Company, The Veil Brewing Co. and more. 

Drink up, Virginia! 

The Answer Brewpub 

At The Answer Brewpub, fresh brews are here to cool down these hot summer days. 

Takeout is available, and you’ll want to keep up with The Answer on Facebook to see updates on pre-sales for their latest recipes. This week, we’ve got a brand-new beer available, along with a few special releases from the summer. 

Pickup: To-go locations and info updated regularly on Instagram. 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • CAFE CON LECHE COCONUT BANANA — Now available on the Frozan machine at The Answer. 
  • HEH HEH HEH HRR RRR HEH HEH HEH HEH HUH RAKAU! HA HRR DIPA — Double IPA. A mouthful just to speak aloud. This is Batch 3 of The Answer’s New Zealand Rakau DIPA, with an excessive triple dry-hop treatment for stone fruit, peach, and apricot flavors. 
  • YOU PUT YOUR WHEAT IN THERE — Huge body from its wheat heavy grain bill, and “jumps out of the can” with intense candied citrus aroma. 
  • HARD TO GET A TICKET — 100% Mosaic DIPA ready in a fresh batch. Described as a “tropical fruit bowl,” the Double IPA is available in 4-packs. 
  • SUMMER SHOWERS — 6.5% ABV Citrus IPA. Ready to carry you through clear skies or summer rains, this pillowy-soft IPA is available in 4-packs. 
  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — 10% ABV Imperial Stout. This glittering brew came as a collaboration for the Black Is Beautiful equality and inclusion campaign, and all proceeds go to the Sister Fund RVA and Campaign Zero. With maple syrup, New Guinea vanilla beans, a touch of cinnamon, Roanoke Coffee, and shimmering edible gold glitter, this recipe was inspired to end injustices against POC and promote equality in our community. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Ardent Craft Ales 

Curbside pickup and delivery are available at Ardent Craft Ales, along with beer shipping across Virginia and D.C. Ardent partially reopened their beer garden last month, and they’ll be serving food every day as well. Don’t forget to check out their full menu for food, as well! Be sure to check out their new policies during Covid-19. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • MOORE ST. DIPA — 9% ABV Double IPA. Moore St. is the biggest, boldest addition to Ardent’s series featuring streets from Scott’s Addition. Double dry-hopped with Galaxy and Amarillo, this brew is full of flavors like orange and pineapple in a soft, smooth, minimally-bitter DIPA. 
  • ATLANTICO — 4.4% ABV Mexican-Style Lager. This summertime crusher is brand-new, and was brewed with flaked corn and rice for a dry, refreshing finish. Light-bodied with minimal bitterness, Ardent says this one is the perfect beer on a hot summer afternoon. 
  • MIXED BERRY GOSE — 4.4% ABV Gose. Brewed with raspberry, blackberry, boysenberry, and black currant, Mixed Berry Gose pours a distinctive purple color with a sweet, jammy flavor to balance the tart acidity of the style. 
  • SPILLMATIC — Collab with Short Throw Brewing and Equilibrium Brewery. 10.1% ABV Triple IPA. Adorned with copious amounts of Strata, Galaxy, and Citra. Dry-hopped with the same varietals. Tangerine, pineapple, mango, and citrus notes dominate the palate and aroma, paired with a smooth, unobtrusive malt bill. 
  • RESTING MY GREATNESS — Short Throw Brewing Co. available at Ardent. 11.8% ABV Imperial Stout with coffee, Vermont maple syrup, and whole vanilla beans. 
  • IMPERIAL STOUT WITH VANILLA & CACAO NIBS — 11% ABV Imperial Stout. Bold, full-bodied beer that pours deep black with a tan head. Rich, chocolatey sweetness complements the roasted malt character for a balanced stout with a smooth finish. 
  • BOHEMIAN PILSNER — 4.8% ABV Czech-Style Pilsner. Brewed with a simple recipe of Czech floor malt, Saaz hops, and a Czech lager yeast. Clear golden color with soft mouthfeel, spicy hop notes, and clean finish.

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Black Heath Meadery

Black Heath Meadery has the patio open for plenty of great outdoor events now, so keep up with them on Facebook for the latest updates — and be sure to wear your mask! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST MEADS 

  • MEAD SLUSHEES — Check out Black Heath’s Facebook page for daily flavor updates! The most recent editions are Blueberry Lemon and Cherry Lime. 
  • JERRY VANILLA — Sour Cherry mead aged in Reservoir bourbon barrels with vanilla beans and cacao nibs. 
  • BLUE ANGEL — Gold Medal Mazer Cup International award winner. Batch 6 utilizes Jonagold apples and VA wildflower honey. 
  • GINGER — Traditional mead fermented with VA wildflower honey and Casselmonte Farms baby yellow ginger. 
  • MEADSAIC — Traditional mead dry hopped with Mosaic. 
  • SOUR CHERRY — Traditional strength mead fermented with VA wildflower honey, Montmorency and Balaton cherries. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Bryant’s Cider 

The new Bryant’s Cider location in Richmond opened this summer, and we’re stoked to keep up with their latest releases. They’re offering shipping and pickup, so if you want to drink from home, they’ve got you covered! Stay tuned for more info on their latest project, River City Seltzer, which is opening up in September. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST CIDERS 

  • LEO — The latest in Bryants Cider’s zodiac series, Leo is coming soon… and this special edition is flavored with habanero and pineapple. Stay tuned for release date! 
  • BLUEBERRY LAVENDER AND LIME — A brand-new cider recipe featuring blueberry, lavender, and lime flavors with Crescent Simples. 
  • RED EYE — Coffee collaboration with Recluse Roasting Project. This brut cider is made with a single origin bean from a farm named Cual Bicicleta in Honduras. Bryant’s says, “The coffee is amazing, just like the cider it’s cold brewed in.” 
  • GEMINI — Zodiac series Cider. A blood orange and hibiscus cider made with the air signs in mind. 
  • CANCER — Zodiac series Cider. A blueberry cider with the perfect combination between tart and dry. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Center Of The Universe 

Center of the Universe is offering pickup and delivery services, and their Beer Garden is open for business! Be sure to check here before you head out to Ashland, and ensure you’re up-to-date on their new policies to keep everyone safe. 

Pickup: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • OKTOBERFEST — Traditional German Märzen with a clean, light-malty sweetness.  Balanced with a light breadiness and cracker aroma.  
  • THERE GOSE SUMMER TANGERINE GOSE — German-Style Sour. Brewed with heaps of tangerine and a dash of salt, this slightly tart brew will make the “agony of a diminishing summer” a little less dreadful, and much more flavorful. Available in 4-packs and at the brewery. 
  • PINEAPPLE WHIP — 6.5% ABV Oat-based beer. Brewed in collaboration with Origin Beer Lab, this beer was made with whole Madagascar vanilla beans and pineapple juice. The result is a creamy, full bodied-brew that “takes your taste buds on a tropical escape.”
  • MONKEY’S UNCLE LEMONGRASS TRIPEL — 9% ABV Belgian Tripel. Brewed with local lemongrass, with a light, crisp body and straw color. Fresh lemongrass grown by Village Garden added to the boil for a refreshing treat. 
  • CREATIVE JUICES IIIPA — 10% ABV Double IPA. Big, bold, juicy, and gives back! This DIPA is a collaboration with Connor’s Heroes to help celebrate their 10th Annual Heroes Art Ball, which is virtual this year. $5 from every 4-pack will go straight to Connor’s Heroes.
  • BLACKBERRY CRYSTAL COTU — Low calorie, gluten-reduced, fruity and fizzy hard seltzer. Available in 4-packs and at the brewery. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Dragon Run Brewing

Dragon Run Brewing is a charming space located to our east. If you’re looking for a new day trip out of the city, this is your spot — and they’ve got plenty of unique recipes to make it worth your while. With a blend of history behind each brew, Dragon Run brings something fresh to the table with every glass. 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • KEY LIME PIE — The latest in Dragon Run’s “Grandma’s Sour Pie” series. This one brings out the down-home dessert flavors with real key lime, plus graham cracker notes and a creamy finish. 
  • MATTAPO-NELPA — Hazy New England Style IPA, back on tap this week. 
  • BORN HERE RASPBERRY LEMONADE SHANDY — 4.4% ABV Raspberry Lemonade Shandy. This one takes the Born Here Pilsner and mixes it with fresh raspberry lemonade for a summertime treat. 
  • BRAXTON’S BITTER — 5.2% ABV English IPA. Named after the local founding father, Carter Braxton, who signed the Declaration of Independence among other things, this English Bitter has a slightly sweet malty taste and then an English Hop bite that is reminiscent of that old English Pub taste. 
  • MARY OF ORANGE — 4.5% ABV Cream Ale. You know William of Orange, but do you know his wife, Mary Of Orange? This beer is brewed for Mary of William and Mary (Or the Queen in King and Queen County). This is a light cream ale that has a subtle taste of both orange and vanilla to remind you of that favorite ice cream treat, perfect for a warm summer day. 
  • TOM’S “COFFEY” STOUT — 6.6% ABV Coffee Stout. This coffee stout is a coffee lover’s dream. Big, bold coffee taste, combined with the malty fullness, and finished with a creamy top provided by the nitro tap. Just like drinking a cold-brew coffee. Named after the brewers’ maternal grandfather, Tom Coffey, who was a legend in his own time, made this beer to be worthy of his namesake. 
  • BLACK CHERRY HARD SELTZER — 4% ABV Hard Seltzer. A hard seltzer for those that want a gluten free option. Touched off with with fresh fruit juices for a refreshing taste. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Final Gravity Brewing Co. 

Final Gravity Brewing Co. is open for pickup and delivery. To-go pours are available for every brew you could dream of: all you need to do is grab a Crowler! The brewery will be hosting food trucks and some new events as well, so be sure to stay safe and wear your mask. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • DOPPLER EFFECT IPA — 7% ABV Flagship IPA. Back on tap, brewed with all Mosaic hops! Juicy New England-style IPA, crisp and clear like West Coast style. 
  • ITALIAN STYLE DRY-HOPPED PILSNER — Also back on tap this week (so get it while you can)! Dry-hopped with Mandarina Bavaria and Hallertau Blanc hops. 
  • JUICE BOX HAZY DOUBLE IPA — 8% ABV Double IPA. This hazy beauty was brewed with Strata, Belma, and Citra hops. 
  • TANGERINE GOSE — Ancient Mariner and Habanero Mango. 
  • VAPOUR TRAIL HAZY DOUBLE IPA — 8% ABV Hazy Double IPA brewed with Citra and Falconer’s Flight hops. 
  • STEPPING STONE BLONDE ALE — 5% ABV Blonde Ale. 
  • CASSIOPEIA HAZY DOUBLE IPA — This fan favorite is back in the online store, and it’s no wonder it’s been so well-received in its time. Dry-hopped with Cashmere and Mosaic hops, Cassiopeia is full of tropical fruit notes, pineapple forward with a touch of dankness and a smooth finish. 
  • STARDUST HAZY IPA — 6% ABV. Hopped with BRU-1 and Mosaic, Stardust IPA has bright, floral characteristics and a pineapple punch. 
  • RITES OF SPRING GINGER HONEY LAGER — 5.5% ABV. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Fine Creek Brewing Company 

Beer delivery and pickup is available at Fine Creek Brewing Company! Check out their website for a full list of beers available, and below for new brews on tap. With brand-new recipes and old favorites back in stock, there’s something for everyone at the Powhatan farmhouse. 

The Wild & Weird Festival is back!! This festival is one of my favorites each year, because it brings together all the best styles of beer that aren’t your regular IPA. All of September will be showcasing some of Fine Creek’s favorite beers brewed at the farm, and some brewed with their friends as well. All seating will be outdoor, and orders and pickups will take place at the bar if you’re heading out to spend the day with these awesome brewers. 

Some more exciting news from Fine Creek: they’re now Craft Malt Certified. That means they’ve committed to purchasing more than 10 percent of all the malt they use from craft malthouses inside the Craft Maltsters Guild. A note from Fine Creek: “We buy a lot more than 10 percent, and often brew beers that are made with 100 percent locally-sourced malt. This is important not only to the end product of what we produce, but to the very essence of everything we do.” 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • RKATSITELI SOUR — 6.6% ABV Golden Sour collab with Blenheim Vineyards. Rkatsiteli is a grape often used to produce white wine, and is one of the oldest cultivated grape varieties. The beer has a funky, floral aroma with notes of gooseberry, peach skin, and subdued oak. The flavor leads with a predominant combination of white grape and tart lemon, which gives way to layers of spice and mixed berry. Despite an initial juicy and round mouthfeel the beer finishes with a refreshing, drying tartness. 
  • GOLDEN SOUR — Bottled Sour Ale. The barrels layered this beer with notes of mixed berries, red wine, oaky tannins, and vanilla. Golden sour culture brought a bright acidity, along with flavors of lemon and fresh pineapple. This beer combines deeper wine barrel tones with a refreshing tart palate and a dry and tannic finish.
  • GERMAN PILSNER — 4.8% ABV Pilsner. Light Bodied, malt-forward. Floral, grassy, & herbal hop notes. 
  • PROTOSCIENCE IPA — 7.3% ABV IPA. Orange, papaya, and mild grapefruit flavors with a rich, fruity character. 
  • RAYGUN GOTHIC IPA — 7.5% ABV IPA. Pineapple and tropical fruit flavors with a full mouthfeel. 
  • CITRUS HONEY SAISON — Back on tap! The last keg of this beloved brew is coming back this Friday, and it’s only available for a limited time. It goes fast, according to Fine Creek, and it’ll also be available on the next canning run. 
  • VITALISM IPA — Hazy IPA. This new release was dry-hopped with Kohatu and Mosaic hops, combining for a sweet aroma of bright tropical fruit, with notes of freshly cut papaya and pineapple. Earlier additions of Idaho 7 and German Amarillo hops contribute more to the flavor, which features fruity tones alongside black tea, citrus zest, and a mild floral note. Vitalism has a medium body and a round mouthfeel that is paired with enough bitterness to avoid feeling too rich. 
  • AMERICAN STOUT — 7% ABV. The latest batch comes from English Pale malts from Murphy & Rude Malting Co. in Charlottesville, and with a nutty and sweet backbone, this one was layered in Toasted Oats and Crystal Wheat to build up a sweeter tone of whole grain cereal and baked goods. Toasty notes of black coffee and baker’s chocolate, medium body balanced by a subtle hop flavor. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Garden Grove Brewing & Urban Winery 

Garden Grove is offering curbside pickup, carry-out orders, and same-day delivery! Masks are required to visit their taproom, and they’ve been offering some great new brews to get us through the insanity that is the summer of 2020. We don’t know where we’d be without local beer through all of this! Check below for fresh releases and more updates. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • MUNICH KOLSCH — 4.8% ABV Kolsch. The latest recipe is a traditional, crisp golden brew with slight floral aromas (and it’s a sneak peek at their upcoming Oktoberfest lineup)! 
  • TYPHOON PASSION FRUIT AND MANGO HONEY WINE — 7% ABV Honey Wine. Sweet tropical aromas of passion fruit and mango swing together. “Bursting with big, bold flavors wave after wave.” 
  • MADELINE SAISON — 6.5% ABV Saison. Notes of classic banana and spice. Soft bodied, with flavors of tropical fruit, white pepper and rye.
  • ARASSAS KOLSCH — 4.8% ABV German-Style Kolsch. 
  • DEATH — 10% ABV Belgian. Brings out as much ripe and dark fruit flavors reminiscent of rich red wines as possible, by fermenting with red wine grapes from each year’s harvest. Death is made once a year in tandem with the Virginia wine grape harvest schedule. 
  • CARTOON VILLAIN IPA — 7% ABV IPA. Tropical and juicy. 
  • MOZU — 8% Peach Yuzu Honey Wine. Flavors and color from White and Blood Peaches, balanced by bright and shiny Yuzu. “Confuse your palate” with this brew that’s both sweet and dry. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Hardywood Park Craft Brewery 

Hardywood Richmond and West Creek locations are open! And just look at that awesome setup above at West Creek. The outdoor spaces have been rearranged to allow for proper social distancing, and all us Hardywood fans can now visit them again safely. If you’d rather drink from home, online ordering is still available with all of Hardywood’s best. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • GRAPEFRUIT SINGEL — Hardywood’s classic flagship, Singel, gets a zesty makeover to help beat the summertime heat with the addition of refreshing grapefruit. 
  • TRIUMVIRATE — This New England-Style IPA has notes of fresh mandarin, orange, lemon peel, and a hint of pineapple. 
  • TRIADIC — New England-Style IPA with “a hop combination like no other.” Motueka, Nelson Sauvin and Bramling Cross hops blend together a triad of flavors – citrus, tropical fruit and black currant. Chewy and juicy with a balanced bitterness. 
  • RICHMOND LAGER LIME — Richmond Lager Lime still has the same local ingredients we love, including Virginia-grown malt and hops. Real lime juice takes this beer to the next level. 
  • DREAMLIKE — Malted Wheat and Flaked Oats round out this dreamy New England Style IPA using Galaxy, Azzaca, Falconers Flight and Cascade hops in both Whirlpool and Dry Hopping on this iteration. 
  • CUVEE PEACH — Peach Tripel matured in freshly-dumped white wine barrels to allow for a true depth of flavor to develop. The result is a beautifully complex beer with stone fruit esters and juicy peach undertones, complemented by a pleasantly dry finish. 
  • STRAIGHT TALK VOL. I & VOL. II — The Straight Talk Series are a “single barrel & single beer experience.” Vol. I is an Imperial Milk Stout, perfectly balanced with notes of silky chocolate and toffee, plus vanilla and smooth dark caramel from its bourbon barrel. Vol. II is a Saison aged in Red Wine Barrels for 11 months. 
  • RICHMOND DARK LAGER — The same refreshing and crisp experience of its original recipe, with an ever-so-slight sweet dark malt characteristic. Although visually darker then its golden bubbly brother, Richmond Dark Lager does not have the roasty characteristics you might usually find in a beer this color. 
  • PEACH TRIPEL — A bright, effervescent tripel with a balance of white pepper and honeysuckle. Refermented on apricots and heaps of yellow peaches for a stone fruit taste and dry finish. 
  • NONE OF THIS MAKES SENSE — Double IPA. New England Style, brewed with Mosaic and El Dorado hops. 
  • SUNCRUSH — Summer’s favorite hard seltzer. Check Hardywood’s ordering site for available flavors! 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Intermission Beer Company 

Intermission is open! These brewers have taken it to the next level this summer with beer slushies (and yes, it’s as good as it sounds). A recent favorite is their Honey Hibiscus Saison Slushie, plus the Abbey Colada — which adds Piña Colada mix to the Abbey Ale for a tropical banana, coconut, and pineapple delight. Masks are required to enter. Taproom and patio seating are available, and no pets during this time. It’s first-come, first-serve, and it’ll be closed for seating once they reach capacity. Always remember to wear your mask and keep folks safe! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • BEER SLUSHIES! — Check Facebook every Friday to see the weekend’s flavor. 
  • HONEY HIBISCUS SAISON — 5.9% ABV Saison Farmhouse Ale. Light bodied with a slightly tart, dry finish. Notes of fresh honey along with a pink hue. 
  • TROPICAL THUNDER IPA — 7% ABV American IPA. Malt base with tropical fruit hop notes, doubled down with passion fruit, mango, and pineapple. 
  • HATHOR GOSE — 4.6% ABV. Bright pink Sour Ale in collaboration with the local RVA chapter of the Pink Boots Society and Stone Brewing Co. Raspberry puree and pink Himalayan sea salt add bold berry flavor and a neon pink color, together with subtle citrus and light hoppy character. 
  • GHOST LIGHT LAGER — 5% ABV. Light and crisp American Lager. Gluten Reduced.
  • STRAWBERRY BLONDE — 5.7% ABV. American Pale Wheat beer. Light body, low bitterness and of course: Strawberries!
  • HONEY HIBISCUS SAISON — 5.9% ABV. Farmhouse Saison Ale. Light bodied slightly tart with a dry finish. Uniquely refreshing with notes of fresh honey and a lovely pink hue. 
  • OVATION HARD SELTZERS — Raspberry and Orange flavors available. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Isley Brewing Company 

To-go brews are available at Isley Brewing Company! Indoor and outdoor seating is available, and dogs are welcome if they’re leashed. Be sure to ask about the latest Ice-sley slushie flavors, because these brewers have something fresh every week. No reservations required, and be sure to wear your mask! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • ICE-SLEY SLUSHIES — Check in every week for fresh new slushie flavors! Bahama Mama IPA and Peach Sour are recent favorites. 
  • I’LL BEE BOCK — 8% ABV. Single / Traditional Bock. Hopped exclusively with Czech Saaz hops, and finished with a clean German lager yeast, the beer pours a light copper, with a thick, creamy head. 
  • SUNBURNT COUNTRY IPA — 8.5% IPA. A Hazy DIPA, brewed exclusively with varietals grown only in the Southern Hemisphere. The beer pours a cloudy yellow, with a soft, pillowy foam.
  • TEA-RIFFIC — 6% ABV Amber Ale. Growing up, summer in the South meant… Sweet Tea! They’ve brewed a malty Amber Ale, infused it with heaps of Black Tea, and sweetened it right up with approximately 100 percent of pure cane sugar. 
  • SET SAIL — 6% ABV Hopped Lemon Pale Ale. Brewed with late additions of Mandarina Bavaria and Citra hop varietals, and lemon and orange zest, the wheat and barley blended base is a perfect vessel to let the fresh, citrus flavors really shine. 
  • OFF THE BOULEVARD — 5% Irish Red Ale. Balanced, easy-drinking traditional Irish Red Ale. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery 

Multi-state shipping and drive through pickup available! The taproom is also open, and with plenty of awesome outdoor seating, the farm at Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery is one you don’t want to miss. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — 10% ABV Imperial Dessert Stout. This one is for the true stout lovers out there. Lickinghole Creek took the Black Is Beautiful recipe from Weathered Souls Brewing, and tried to keep it as true to the original as possible. “We wanted this beer to showcase the masterfully roasted and caramel malt graciously donated from Murphy and Rude Malting out of Charlottesville, VA. We get huge notes of deeply roasted coffee, rich cacao, creamy vanilla, and caramel toffee.” All proceeds will go to organizations in pursuit of ending racial and social injustice everywhere. 
  • JUICY #22 — 7.5% ABV. Juicy 22 is layered with orange zest, orange juice, and with a soft kiss of vanilla. Juicy 22 showcases the wonderful hop LOTUS. (This is a personal favorite of mine, so I definitely encourage you to try it!) 
  • BLUEBERRY FRENCH TOAST IMPERIAL BROWN ALE — 8% ABV Brown Ale. This American Brown Ale was conditioned on fresh vanilla, cinnamon, and blueberries with a noticeable maple syrup flavor. 
  • NUCLEAR NUGGET IMPERIAL HONEY IPA — 10.5% ABV. While it’s not brand-new, it’s worth noting as a fan favorite. This hop bomb is a lot of things. One thing it is not, is subtle. Nuclear Nugget explodes the nose with notes of citrus, flowers, and Centennial hops, then the nuclear fallout is accompanied by local clover honey, to bring everybody back to safety. 
  • GOOCHLAND QUADRUPEL ALE — 11.2% ABV. Tasting notes of raisin, plum, prune, and currants. Easily drinkable, complex, and refreshing. 
  • BEAR BAIT BERLINER WEISSE WITH BLACKBERRIES — 4% ABV. Blended with Blackberries to create a tart, crisp, fruity, and beautifully hued-libation. 
  • WATERMELON GOSE — 5% ABV. Traditional German-style wheat ale. Expect a light and crisp beer with notes of sour, salt, and juicy watermelon on your taste buds.

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Starr Hill Richmond Beer Hall & Rooftop 

Starr Hill RVA is also keeping things safe, with to-go beer sales taking place during abbreviated business hours. All of their year-round beers will be available, in addition to some special favorites from the brewery. 

Pickup: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • AIR DRUMMER HAZY IPA — The latest brew from Starr Hill, available now after its debut in April! This Hazy IPA is out on tap and in 4-pack cans for pickup. 
  • HEY BUDDY — The latest pilot batch from right here in Richmond. This beer is dedicated to Starr Hill’s buddy, Dio, who’s been a member of the crew for over 10 years. This golden brew lagered in our tanks for over five months, for a crisp and refreshing finish. 
  • FESTIE — Oktoberfest Lager. This recipe is rich, malty, and perfectly refreshing for the season. 
  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — Starr Hill’s recipe of the Weathered Souls Brewing initiative. This hopped-up stout was brewed with Chinook, Citra, Centennial and Falconer’s Flight. 100 percent of the proceeds go to the Equal Justice Initiative! 
  • DOUBLE PLATINUM IMPERIAL IPA — 8.6% ABV Imperial IPA. Brand-new Imperial IPA from Starr Hill, limited edition! 
  • KING KUNU PINEAPPLE IPA — Pineapple IPA. 4-packs available from the brewery. 
  • SAY IT AIN’T SOUR — 12-pack that brings together all the best Starr Hill Gose brews. Pixie Pineapple Gose, Carly Cucumber Gose, Carole Cran-Raspberry Gose and Lola Guava Gose. 
  • RECEIVER RED IPA — Another brand-new recipe from Starr Hill in a Double Dry-Hopped Red IPA. 
  • SUBLIME CITRUS WIT — Witbier. New recipe with a fresh lime zest. Citrus, wheat, and spice meld together to create the perfect summer beverage. 
  • CARLY CUCUMBER GOSE — 6-pack of the new Gose recipe. 
  • CAROLE CRAN-RASPBERRY GOSE — A cranberry-raspberry infusion in 6-packs available at Starr Hill. 
  • PIXIE PINEAPPLE GOSE — Another fresh recipe available in 6-packs. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Stone Brewing Richmond 

Stone Brewing Richmond is open for pick-up! This awesome East End brewery has had some delicious releases lately, and they’ve got brews ready at the door if you plan to take them home. The patio is open as well, so mask up and head out for some great new releases. Stone also has a great new “Odd Beers for Odd Years” series going on, so stay tuned for updates as special releases come out! 

Pickup: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • OLD GUARDIAN — Triple IPA. This one-time-only release, part of Stone’s “Odd Beers for Odd Years” series, takes a downright excessive brew into uncharted, extra-hoppy territory. They did this by dry-hopping it with Azacca hops, essentially turning an American barley wine into a triple IPA. Like its Classic counterpart, this delicious oddity has evolved into an even more glorious beer with age, and now the Stone Old Guardian Barley Wine (Extra Hoppy) is on tap in Richmond. 
  • FEATURES & BENEFITS — 4% ABV IPA. This new recipe is Stone’s low-calorie IPA, a trend we’ve been seeing more of this summer (and loving it!) Gluten-reduced, hop forward flavor with 95 calories. 
  • STONE BUENAVEZA SALT & LIME LAGER — 4.7% ABV Lager. This one has been a favorite this summer, so grab one while you can! 
  • ENTER NIGHT PILSNER — 5.7% ABV Pilsner. German-style pilsner with low bitterness and bright tastes. 
  • STONE RIPPER ALE — 5.7% ABV West-Coast style Pale Ale. 
  • 24 CARROT GOLDEN ALE — Belgian-Style Ale. Carrot cake-inspired recipe between Stone, Juli Goldenberg, and Monkeypaw. 
  • RUINED AGAIN TRIPLE IPA — 10.8% ABV Triple IPA. Available in Crowlers to-go and at the brewery. This one’s coming out officially on August 10! 
  • NOTORIOUS P.O.G — 4.7% ABV Berliner Weisse. Tart, tropical, and “damn tasty.” 
  • STONE TIKI ESCAPE — 7.7% ABV IPA. Tropical, fruit-forward IPA brewed with Sabro and Mosaic hops. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Strangeways Brewing 

All three Strangeways Brewing tasting rooms are open for delivery, curbside pick-up, and to-go orders! They’re also open for draft brews, and wear your mask when visiting in-person. Be sure to check their website for updates. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • SINEWY — 8% ABV Strong Saison. A fan favorite for years, Sinewy is basically an imperial farmhouse ale, made with Vienna, White Wheat, and Belgian Aromatic Malts then generously hopped Sorachi Ace. Fermented very dry producing a crushable farmhouse ale with notes of honey, green peppercorn, earth, and freshly cut hay. 
  • I KNOW WIT YOU DID LAST SUMMER — 5.4% ABV Sour Witbier. Combines the spice of a traditional Belgian wit, with the mellow tart of German sour wheat ale. A subtle citrus characteristic sticks around from nose to aftertaste, briefly replacing mid-taste with a light peppery sweet tart. 
  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — Imperial Stout. Highlights intense roast character with moderate sweetness and subtle booze on the nose. 100 percent of proceeds benefit Girls for a Change. 
  • SHIMMER & SHAKE — Spiked Sparkling Seltzer. Lemon-lime flavors, with a light, crisp, and effervescent taste for summertime. 
  • AFM WILD ALE — Farmhouse Saison. 2-row, Vienna, and Wheat Malts. Heavily hopped with Columbus in the brewhouse, then aged 22 months in French Oak barrels. Strong, but drinkable, with a balance between hops and funk. 
  • FULL STACK LUMBERJACK — Stout. Dark, rich and luscious. Conditioned with pure Wisconsin Little Man maple syrup and thick-cut Smithfield maple flavored bacon. 
  • GNAR SHREDDER — Double IPA. Soft and pillowy with light sweetness. Intensely fruity from big additions of Vic Secret and Cashmere hops giving notes of passionfruit, peach, pear, and rock candy. Double dry-hopped. 
  • LEGALIZE IT — Small Axe West Coast-Style IPA in honor of the recent decriminalization of marijuana in Virginia. 
  • LUCKY CHARMS BERLINER WEISSE — Cloudy, sour wheat beer. Dry, fruity funk with a sharp tartness. 
  • SEA SPRITZ — Cranberry Berliner Weisse. 
  • WAKE ME UP BEFORE YOU GOSE — Lighthearted Germanic Sour. Lemony tartness alongside Sicilian sea salt, coriander, and ginger to “put the boom-boom into your heart.” 
  • WHAT THE ASTRONAUTS DRINK — Sour Berliner Weisse. Infused with orange flavored drink mix for a familiar tangy flavor. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Three Notch’d RVA Collab House

Three Notch’d RVA Collab House is open for business, and they just welcomed a new Head Brewer in August: Bobby Faithful. With a wealth of professional brewing experience (including being the director of the brewing program at University of Richmond), Bobby’s got plenty of new recipes to cook up for the River City. Between pickup and delivery services, in addition to a great patio, Three Notch’d RVA is bringing lots of fresh tastes into this summer. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • HANSEL & KETTLE IMPERIAL OKTOBERFEST — 8% ABV Oktoberfest. This imperial version of the classic Marzen style has Munich and Vienna malts, which give the beer a toast-like malt sweetness, balanced by the classic spice profile of German Noble Hops. 
  • BROADCAST BREW COFFEE BROWN ALE — Inspired by the flavors of a morning cup o’ joe, this craft creation uses a special blend of beans from Rostov’s Coffee & Tea. Notes of caramel and chocolate make this a delicious breakfast beer. 
  • NEPHOLOGY LOTUS — 7.8% ABV. the newest development of the HopSteiner’s Hop Breeding Program. A descendant of Cascade Eastern Gold and Apollo, look for flavors and aroma of orange, vanilla, and tropical fruit. 
  • BARREL-AGED BERRY SOUR — 6.4% ABV Sour. A wine barrel-aged sour ale brewed with blackberries and raspberries, straight from the Three Notch’d Sour House collection. 
  • SULTANA OF SWING — 7.5% ABV New England IPA. Bursting with bright, citrusy orange, resinous pine, and ripe pineapple flavors. Heavy handled dry-hopping with Sultana and Amarillo hops give this brew a big fruity and citrusy aroma, and a flavor to match. 
  • BLACK CHERRY HARD SELTZER — Hard Seltzer. Low sugar, low carb, and only 100 calories for the days you’re craving something lighter. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Triple Crossing Beer

Triple Crossing Beer has to-go and delivery options available, and can shipping is another option as well. Visit their patio for some outdoor time in the East End, and wear your mask! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • CLEVER GIRL IPA — It’s back! 6% ABV IPA. This light-bodied, soft, and dry American IPA has impressions of tropical citrus and dark berry floral aromas. 
  • BOBBY FALCON — 4.5% ABV. The beloved Falcon brew is reimagined here, with tropical papaya, pineapple, white grape melon, and a classic Falcon orange oil citrus marmalade. 
  • LITTLE HILLTOP — 3.8% ABV Kellerbier. This Franconian-inspired recipe has an “effortlessly session-able ABV,” comprised of a simple grain bill with a hop kettle treatment. 
  • BUTTERCUP GRISETTE — 4.5% ABV. Open-fermented Grisette comprised of pilsner malt, spelt, red wheat and flaked barley. 
  • FALCON SMASH IPA — Flagship IPA. Dank hop character from Falconer’s Flight dry-hop process. 
  • PARANOID — 5% ABV Pale Ale. Mango, sweet apricot, and floral grapefruit orange. Built for summer!
  • FOEDER I  — 5% ABV Golden Ale. Candied pineapple, fresh pomelo, light notes of dill and sweet honey with a restrained acidity and dry finish.
  • SIMCOE TRIANGLES — Bright pink grapefruit, pulpy-melon, and citrus flavors. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Väsen Brewing Company

Väsen is open for pickup and delivery! Outdoor seating is available, so please wear your mask and keep folks safe. They’ve recently released a great array of fresh new brews, and we can’t wait to grab a glass of every one! Kegs are also available to take home. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • TRIPLE PEACH SAISON — 6.2% ABV Saison. This crisp, fruity brew was made with white, yellow, and blood peach to get a deep, natural character which perfectly complements the classic saison flavors of spice and clove. 
  • NORSE DIPA — Returning alongside Triple Peach Saison in cans, this hazy double dry-hopped IPA was made with Citra, Mosaic, and Amarillo hops. 
  • COHESION — This collab with Capsoul and Chilalay brought us a brand-new Hazy Double IPA, and it’s focused on community health, cultural awareness, and social change. African Queen, Azacca, and Southern Passion hops lend aromas of pear and white grape, along with flavors of tangerine and vanilla. Support your community simply by having a beer! 
  • EVERYTHING FLOATS ON GUAVA AND PASSION FRUIT — Bold, dry-hopped sour… and all of it floats on a fruity foundation of real guava and passion fruit. Along with the tropical flavors dominating this tart brew, you’ll also find subtle citrus aromas and pleasant floral character from a light addition of citra hops. 
  • Gård — Wild sour ale with a bright, tropical character. 
  • FEASTA — 8% ABV Hazy DIPA. Brewed with Nelson Sauvin, Citra, and Vic Secret Hops. 
  • NEOMEXICANUS — 8% ABV Hazy DIPA. Brewed with Sabro, El Dorado, and Azacca hops.
  • APRICOT SOUR — 7% ABV Sour Ale. Brewed with apricot for a summery, fruity flavor. 
  • MIERKA — 6% ABV Farmhouse Brett Saison. Dry-hopped with Citra and Amarillo hops. 
  • FREYJA — 6% ABV Hazy IPA. Brewed with Mosaic, Rakau, and the 2019 Pink Boots Hop Blend. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

The Veil Brewing Co. 

The Veil Brewing Co. is hosting outdoor to-go sales from both locations. They’ve also got shipping available to select states, and they’re currently open for curbside pickup only. Patio lovers, stay tuned for openings in the future! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • DIRT NAP — 8.8% ABV. DIPA featuring Galaxy, Citra, Mosaic, and Nelson Sauvin! This batch is popping with juicy papaya and a Southern Hemisphere tropical muskiness that is perfectly balanced by the American Citra and Mosaic. 
  • STRANGE STRANGE & ETERNAL ETERNAL — 6% ABV. Strange Strange & Eternal Eternal is a double dry-hopped IPA with Citra, Mosaic, Motueka, and Simcoe. Tastes like gushers fruit snacks. A unique, cool, soft crusher. 
  • CARRY ME — 8% ABV. Carry Me is a brand new Double India Pale Ale that’s heavy on the fluffy oats and hopped with a blend of Citra, Nelson, Idaho 7, BRU-1, Enigma, and Mosaic. Layered notes of strawberry and skittles candy. 
  • NEVER NEVER CALM CALM — 5.1% ABV Gose with the awesome fruit combo of double passion fruit and double pineapple. Tasty vibes of canned fruit cups, peach skin, and obviously tons of passion fruit and pineapple. 
  • HOLLOW PLACE 500ML BOTTLE — 10.5% ABV. Hollow Place: Vanilla Walnut is a new Imperial Stout conditioned on piles of crushed walnuts and freshly split Madagascar vanilla beans. Awesome oily flavors of rich vanilla cake, walnut fudge, and candy bars. 
  • VEIN — 4.5% ABV. Pilsner step-mashed with floor-malted barley and hopped with Saaz and Tettnang. Crispy, hoppy, and thirst-quenching.
  • LOVELY — 5.2% ABV. Lovely is a blend of a Farmhouse-inspired Pale Ale and a 100% wheat Farmhouse-inspired ale. Both beers were barrel fermented, inoculated with our house culture, and aged in French oak red wine barrels for 12 months.
  • ERODE — 6.1% ABV. Farmhouse-inspired Ale brewed with pilsner malt, spelt, and some flaked rye, then hopped throughout the entire process with whole leaf Hallertau, Tettnang, and Cascade alongside pellets of Citra, Hallertau Blanc, and a bit of Lemondrop. Impressions of spritzy orange citrus soda, clean minerality, round hoppiness. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

That’s it for this week’s RVA On Tap! As your weekly columnist, I’m here to take all your beer releases, event info, ideas and questions. If you’re a brewer, send me your release info at [email protected], and if you’re a beer enthusiast, drop me a line anytime to talk booze. Catch y’all next week! 

RVA ON TAP: Dragon Run & Fresh River City Brews

Caley Sturgill | August 12, 2020

Topics: Ardent craft ales, bars richmond va, beer, beer column, Black Heath Meadery, bryants cider, Center Of The Universe Brewing, craft beer richmond va, craft beer RVA, Dragon Run Brewing, Final Gravity, Fine Creek Brewing Company, garden grove, happy hour richmond va, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, Intermission Beer Company, Isley Brewing Company, Lickinghole Creek, RVA On Tap, Starr Hill, Stone brewing, strangeways, the answer brewpub, The Veil Brewing Co., Three Notch’d RVA Collab House, triple crossing, Vasen Brewing Company

What’s happening, craft beer lovers of RVA?! Welcome to this week’s RVA On Tap, RVA Magazine’s weekly column for all the Booze News your hearts desire. 

As the River City slowly transitions into a new normal during the pandemic, we’re highlighting the best local brewers. From in-person outdoor events to take-home and delivery beers, let’s support our local businesses together — and stay safe in the process. 

We’ll be bringing you fresh news in the beer world with guidelines on safety. If you’re planning to venture out during the pandemic, your RVA Magazine team wants to stress the importance of wearing your mask. As we all support our favorite brewers, let’s also support the community by taking precautions to ensure everyone stays healthy. 

We’ve got pickup and delivery services from locals like The Answer Brewpub, Ardent Craft Ales, Black Heath Meadery, Bryant’s Cider, Center of the Universe Brewing, Dragon Run Brewing, Final Gravity, Fine Creek Brewing Company, Garden Grove, Hardywood, Intermission Beer Company, Isley Brewing Company, Lickinghole Creek, Starr Hill, Stone Brewing, Strangeways, Three Notch’d RVA, Triple Crossing, Väsen Brewing Company, The Veil Brewing Co. and more. 

Drink up, Virginia! 

The Answer Brewpub 

At The Answer Brewpub, fresh brews are here to cool down these hot summer days. 

Takeout is available, and you’ll want to keep up with The Answer on Facebook to see updates on pre-sales for their latest recipes. This week, we’ve got a brand-new beer available, along with a few special releases from the summer. 

Pickup: To-go locations and info updated regularly on Instagram. 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • CAFE CON LECHE COCONUT BANANA — Now available on the Frozan machine at The Answer. 
  • HEH HEH HEH HRR RRR HEH HEH HEH HEH HUH RAKAU! HA HRR DIPA — Double IPA. A mouthful just to speak aloud. This is Batch 3 of The Answer’s New Zealand Rakau DIPA, with an excessive triple dry-hop treatment for stone fruit, peach, and apricot flavors. 
  • YOU PUT YOUR WHEAT IN THERE — Huge body from its wheat heavy grain bill, and “jumps out of the can” with intense candied citrus aroma. 
  • HARD TO GET A TICKET — 100% Mosaic DIPA ready in a fresh batch. Described as a “tropical fruit bowl,” the Double IPA is available in 4-packs. 
  • SUMMER SHOWERS — 6.5% ABV Citrus IPA. Ready to carry you through clear skies or summer rains, this pillowy-soft IPA is available in 4-packs. 
  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — 10% ABV Imperial Stout. This glittering brew came as a collaboration for the Black Is Beautiful equality and inclusion campaign, and all proceeds go to the Sister Fund RVA and Campaign Zero. With maple syrup, New Guinea vanilla beans, a touch of cinnamon, Roanoke Coffee, and shimmering edible gold glitter, this recipe was inspired to end injustices against POC and promote equality in our community. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Ardent Craft Ales 

Curbside pickup and delivery are available at Ardent Craft Ales, along with beer shipping across Virginia and D.C. Ardent partially reopened their beer garden last month, and they’ll be serving food every day as well. Be sure to check out their new policies during Covid-19. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • ATLANTICO — 4.4% ABV Mexican-Style Lager. This summertime crusher is brand-new, and was brewed with flaked corn and rice for a dry, refreshing finish. Light-bodied with minimal bitterness, Ardent says this one is the perfect beer on a hot summer afternoon. 
  • MIXED BERRY GOSE — 4.4% ABV Gose. Brewed with raspberry, blackberry, boysenberry, and black currant, Mixed Berry Gose pours a distinctive purple color with a sweet, jammy flavor to balance the tart acidity of the style. 
  • SPILLMATIC — Collab with Short Throw Brewing and Equilibrium Brewery. 10.1% ABV Triple IPA. Adorned with copious amounts of Strata, Galaxy, and Citra. Dry-hopped with the same varietals. Tangerine, pineapple, mango, and citrus notes dominate the palate and aroma, paired with a smooth, unobtrusive malt bill. 
  • RESTING MY GREATNESS — Short Throw Brewing Co. available at Ardent. 11.8% ABV Imperial Stout with coffee, Vermont maple syrup, and whole vanilla beans. 
  • IMPERIAL STOUT WITH VANILLA & CACAO NIBS — 11% ABV Imperial Stout. Bold, full-bodied beer that pours deep black with a tan head. Rich, chocolatey sweetness complements the roasted malt character for a balanced stout with a smooth finish. 
  • BOHEMIAN PILSNER — 4.8% ABV Czech-Style Pilsner. Brewed with a simple recipe of Czech floor malt, Saaz hops, and a Czech lager yeast. Clear golden color with soft mouthfeel, spicy hop notes, and clean finish.

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Black Heath Meadery

Black Heath Meadery has the patio open for plenty of great outdoor events now, so keep up with them on Facebook for the latest updates — and be sure to wear your mask! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST MEADS 

  • JERRY VANILLA — Sour Cherry mead aged in Reservoir bourbon barrels with vanilla beans and cacao nibs. 
  • BLUE ANGEL — Gold Medal Mazer Cup International award winner. Batch 6 utilizes Jonagold apples and VA wildflower honey. 
  • GINGER — Traditional mead fermented with VA wildflower honey and Casselmonte Farms baby yellow ginger. 
  • MEADSAIC — Traditional mead dry hopped with Mosaic. 
  • SOUR CHERRY — Traditional strength mead fermented with VA wildflower honey, Montmorency and Balaton cherries. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Bryant’s Cider 

The new Bryant’s Cider location in Richmond opened this summer, and we’re stoked to keep up with their latest releases. They’re offering shipping and pickup, so if you want to drink from home, they’ve got you covered! Stay tuned for more info on their latest project, River City Seltzer, which is opening up in September. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST CIDERS 

  • BLUEBERRY LAVENDER AND LIME — A brand-new cider recipe featuring blueberry, lavender, and lime flavors with Crescent Simples. 
  • RED EYE — Coffee collaboration with Recluse Roasting Project. This brut cider is made with a single origin bean from a farm named Cual Bicicleta in Honduras. Bryant’s says, “The coffee is amazing, just like the cider it’s cold brewed in.” 
  • GEMINI — Zodiac series Cider. A blood orange and hibiscus cider made with the air signs in mind. 
  • CANCER — Zodiac series Cider. A blueberry cider with the perfect combination between tart and dry. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Center Of The Universe

Center of the Universe is offering pickup and delivery services, and their Beer Garden is open for business! Be sure to check here before you head out to Ashland, and ensure you’re up-to-date on their new policies to keep everyone safe. 

Pickup: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • OKTOBERFEST — Traditional German Märzen with a clean, light-malty sweetness.  Balanced with a light breadiness and cracker aroma.  
  • PINEAPPLE WHIP — 6.5% ABV Oat-based beer. Brewed in collaboration with Origin Beer Lab, this beer was made with whole Madagascar vanilla beans and pineapple juice. The result is a creamy, full bodied-brew that “takes your taste buds on a tropical escape.”
  • MONKEY’S UNCLE LEMONGRASS TRIPEL — 9% ABV Belgian Tripel. Brewed with local lemongrass, with a light, crisp body and straw color. Fresh lemongrass grown by Village Garden added to the boil for a refreshing treat. 
  • THERE GOSE SUMMER TANGERINE GOSE — German-Style Sour. Brewed with heaps of tangerine and a dash of salt, this slightly tart brew will make the “agony of a diminishing summer” a little less dreadful, and much more flavorful. Available in 4-packs and at the brewery. 
  • CREATIVE JUICES IIIPA — 10% ABV Double IPA. Big, bold, juicy, and gives back! This DIPA is a collaboration with Connor’s Heroes to help celebrate their 10th Annual Heroes Art Ball, which is virtual this year. $5 from every 4-pack will go straight to Connor’s Heroes.
  • BLACKBERRY CRYSTAL COTU — Low calorie, gluten-reduced, fruity and fizzy hard seltzer. Available in 4-packs and at the brewery. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Dragon Run Brewing

Dragon Run Brewing is a charming space located to our east. If you’re looking for a new day trip out of the city, this is your spot — and they’ve got plenty of unique recipes to make it worth your while. With a blend of history behind each brew, Dragon Run brings something fresh to the table with every glass. 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • BORN HERE RASPBERRY LEMONADE SHANDY — 4.4% ABV Raspberry Lemonade Shandy. This one takes the Born Here Pilsner and mixes it with fresh raspberry lemonade for a summertime treat. 
  • BRAXTON’S BITTER — 5.2% ABV English IPA. Named after the local founding father, Carter Braxton, who signed the Declaration of Independence among other things, this English Bitter has a slightly sweet malty taste and then an English Hop bite that is reminiscent of that old English Pub taste. 
  • MARY OF ORANGE — 4.5% ABV Cream Ale. You know William of Orange, but do you know his wife, Mary Of Orange? This beer is brewed for Mary of William and Mary (Or the Queen in King and Queen County). This is a light cream ale that has a subtle taste of both orange and vanilla to remind you of that favorite ice cream treat, perfect for a warm summer day. 
  • TOM’S “COFFEY” STOUT — 6.6% ABV Coffee Stout. This coffee stout is a coffee lover’s dream. Big, bold coffee taste, combined with the malty fullness, and finished with a creamy top provided by the nitro tap. Just like drinking a cold-brew coffee. Named after the brewers’ maternal grandfather, Tom Coffey, who was a legend in his own time, made this beer to be worthy of his namesake. 
  • BLACK CHERRY HARD SELTZER — 4% ABV Hard Seltzer. A hard seltzer for those that want a gluten free option. Touched off with with fresh fruit juices for a refreshing taste. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Final Gravity Brewing Co. 

Final Gravity Brewing Co. is open for pickup and delivery. To-go pours are available for every brew you could dream of: all you need to do is grab a Crowler! The brewery will be hosting food trucks and some new events as well, so be sure to stay safe and wear your mask. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • TANGERINE GOSE — Ancient Mariner and Habanero Mango. 
  • VAPOUR TRAIL HAZY DOUBLE IPA — 8% ABV Hazy Double IPA brewed with Citra and Falconer’s Flight hops. 
  • STEPPING STONE BLONDE ALE — 5% ABV Blonde Ale. 
  • CASSIOPEIA HAZY DOUBLE IPA — This fan favorite is back in the online store, and it’s no wonder it’s been so well-received in its time. Dry-hopped with Cashmere and Mosaic hops, Cassiopeia is full of tropical fruit notes, pineapple forward with a touch of dankness and a smooth finish. 
  • STARDUST HAZY IPA — 6% ABV. Hopped with BRU-1 and Mosaic, Stardust IPA has bright, floral characteristics and a pineapple punch. 
  • RITES OF SPRING GINGER HONEY LAGER — 5.5% ABV. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Fine Creek Brewing Company 

Beer delivery and pickup is available at Fine Creek Brewing Company! Check out their website for a full list of beers available, and below for new brews on tap. With brand-new recipes and old favorites back in stock, there’s something for everyone at the Powhatan farmhouse. 

Some more exciting news from Fine Creek: they’re now Craft Malt Certified. That means they’ve committed to purchasing more than 10 percent of all the malt they use from craft malthouses inside the Craft Maltsters Guild. A note from Fine Creek: “We buy a lot more than 10 percent, and often brew beers that are made with 100 percent locally-sourced malt. This is important not only to the end product of what we produce, but to the very essence of everything we do.” 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • GOLDEN SOUR — Bottled Sour Ale. The barrels layered this beer with notes of mixed berries, red wine, oaky tannins, and vanilla. Golden sour culture brought a bright acidity, along with flavors of lemon and fresh pineapple. This beer combines deeper wine barrel tones with a refreshing tart palate and a dry and tannic finish.
  • GERMAN PILSNER — 4.8% ABV Pilsner. Light Bodied, malt-forward. Floral, grassy, & herbal hop notes. 
  • PROTOSCIENCE IPA — 7.3% ABV IPA. Orange, papaya, and mild grapefruit flavors with a rich, fruity character. 
  • RAYGUN GOTHIC IPA — 7.5% ABV IPA. Pineapple and tropical fruit flavors with a full mouthfeel. 
  • CITRUS HONEY SAISON — Back on tap! The last keg of this beloved brew is coming back this Friday, and it’s only available for a limited time. It goes fast, according to Fine Creek, and it’ll also be available on the next canning run. 
  • VITALISM IPA — Hazy IPA. This new release was dry-hopped with Kohatu and Mosaic hops, combining for a sweet aroma of bright tropical fruit, with notes of freshly cut papaya and pineapple. Earlier additions of Idaho 7 and German Amarillo hops contribute more to the flavor, which features fruity tones alongside black tea, citrus zest, and a mild floral note. Vitalism has a medium body and a round mouthfeel that is paired with enough bitterness to avoid feeling too rich. 
  • AMERICAN STOUT — 7% ABV. The latest batch comes from English Pale malts from Murphy & Rude Malting Co. in Charlottesville, and with a nutty and sweet backbone, this one was layered in Toasted Oats and Crystal Wheat to build up a sweeter tone of whole grain cereal and baked goods. Toasty notes of black coffee and baker’s chocolate, medium body balanced by a subtle hop flavor. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Garden Grove Brewing & Urban Winery 

Garden Grove is offering curbside pickup, carry-out orders, and same-day delivery! Masks are required to visit their taproom, and they’ve been offering some great new brews to get us through the insanity that is the summer of 2020. We don’t know where we’d be without local beer through all of this! Check below for fresh releases and more updates. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • TYPHOON PASSION FRUIT AND MANGO HONEY WINE — 7% ABV Honey Wine. Sweet tropical aromas of passion fruit and mango swing together. “Bursting with big, bold flavors wave after wave.” 
  • MADELINE SAISON — 6.5% ABV Saison. Notes of classic banana and spice. Soft bodied, with flavors of tropical fruit, white pepper and rye.
  • ARASSAS KOLSCH — 4.8% ABV German-Style Kolsch. 
  • DEATH — 10% ABV Belgian. Brings out as much ripe and dark fruit flavors reminiscent of rich red wines as possible, by fermenting with red wine grapes from each year’s harvest. Death is made once a year in tandem with the Virginia wine grape harvest schedule. 
  • CARTOON VILLAIN IPA — 7% ABV IPA. Tropical and juicy. 
  • MOZU — 8% Peach Yuzu Honey Wine. Flavors and color from White and Blood Peaches, balanced by bright and shiny Yuzu. “Confuse your palate” with this brew that’s both sweet and dry. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Hardywood Park Craft Brewery 

Hardywood Richmond and West Creek locations are open! And just look at that awesome setup above at West Creek. The outdoor spaces have been rearranged to allow for proper social distancing, and all us Hardywood fans can now visit them again safely. If you’d rather drink from home, online ordering is still available with all of Hardywood’s best. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • RICHMOND LAGER LIME — Richmond Lager Lime still has the same local ingredients we love, including Virginia-grown malt and hops. Real lime juice takes this beer to the next level. 
  • DREAMLIKE — Malted Wheat and Flaked Oats round out this dreamy New England Style IPA using Galaxy, Azzaca, Falconers Flight and Cascade hops in both Whirlpool and Dry Hopping on this iteration. 
  • CUVEE PEACH — Peach Tripel matured in freshly-dumped white wine barrels to allow for a true depth of flavor to develop. The result is a beautifully complex beer with stone fruit esters and juicy peach undertones, complemented by a pleasantly dry finish. 
  • STRAIGHT TALK VOL. I & VOL. II — The Straight Talk Series are a “single barrel & single beer experience.” Vol. I is an Imperial Milk Stout, perfectly balanced with notes of silky chocolate and toffee, plus vanilla and smooth dark caramel from its bourbon barrel. Vol. II is a Saison aged in Red Wine Barrels for 11 months. 
  • RICHMOND DARK LAGER — The same refreshing and crisp experience of its original recipe, with an ever-so-slight sweet dark malt characteristic. Although visually darker then its golden bubbly brother, Richmond Dark Lager does not have the roasty characteristics you might usually find in a beer this color. 
  • PEACH TRIPEL — A bright, effervescent tripel with a balance of white pepper and honeysuckle. Refermented on apricots and heaps of yellow peaches for a stone fruit taste and dry finish. 
  • NONE OF THIS MAKES SENSE — Double IPA. New England Style, brewed with Mosaic and El Dorado hops. 
  • SUNCRUSH — Summer’s favorite hard seltzer. Check Hardywood’s ordering site for available flavors! 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Intermission Beer Company 

Intermission is open! These brewers have taken it to the next level this summer with beer slushies (and yes, it’s as good as it sounds). A recent favorite is their Abbey Colada, which adds Piña Colada mix to the Abbey Ale for a tropical banana, coconut, and pineapple delight. Masks are required to enter. Taproom and patio seating are available, and no pets during this time. It’s first-come, first-serve, and it’ll be closed for seating once they reach capacity. Always remember to wear your mask and keep folks safe! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • BEER SLUSHIES! — Check Facebook every Friday to see the weekend’s flavor. 
  • HATHOR GOSE — 4.6% ABV. Bright pink Sour Ale in collaboration with the local RVA chapter of the Pink Boots Society and Stone Brewing Co. Raspberry puree and pink Himalayan sea salt add bold berry flavor and a neon pink color, together with subtle citrus and light hoppy character. 
  • GHOST LIGHT LAGER — 5% ABV. Light and crisp American Lager. Gluten Reduced.
  • STRAWBERRY BLONDE — 5.7% ABV. American Pale Wheat beer. Light body, low bitterness and of course: Strawberries!
  • HONEY HIBISCUS SAISON — 5.9% ABV. Farmhouse Saison Ale. Light bodied slightly tart with a dry finish. Uniquely refreshing with notes of fresh honey and a lovely pink hue. 
  • OVATION HARD SELTZERS — Raspberry and Orange flavors available. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Isley Brewing Company 

To-go brews are available at Isley Brewing Company! Indoor and outdoor seating is available, and dogs are welcome if they’re leashed. Be sure to ask about the latest Ice-sley slushie flavors, because these brewers have something fresh every week. No reservations required, and be sure to wear your mask! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • ICE-SLEY SLUSHIES — Check in every week for fresh new slushie flavors! Bahama Mama IPA is a recent favorite. 
  • I’LL BEE BOCK — 8% ABV. Single / Traditional Bock. Hopped exclusively with Czech Saaz hops, and finished with a clean German lager yeast, the beer pours a light copper, with a thick, creamy head. 
  • SUNBURNT COUNTRY IPA — 8.5% IPA. A Hazy DIPA, brewed exclusively with varietals grown only in the Southern Hemisphere. The beer pours a cloudy yellow, with a soft, pillowy foam.
  • TEA-RIFFIC — 6% ABV Amber Ale. Growing up, summer in the South meant… Sweet Tea! They’ve brewed a malty Amber Ale, infused it with heaps of Black Tea, and sweetened it right up with approximately 100 percent of pure cane sugar. 
  • SET SAIL — 6% ABV Hopped Lemon Pale Ale. Brewed with late additions of Mandarina Bavaria and Citra hop varietals, and lemon and orange zest, the wheat and barley blended base is a perfect vessel to let the fresh, citrus flavors really shine. 
  • OFF THE BOULEVARD — 5% Irish Red Ale. Balanced, easy-drinking traditional Irish Red Ale. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery 

Multi-state shipping and drive through pickup available! The taproom is also open, and with plenty of awesome outdoor seating, the farm at Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery is one you don’t want to miss. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — 10% ABV Imperial Dessert Stout. This one is for the true stout lovers out there. Lickinghole Creek took the Black Is Beautiful recipe from Weathered Souls Brewing, and tried to keep it as true to the original as possible. “We wanted this beer to showcase the masterfully roasted and caramel malt graciously donated from Murphy and Rude Malting out of Charlottesville, VA. We get huge notes of deeply roasted coffee, rich cacao, creamy vanilla, and caramel toffee.” All proceeds will go to organizations in pursuit of ending racial and social injustice everywhere. 
  • JUICY #22 — 7.5% ABV. Juicy 22 is layered with orange zest, orange juice, and with a soft kiss of vanilla. Juicy 22 showcases the wonderful hop LOTUS. (This is a personal favorite of mine, so I definitely encourage you to try it!) 
  • NUCLEAR NUGGET IMPERIAL HONEY IPA — 10.5% ABV. While it’s not brand-new, it’s worth noting as a fan favorite. This hop bomb is a lot of things. One thing it is not, is subtle. Nuclear Nugget explodes the nose with notes of citrus, flowers, and Centennial hops, then the nuclear fallout is accompanied by local clover honey, to bring everybody back to safety. 
  • GOOCHLAND QUADRUPEL ALE — 11.2% ABV. Tasting notes of raisin, plum, prune, and currants. Easily drinkable, complex, and refreshing. 
  • BEAR BAIT BERLINER WEISSE WITH BLACKBERRIES — 4% ABV. Blended with Blackberries to create a tart, crisp, fruity, and beautifully hued-libation. 
  • WATERMELON GOSE — 5% ABV. Traditional German-style wheat ale. Expect a light and crisp beer with notes of sour, salt, and juicy watermelon on your taste buds.

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Starr Hill Richmond Beer Hall & Rooftop 

Starr Hill RVA is also keeping things safe, with to-go beer sales taking place during abbreviated business hours. All of their year-round beers will be available, in addition to some special favorites from the brewery. 

Pickup: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • HEY BUDDY — The latest pilot batch from right here in Richmond. This beer is dedicated to Starr Hill’s buddy, Dio, who’s been a member of the crew for over 10 years. This golden brew lagered in our tanks for over five months, for a crisp and refreshing finish. 
  • FESTIE — Oktoberfest Lager. This recipe is rich, malty, and perfectly refreshing for the season. 
  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — Starr Hill’s recipe of the Weathered Souls Brewing initiative. This hopped-up stout was brewed with Chinook, Citra, Centennial and Falconer’s Flight. 100 percent of the proceeds go to the Equal Justice Initiative! 
  • DOUBLE PLATINUM IMPERIAL IPA — 8.6% ABV Imperial IPA. Brand-new Imperial IPA from Starr Hill, limited edition! 
  • KING KUNU PINEAPPLE IPA — Pineapple IPA. 4-packs available from the brewery. 
  • SAY IT AIN’T SOUR — 12-pack that brings together all the best Starr Hill Gose brews. Pixie Pineapple Gose, Carly Cucumber Gose, Carole Cran-Raspberry Gose and Lola Guava Gose. 
  • RECEIVER RED IPA — Another brand-new recipe from Starr Hill in a Double Dry-Hopped Red IPA. 
  • SUBLIME CITRUS WIT — Witbier. New recipe with a fresh lime zest. Citrus, wheat, and spice meld together to create the perfect summer beverage. 
  • CARLY CUCUMBER GOSE — 6-pack of the new Gose recipe. 
  • CAROLE CRAN-RASPBERRY GOSE — A cranberry-raspberry infusion in 6-packs available at Starr Hill. 
  • PIXIE PINEAPPLE GOSE — Another fresh recipe available in 6-packs. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Stone Brewing Richmond 

Stone Brewing Richmond is open for pick-up! This awesome East End brewery has had some delicious releases lately, and they’ve got brews ready at the door if you plan to take them home. The patio is open as well, so mask up and head out for some great new releases. 

Pickup: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • FEATURES & BENEFITS — 4% ABV IPA. This new recipe is Stone’s low-calorie IPA, a trend we’ve been seeing more of this summer (and loving it!) Gluten-reduced, hop forward flavor with 95 calories. 
  • STONE BUENAVEZA SALT & LIME LAGER — 4.7% ABV Lager. This one has been a favorite this summer, so grab one while you can! 
  • ENTER NIGHT PILSNER — 5.7% ABV Pilsner. German-style pilsner with low bitterness and bright tastes. 
  • STONE RIPPER ALE — 5.7% ABV West-Coast style Pale Ale. 
  • 24 CARROT GOLDEN ALE — Belgian-Style Ale. Carrot cake-inspired recipe between Stone, Juli Goldenberg, and Monkeypaw. 
  • RUINED AGAIN TRIPLE IPA — 10.8% ABV Triple IPA. Available in Crowlers to-go and at the brewery. This one’s coming out officially on August 10! 
  • NOTORIOUS P.O.G — 4.7% ABV Berliner Weisse. Tart, tropical, and “damn tasty.” 
  • STONE TIKI ESCAPE — 7.7% ABV IPA. Tropical, fruit-forward IPA brewed with Sabro and Mosaic hops. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Strangeways Brewing 

All three Strangeways Brewing tasting rooms are open for delivery, curbside pick-up, and to-go orders! They’re also open for draft brews, and wear your mask when visiting in-person. Be sure to check their website for updates. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • SINEWY — 8% ABV Strong Saison. A fan favorite for years, Sinewy is basically an imperial farmhouse ale, made with Vienna, White Wheat, and Belgian Aromatic Malts then generously hopped Sorachi Ace. Fermented very dry producing a crushable farmhouse ale with notes of honey, green peppercorn, earth, and freshly cut hay. 
  • I KNOW WIT YOU DID LAST SUMMER — 5.4% ABV Sour Witbier. Combines the spice of a traditional Belgian wit, with the mellow tart of German sour wheat ale. A subtle citrus characteristic sticks around from nose to aftertaste, briefly replacing mid-taste with a light peppery sweet tart. 
  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — Imperial Stout. Highlights intense roast character with moderate sweetness and subtle booze on the nose. 100 percent of proceeds benefit Girls for a Change. 
  • SHIMMER & SHAKE — Spiked Sparkling Seltzer. Lemon-lime flavors, with a light, crisp, and effervescent taste for summertime. 
  • AFM WILD ALE — Farmhouse Saison. 2-row, Vienna, and Wheat Malts. Heavily hopped with Columbus in the brewhouse, then aged 22 months in French Oak barrels. Strong, but drinkable, with a balance between hops and funk. 
  • FULL STACK LUMBERJACK — Stout. Dark, rich and luscious. Conditioned with pure Wisconsin Little Man maple syrup and thick-cut Smithfield maple flavored bacon. 
  • GNAR SHREDDER — Double IPA. Soft and pillowy with light sweetness. Intensely fruity from big additions of Vic Secret and Cashmere hops giving notes of passionfruit, peach, pear, and rock candy. Double dry-hopped. 
  • LEGALIZE IT — Small Axe West Coast-Style IPA in honor of the recent decriminalization of marijuana in Virginia. 
  • LUCKY CHARMS BERLINER WEISSE — Cloudy, sour wheat beer. Dry, fruity funk with a sharp tartness. 
  • SEA SPRITZ — Cranberry Berliner Weisse. 
  • WAKE ME UP BEFORE YOU GOSE — Lighthearted Germanic Sour. Lemony tartness alongside Sicilian sea salt, coriander, and ginger to “put the boom-boom into your heart.” 
  • WHAT THE ASTRONAUTS DRINK — Sour Berliner Weisse. Infused with orange flavored drink mix for a familiar tangy flavor. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Three Notch’d RVA Collab House

Three Notch’d RVA Collab House is open for business, and they just welcomed a new Head Brewer in August: Bobby Faithful. With a wealth of professional brewing experience (including being the director of the brewing program at University of Richmond), Bobby’s got plenty of new recipes to cook up for the River City. Between pickup and delivery services, in addition to a great patio, Three Notch’d RVA is bringing lots of fresh tastes into this summer. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • BROADCAST BREW COFFEE BROWN ALE — Inspired by the flavors of a morning cup o’ joe, this craft creation uses a special blend of beans from Rostov’s Coffee & Tea. Notes of caramel and chocolate make this a delicious breakfast beer. 
  • NEPHOLOGY LOTUS — 7.8% ABV. the newest development of the HopSteiner’s Hop Breeding Program. A descendant of Cascade Eastern Gold and Apollo, look for flavors and aroma of orange, vanilla, and tropical fruit. 
  • BARREL-AGED BERRY SOUR — 6.4% ABV Sour. A wine barrel-aged sour ale brewed with blackberries and raspberries, straight from the Three Notch’d Sour House collection. 
  • SULTANA OF SWING — 7.5% ABV New England IPA. Bursting with bright, citrusy orange, resinous pine, and ripe pineapple flavors. Heavy handled dry-hopping with Sultana and Amarillo hops give this brew a big fruity and citrusy aroma, and a flavor to match. 
  • BLACK CHERRY HARD SELTZER — Hard Seltzer. Low sugar, low carb, and only 100 calories for the days you’re craving something lighter. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Triple Crossing Beer

Triple Crossing Beer has to-go and delivery options available, and can shipping is another option as well. Visit their patio for some outdoor time in the East End, and wear your mask! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • BUTTERCUP GRISETTE — 4.5% ABV. Open-fermented Grisette comprised of pilsner malt, spelt, red wheat and flaked barley. 
  • FALCON SMASH IPA — Flagship IPA. Dank hop character from Falconer’s Flight dry-hop process. 
  • PARANOID — 5% ABV Pale Ale. Mango, sweet apricot, and floral grapefruit orange. Built for summer!
  • FOEDER I  — 5% ABV Golden Ale. Candied pineapple, fresh pomelo, light notes of dill and sweet honey with a restrained acidity and dry finish.
  • SIMCOE TRIANGLES — Bright pink grapefruit, pulpy-melon, and citrus flavors. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Väsen Brewing Company

Väsen is open for pickup and delivery! Outdoor seating is available, so please wear your mask and keep folks safe. They’ve recently released a great array of fresh new brews, and we can’t wait to grab a glass of every one! Kegs are also available to take home. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • EVERYTHING FLOATS ON GUAVA AND PASSION FRUIT — Bold, dry-hopped sour… and all of it floats on a fruity foundation of real guava and passion fruit. Along with the tropical flavors dominating this tart brew, you’ll also find subtle citrus aromas and pleasant floral character from a light addition of citra hops. 
  • Gård — Wild sour ale with a bright, tropical character. 
  • FEASTA — 8% ABV Hazy DIPA. Brewed with Nelson Sauvin, Citra, and Vic Secret Hops. 
  • NEOMEXICANUS — 8% ABV Hazy DIPA. Brewed with Sabro, El Dorado, and Azacca hops.
  • APRICOT SOUR — 7% ABV Sour Ale. Brewed with apricot for a summery, fruity flavor. 
  • MIERKA — 6% ABV Farmhouse Brett Saison. Dry-hopped with Citra and Amarillo hops. 
  • FREYJA — 6% ABV Hazy IPA. Brewed with Mosaic, Rakau, and the 2019 Pink Boots Hop Blend. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

The Veil Brewing Co. 

The Veil Brewing Co. is hosting outdoor to-go sales from both locations. They’ve also got shipping available to select states, and they’re currently open for curbside pickup only. Patio lovers, stay tuned for openings in the future! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • GOOD MORNING, ANXIETY — 8.5% ABV. DIPA brewed with milk sugar, Citra, Nelson, Motueka, and Vic Secret. A creamy texture with drippy flavors of mango, wine coolers, and a bowl of tropical fruit.
  • STEP STEP DAD DAD — 8% ABV. Mosaic Double Dry- hopped Double IPA. Saturated impressions of blueberry, papaya, cantaloupe, and bubble gum. 
  • 25 HRS — 6% ABV. IPA brewed with Citra, Enigma, BRU-1, Galaxy, and Motueka. Exceptionally soft and well-rounded. Juicy and full flavors of green tropical fruit, lime zest, and gummy bears. 
  • NEVER NEVER CALM CALM — 5.1% ABV Gose with the awesome fruit combo of double passion fruit and double pineapple. Tasty vibes of canned fruit cups, peach skin, and obviously tons of passion fruit and pineapple. 
  • HOLLOW PLACE 500ML BOTTLE — 10.5% ABV. Hollow Place: Vanilla Walnut is a new Imperial Stout conditioned on piles of crushed walnuts and freshly split Madagascar vanilla beans. Awesome oily flavors of rich vanilla cake, walnut fudge, and candy bars. 
  • REDREDMIATAMIATA — 6% ABV. Luxuriously soft Double Dry-hopped IPA with the freshest crops of Galaxy and Mosaic. Fun impressions of berries, musky tropical fruit, clean citrus, and rose.
  • MERCILESS MERCILESS — 8% ABV. Double Dry-hopped DIPA brewed with raw wheat, malted wheat, oats, and piles of fresh Citra, Galaxy, Simcoe, and Vic Secret. Tastes like “You stuffed too many gushers in your mouth, grape flavored Big League Chew gum, and sweet tangerine slices.” 
  • PURPLEBUGATTI — 11% ABV. Triple IPA with the freshest Galaxy and Vic Secret available to The Veil. An exemplary Australian-hopped Triple IPA.  Awesome pungent notes of tropical fruit gummies, wine grapes, and pine. 
  • VEIN — 4.5% ABV. Pilsner step-mashed with floor-malted barley and hopped with Saaz and Tettnang. Crispy, hoppy, and thirst-quenching.
  • LOVELY — 5.2% ABV. Lovely is a blend of a Farmhouse-inspired Pale Ale and a 100% wheat Farmhouse-inspired ale. Both beers were barrel fermented, inoculated with our house culture, and aged in French oak red wine barrels for 12 months.
  • ERODE — 6.1% ABV. Farmhouse-inspired Ale brewed with pilsner malt, spelt, and some flaked rye, then hopped throughout the entire process with whole leaf Hallertau, Tettnang, and Cascade alongside pellets of Citra, Hallertau Blanc, and a bit of Lemondrop. Impressions of spritzy orange citrus soda, clean minerality, round hoppiness. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

That’s it for this week’s RVA On Tap! As your weekly columnist, I’m here to take all your beer releases, event info, ideas and questions. If you’re a brewer, send me your release info at [email protected], and if you’re a beer enthusiast, drop me a line anytime to talk booze. Catch y’all next week! 

RVA ON TAP: Summer Brews in the River City

Caley Sturgill | August 5, 2020

Topics: Ardent craft ales, bars richmond va, beer, beer column, bryants cider, Center Of The Universe Brewing, craft beer richmond va, craft beer RVA, Final Gravity, Fine Creek Brewing Company, garden grove, happy hour richmond va, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, Intermission Beer Company, Isley Brewing Company, Lickinghole Creek, RVA On Tap, Starr Hill, Stone brewing, strangeways, the answer brewpub, The Veil Brewing Co., triple crossing, Vasen Brewing Company

What’s happening, craft beer lovers of RVA?! Welcome to this week’s RVA On Tap, RVA Magazine’s weekly column for all the Booze News your hearts desire. 

As the River City slowly transitions into a new normal during the pandemic, we’re highlighting Richmond’s brewers. From in-person outdoor events to take-home and delivery beers, let’s support our local businesses together — and stay safe in the process. 

We’ll be bringing you fresh news in the beer world with guidelines on safety. If you’re planning to venture out during the pandemic, your RVA Magazine team wants to stress the importance of wearing your mask. As we all support our favorite brewers, let’s also support the community together by taking precautions to ensure everyone stays healthy. 

We’ve got locals like The Answer Brewpub, Ardent Craft Ales, Bryant’s Cider, Center of the Universe Brewing, Final Gravity, Fine Creek Brewing Company, Garden Grove, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, Intermission Beer Company, Isley Brewing Company, Lickinghole Creek, Starr Hill, Stone Brewing, Strangeways, Triple Crossing, Väsen Brewing Company, The Veil Brewing Co. and more.

Drink up, Virginia! 

BREWERS: If your outdoor spaces are opening at a safely-limited capacity, please email [email protected] with updates.

The Answer Brewpub 

At The Answer Brewpub, fresh brews are here to cool down these hot summer days. 

Takeout is available, and you’ll want to keep up with The Answer on Facebook to see updates on pre-sales for their latest recipes. This week, we’ve got a brand-new beer available, along with a few special releases from the summer. 

Pickup: To-go locations and info updated regularly on Instagram. 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • HARD TO GET A TICKET — 100% Mosaic DIPA ready in a fresh batch. Described as a “tropical fruit bowl,” the Double IPA is available in 4-packs. 
  • SUMMER SHOWERS — 6.5% ABV Citrus IPA. Ready to carry you through clear skies or summer rains, this pillowy-soft IPA is available in 4-packs. 
  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — 10% ABV Imperial Stout. This glittering brew came as a collaboration for the Black Is Beautiful equality and inclusion campaign, and all proceeds go to the Sister Fund RVA and Campaign Zero. With maple syrup, New Guinea vanilla beans, a touch of cinnamon, Roanoke Coffee, and shimmering edible gold glitter, this recipe was inspired to end injustices against POC and promote equality in our community. 
  • HOPTONE — Double dry-hopped with Wai-iti hops for the perfect balance between “tropical fruit bowl” and “crispy boy” energy. This latest addition to the Hoptone series at The Answer came out in July, and it’s ready to refresh these hot summer days. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Ardent Craft Ales 

Curbside pickup and delivery are available at Ardent Craft Ales, along with beer shipping across Virginia and D.C. Ardent partially reopened their beer garden last month, and they’ll be serving food every day as well. Be sure to check out their new policies during Covid-19. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • ATLANTICO — 4.4% ABV Mexican-Style Lager. This summertime crusher is brand-new, and was brewed with flaked corn and rice for a dry, refreshing finish. Light-bodied with minimal bitterness, Ardent says this one is the perfect beer on a hot summer afternoon. 
  • RESTING MY GREATNESS — Short Throw Brewing Co. available at Ardent. 11.8% ABV Imperial Stout with coffee, Vermont maple syrup, and whole vanilla beans. 
  • IMPERIAL STOUT WITH VANILLA & CACAO NIBS — 11% ABV Imperial Stout. Bold, full-bodied beer that pours deep black with a tan head. Rich, chocolatey sweetness complements the roasted malt character for a balanced stout with a smooth finish. 
  • BOHEMIAN PILSNER — 4.8% ABV Czech-Style Pilsner. Brewed with a simple recipe of Czech floor malt, Saaz hops, and a Czech lager yeast. Clear golden color with soft mouthfeel, spicy hop notes, and clean finish.

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Bryant’s Cider 

The new Bryant’s Cider location in Richmond opened this summer, and we’re stoked to keep up with their latest releases. They’re offering shipping and pickup, so if you want to drink from home, they’ve got you covered! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST CIDERS 

  • BLUEBERRY LAVENDER AND LIME — A brand-new cider recipe featuring blueberry, lavender, and lime flavors with Crescent Simples. 
  • RED EYE — Coffee collaboration with Recluse Roasting Project. This brut cider is made with a single origin bean from a farm named Cual Bicicleta in Honduras. Bryant’s says, “The coffee is amazing, just like the cider it’s cold brewed in.” 
  • GEMINI — Zodiac series Cider. A blood orange and hibiscus cider made with the air signs in mind. 
  • CANCER — Zodiac series Cider. A blueberry cider with the perfect combination between tart and dry. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Center Of The Universe 

Center of the Universe is offering pickup and delivery services, and their Beer Garden is open for business! Be sure to check here before you head out to Ashland, and ensure you’re up-to-date on their new policies to keep everyone safe. 

Pickup: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • PINEAPPLE WHIP — 6.5% ABV Oat-based beer. Brewed in collaboration with Origin Beer Lab, this beer was made with whole Madagascar vanilla beans and pineapple juice. The result is a creamy, full bodied-brew that “takes your taste buds on a tropical escape.”
  • MONKEY’S UNCLE LEMONGRASS TRIPEL — 9% ABV Belgian Tripel. Brewed with local lemongrass, with a light, crisp body and straw color. Fresh lemongrass grown by Village Garden added to the boil for a refreshing treat. 
  • THERE GOSE SUMMER TANGERINE GOSE — German-Style Sour. Brewed with heaps of tangerine and a dash of salt, this slightly tart brew will make the “agony of a diminishing summer” a little less dreadful, and much more flavorful. Available in 4-packs and at the brewery. 
  • CREATIVE JUICES IIIPA — 10% ABV Double IPA. Big, bold, juicy, and gives back! This DIPA is a collaboration with Connor’s Heroes to help celebrate their 10th Annual Heroes Art Ball, which is virtual this year. $5 from every 4-pack will go straight to Connor’s Heroes.
  • BLACKBERRY CRYSTAL COTU — Low calorie, gluten-reduced, fruity and fizzy hard seltzer. Available in 4-packs and at the brewery. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Final Gravity Brewing Co. 

Final Gravity Brewing Co. is open for pickup and delivery. To-go pours are available for every brew you could dream of: all you need to do is grab a Crowler! The brewery will be hosting food trucks and some new events as well, so be sure to stay safe and wear your mask. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • CASSIOPEIA HAZY DOUBLE IPA — This fan favorite is back in the online store, and it’s no wonder it’s been so well-received in its time. Dry-hopped with Cashmere and Mosaic hops, Cassiopeia is full of tropical fruit notes, pineapple forward with a touch of dankness and a smooth finish. 
  • STARDUST HAZY IPA — 6% ABV. Hopped with BRU-1 and Mosaic, Stardust IPA has bright, floral characteristics and a pineapple punch. 
  • RITES OF SPRING GINGER HONEY LAGER — 5.5% ABV. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Fine Creek Brewing Company 

Beer delivery and pickup is available at Fine Creek Brewing Company! Check out their website for a full list of beers available, and below for new brews on tap. With brand-new recipes and old favorites back in stock, there’s something for everyone at the Powhatan farmhouse. 

Some more exciting news from Fine Creek: they’re now Craft Malt Certified. That means they’ve committed to purchasing more than 10 percent of all the malt they use from craft malthouses inside the Craft Maltsters Guild. A note from Fine Creek: “We buy a lot more than 10 percent, and often brew beers that are made with 100 percent locally-sourced malt. This is important not only to the end product of what we produce, but to the very essence of everything we do.” 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • CITRUS HONEY SAISON — Back on tap! The last keg of this beloved brew is coming back this Friday, and it’s only available for a limited time. It goes fast, according to Fine Creek, and it’ll also be available on the next canning run. 
  • VITALISM IPA — Hazy IPA. This new release was dry-hopped with Kohatu and Mosaic hops, combining for a sweet aroma of bright tropical fruit, with notes of freshly cut papaya and pineapple. Earlier additions of Idaho 7 and German Amarillo hops contribute more to the flavor, which features fruity tones alongside black tea, citrus zest, and a mild floral note. Vitalism has a medium body and a round mouthfeel that is paired with enough bitterness to avoid feeling too rich. 
  • AMERICAN STOUT — 7% ABV. The latest batch comes from English Pale malts from Murphy & Rude Malting Co. in Charlottesville, and with a nutty and sweet backbone, this one was layered in Toasted Oats and Crystal Wheat to build up a sweeter tone of whole grain cereal and baked goods. Toasty notes of black coffee and baker’s chocolate, medium body balanced by a subtle hop flavor. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Garden Grove Brewing & Urban Winery 

Garden Grove is offering curbside pickup, carry-out orders, and same-day delivery! Masks are required to visit their taproom, and they’ve been offering some great new brews to get us through the insanity that is the summer of 2020. We don’t know where we’d be without local beer through all of this! Check below for fresh releases and more updates. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • TYPHOON PASSION FRUIT AND MANGO HONEY WINE — 7% ABV Honey Wine. Sweet tropical aromas of passion fruit and mango swing together. “Bursting with big, bold flavors wave after wave.” 
  • CARTOON VILLAIN IPA — 7% ABV IPA. Tropical and juicy. 
  • MOZU — 8% Peach Yuzu Honey Wine. Flavors and color from White and Blood Peaches, balanced by bright and shiny Yuzu. “Confuse your palate” with this brew that’s both sweet and dry. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website

Hardywood Park Craft Brewery 

Hardywood Richmond and West Creek locations are open! And just look at that awesome setup above at West Creek. The outdoor spaces have been rearranged to allow for proper social distancing, and all us Hardywood fans can now visit them again safely. If you’d rather drink from home, online ordering is still available with all of Hardywood’s best. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • STRAIGHT TALK VOL. I & VOL. II — The Straight Talk Series are a “single barrel & single beer experience.” Vol. I is an Imperial Milk Stout, perfectly balanced with notes of silky chocolate and toffee, plus vanilla and smooth dark caramel from its bourbon barrel. Vol. II is a Saison aged in Red Wine Barrels for 11 months. 
  • RICHMOND DARK LAGER — The same refreshing and crisp experience of its original recipe, with an ever-so-slight sweet dark malt characteristic. Although visually darker then its golden bubbly brother, Richmond Dark Lager does not have the roasty characteristics you might usually find in a beer this color. 
  • PEACH TRIPEL — A bright, effervescent tripel with a balance of white pepper and honeysuckle. Refermented on apricots and heaps of yellow peaches for a stone fruit taste and dry finish. 
  • NONE OF THIS MAKES SENSE — Double IPA. New England Style, brewed with Mosaic and El Dorado hops. 
  • SUNCRUSH — Summer’s favorite hard seltzer. Check Hardywood’s ordering site for available flavors! 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Intermission Beer Company 

Intermission is open! Masks are required to enter. Taproom and patio seating are available, and no pets during this time. It’s first-come, first-serve, and it’ll be closed for seating once they reach capacity. Always remember to wear your mask and keep folks safe!

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • BEER SLUSHIES! — Check Facebook every Friday to see the weekend’s flavor. 
  • HATHOR GOSE — 4.6% ABV. Bright pink Sour Ale in collaboration with the local RVA chapter of the Pink Boots Society and Stone Brewing Co. Raspberry puree and pink Himalayan sea salt add bold berry flavor and a neon pink color, together with subtle citrus and light hoppy character. 
  • GHOST LIGHT LAGER — 5% ABV. Light and crisp American Lager. Gluten Reduced.
  • STRAWBERRY BLONDE — 5.7% ABV. American Pale Wheat beer. Light body, low bitterness and of course: Strawberries!
  • HONEY HIBISCUS SAISON — 5.9% ABV. Farmhouse Saison Ale. Light bodied slightly tart with a dry finish. Uniquely refreshing with notes of fresh honey and a lovely pink hue. 
  • OVATION HARD SELTZERS — Raspberry and Orange flavors available. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Isley Brewing Company 

To-go brews are available at Isley Brewing Company! Indoor and outdoor seating is available, and dogs are welcome if they’re leashed. No reservations required, and be sure to wear your mask! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • I’LL BEE BOCK — 8% ABV. Single / Traditional Bock. Hopped exclusively with Czech Saaz hops, and finished with a clean German lager yeast, the beer pours a light copper, with a thick, creamy head. 
  • SUNBURNT COUNTRY IPA — 8.5% IPA. A Hazy DIPA, brewed exclusively with varietals grown only in the Southern Hemisphere. The beer pours a cloudy yellow, with a soft, pillowy foam.
  • TEA-RIFFIC — 6% ABV Amber Ale. Growing up, summer in the South meant… Sweet Tea! They’ve brewed a malty Amber Ale, infused it with heaps of Black Tea, and sweetened it right up with approximately 100 percent of pure cane sugar. 
  • SET SAIL — 6% ABV Hopped Lemon Pale Ale. Brewed with late additions of Mandarina Bavaria and Citra hop varietals, and lemon and orange zest, the wheat and barley blended base is a perfect vessel to let the fresh, citrus flavors really shine. 
  • OFF THE BOULEVARD — 5% Irish Red Ale. Balanced, easy-drinking traditional Irish Red Ale. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery 

Multi-state shipping and drive through pickup available! The taproom is also open, and with plenty of awesome outdoor seating, the farm at Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery is one you don’t want to miss. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • JUICY #22 — 7.5% ABV. Juicy 22 is layered with orange zest, orange juice, and with a soft kiss of vanilla. Juicy 22 showcases the wonderful hop LOTUS. (This is a personal favorite of mine, so I definitely encourage you to try it!) 
  • NUCLEAR NUGGET IMPERIAL HONEY IPA — 10.5% ABV. While it’s not brand-new, it’s worth noting as a fan favorite. This hop bomb is a lot of things. One thing it is not, is subtle. Nuclear Nugget explodes the nose with notes of citrus, flowers, and Centennial hops, then the nuclear fallout is accompanied by local clover honey, to bring everybody back to safety. 
  • GOOCHLAND QUADRUPEL ALE — 11.2% ABV. Tasting notes of raisin, plum, prune, and currants. Easily drinkable, complex, and refreshing. 
  • BEAR BAIT BERLINER WEISSE WITH BLACKBERRIES — 4% ABV. Blended with Blackberries to create a tart, crisp, fruity, and beautifully hued-libation. 
  • WATERMELON GOSE — 5% ABV. Traditional German-style wheat ale. Expect a light and crisp beer with notes of sour, salt, and juicy watermelon on your taste buds.

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Starr Hill Richmond Beer Hall & Rooftop 

Starr Hill RVA is also keeping things safe, with to-go beer sales taking place during abbreviated business hours. All of their year-round beers will be available, in addition to some special favorites from the brewery. 

Pickup: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • KING KUNU PINEAPPLE IPA — Pineapple IPA. 4-packs available from the brewery. 
  • SAY IT AIN’T SOUR — 12-pack that brings together all the best Starr Hill Gose brews. Pixie Pineapple Gose, Carly Cucumber Gose, Carole Cran-Raspberry Gose and Lola Guava Gose. 
  • DOUBLE PLATINUM IPA — 8.6% ABV Imperial IPA. Brand-new Imperial IPA from Starr Hill, limited edition! 
  • RECEIVER RED IPA — Another brand-new recipe from Starr Hill in a Double Dry-Hopped Red IPA. 
  • SUBLIME CITRUS WIT — Witbier. New recipe with a fresh lime zest. Citrus, wheat, and spice meld together to create the perfect summer beverage. 
  • CARLY CUCUMBER GOSE — 6-pack of the new Gose recipe. 
  • CAROLE CRAN-RASPBERRY GOSE — A cranberry-raspberry infusion in 6-packs available at Starr Hill. 
  • PIXIE PINEAPPLE GOSE — Another fresh recipe available in 6-packs. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Stone Brewing Richmond 

Stone Brewing Richmond is open for pick-up! This awesome East End brewery has had some delicious releases lately, and they’ve got brews ready at the door if you plan to take them home. The patio is open as well, so mask up and head out for some great new releases. 

Pickup: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • 24 CARROT GOLDEN ALE — Belgian-Style Ale. Carrot cake-inspired recipe between Stone, Juli Goldenberg, and Monkeypaw. 
  • RUINED AGAIN TRIPLE IPA — 10.8% ABV Triple IPA. Available in Crowlers to-go and at the brewery. This one’s coming out officially on August 10! 
  • NOTORIOUS P.O.G — 4.7% ABV Berliner Weisse. Tart, tropical, and “damn tasty.” 
  • STONE TIKI ESCAPE — 7.7% ABV IPA. Tropical, fruit-forward IPA brewed with Sabro and Mosaic hops. 
  • SOARING DRAGON IMPERIAL IPA — 8% Imperial IPA. Brewed with white peony tea and dry-hopped with Amarillo hops. 
  • LIBERTY STATION LIFEBLOOD — 6.8% American Brown Ale. Roasty and Nutty notes, and a crisp, slightly-sweet finish. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Strangeways Brewing 

All three Strangeways Brewing tasting rooms are open for delivery, curbside pick-up, and to-go orders! They’re also open for draft brews, and wear your mask when visiting in-person. Be sure to check their website for updates. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • SHIMMER & SHAKE — Spiked Sparkling Seltzer. Lemon-lime flavors, with a light, crisp, and effervescent taste for summertime. 
  • AFM WILD ALE — Farmhouse Saison. 2-row, Vienna, and Wheat Malts. Heavily hopped with Columbus in the brewhouse, then aged 22 months in French Oak barrels. Strong, but drinkable, with a balance between hops and funk. 
  • ARNIE’S ARMY — Berliner Weisse. Arnold Palmer flavored Berliner Weisse.
  • BAVARIAN RHAPSODY — Hefeweizen Munich-Style Wheat Beer. 
  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL — Imperial Stout. Highlights intense roast character with moderate sweetness and subtle booze on the nose. 100 percent of proceeds benefit Girls for a Change. 
  • FULL STACK LUMBERJACK — Stout. Dark, rich and luscious. Conditioned with pure Wisconsin Little Man maple syrup and thick-cut Smithfield maple flavored bacon. 
  • GNAR SHREDDER — Double IPA. Soft and pillowy with light sweetness. Intensely fruity from big additions of Vic Secret and Cashmere hops giving notes of passionfruit, peach, pear, and rock candy. Double dry-hopped. 
  • LEGALIZE IT — Small Axe West Coast-Style IPA in honor of the recent decriminalization of marijuana in Virginia. 
  • LUCKY CHARMS BERLINER WEISSE — Cloudy, sour wheat beer. Dry, fruity funk with a sharp tartness. 
  • SEA SPRITZ — Cranberry Berliner Weisse. 
  • WAKE ME UP BEFORE YOU GOSE — Lighthearted Germanic Sour. Lemony tartness alongside Sicilian sea salt, coriander, and ginger to “put the boom-boom into your heart.” 
  • WHAT THE ASTRONAUTS DRINK — Sour Berliner Weisse. Infused with orange flavored drink mix for a familiar tangy flavor. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Triple Crossing Beer

Triple Crossing Beer has to-go and delivery options available, and can shipping is another option as well. Visit their patio for some outdoor time in the East End, and wear your mask! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • FALCON SMASH IPA — Flagship IPA. Dank hop character from Falconer’s Flight dry-hop process. 
  • FOEDER I  — 5% ABV Golden Ale. Candied pineapple, fresh pomelo, light notes of dill and sweet honey with a restrained acidity and dry finish.
  • LAST BROADCAST — Double IPA. Hopped generously with Mosaic, Nelson, Citra and Galaxy. Floral green pineapple citrus, deepened candied grapefruit dank, and soft apricot peach. 
  • PARANOID — 5% ABV Pale Ale. Mango, sweet apricot, and floral grapefruit orange. Built for summer!
  • SIMCOE TRIANGLES — Bright pink grapefruit, pulpy-melon, and citrus flavors. 
  • ZWICK’L — Unfiltered Cold-Conditioned Lager. Bright, floral, lemon, bread crust flavors. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

Väsen Brewing Company

Väsen is open for pickup and delivery! Outdoor seating is available, so please wear your mask and keep folks safe. They’ve recently released a great array of fresh new brews, and we can’t wait to grab a glass of every one! Kegs are also available to take home. 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • EVERYTHING FLOATS ON GUAVA AND PASSION FRUIT — Bold, dry-hopped sour… and all of it floats on a fruity foundation of real guava and passion fruit. Along with the tropical flavors dominating this tart brew, you’ll also find subtle citrus aromas and pleasant floral character from a light addition of citra hops. 
  • Gård — Wild sour ale with a bright, tropical character. 
  • FEASTA — 8% ABV Hazy DIPA. Brewed with Nelson Sauvin, Citra, and Vic Secret Hops. 
  • NEOMEXICANUS — 8% ABV Hazy DIPA. Brewed with Sabro, El Dorado, and Azacca hops.
  • APRICOT SOUR — 7% ABV Sour Ale. Brewed with apricot for a summery, fruity flavor. 
  • MIERKA — 6% ABV Farmhouse Brett Saison. Dry-hopped with Citra and Amarillo hops. 
  • FREYJA — 6% ABV Hazy IPA. Brewed with Mosaic, Rakau, and the 2019 Pink Boots Hop Blend. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

The Veil Brewing Co. 

The Veil Brewing Co. is hosting outdoor to-go sales from both locations. They’ve also got shipping available to select states, and they’re currently open for curbside pickup only. Patio lovers, stay tuned for openings in the future! 

Pickup and Delivery: Order Here 

THE LATEST BEERS 

  • REDREDMIATAMIATA — 6% ABV. Double Dry-hopped IPA with the freshest crops of Galaxy and Mosaic. Fun impressions of berries, musky tropical fruit, clean citrus, and rose.
  • MERCILESS MERCILESS — 8% ABV. Double Dry-hopped DIPA brewed with raw wheat, malted wheat, oats, and piles of fresh Citra, Galaxy, Simcoe, and Vic Secret. Tastes like “You stuffed too many gushers in your mouth, grape flavored Big League Chew gum, and sweet tangerine slices.” 
  • LVL 3 — 11% ABV. Galaxy Triple Dry-hopped Triple IPA. Galaxy Triple Dry-hopped Triple IPA.
  • LUXURIOUS LUXURY VOLUME — 9% ABV. Overindulged Imperial Berliner Gose with black truffle sea salt, marshmallows, boysenberry purée, mango purée, and edible 24k gold flakes. “Concentrated fruit confectionary goodness.” 
  • PURPLEBUGATTI — 11% ABV. Triple IPA with the freshest Galaxy and Vic Secret available to The Veil. An exemplary Australian-hopped Triple IPA.  Awesome pungent notes of tropical fruit gummies, wine grapes, and pine. 
  • VEIN — 4.5% ABV. Pilsner step-mashed with floor-malted barley and hopped with Saaz and Tettnang. Crispy, hoppy, and thirst-quenching.
  • LOVELY — 5.2% ABV. Lovely is a blend of a Farmhouse-inspired Pale Ale and a 100% wheat Farmhouse-inspired ale. Both beers were barrel fermented, inoculated with our house culture, and aged in French oak red wine barrels for 12 months.
  • ERODE — 6.1% ABV. Farmhouse-inspired Ale brewed with pilsner malt, spelt, and some flaked rye, then hopped throughout the entire process with whole leaf Hallertau, Tettnang, and Cascade alongside pellets of Citra, Hallertau Blanc, and a bit of Lemondrop. Impressions of spritzy orange citrus soda, clean minerality, round hoppiness. 
  • FOR LOVE — 5% ABV. For Love is a Lager brewed with raw wheat, a touch of rye, and Sterling hops. Super crispy with a slight citrus twist. Step-mashed, naturally carbonated, and lagered for 2 months in our horizontal tanks. 

Updates: Facebook | Instagram | Website 

That’s it for this week’s RVA On Tap! As your weekly columnist, I’m here to take all your beer releases, event info, ideas and questions. If you’re a brewer, send me your release info at [email protected], and if you’re a beer enthusiast, drop me a line anytime to talk booze. Catch y’all next week! 

RVA On Tap: Ditch The Corona. Here’s How To (Safely) Support Local Brewers!

Caley Sturgill | July 29, 2020

Topics: Ardent craft ales, bars in richmond va, beer, beer column, coronavirus, covid 19, covid19, craft beer, craft beer richmond va, events in richmond va, events near me this weekend, events richmond va, Final Gravity, Fine Creek Brewing Company, happy hour richmond va, Hardywood, Intermission Beer Company, Isley Brewing Company, Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery, richmond events, richmond va, RVA, RVA On Tap, Starr Hill, the answer brewpub, things to do in richmond va, things to do richmond va, triple crossing, vasen brewing

What’s happening, craft beer lovers of RVA?! Welcome to this week’s RVA On Tap, RVA Magazine’s weekly column for all the booze news your hearts desire. 

Our kegs are overflowing this week with craft beer, and we’re not riding out this virus without our favorite local brewers… but this time, we’re bringing them home with us. 

This week in Booze News, we’ve got fresh can releases, new brews for growler fills, and even local ciders and spirits. You’ll get all the best for delivery & pickup, in alphabetical order, to find your local favorites easily. Don’t miss out, Richmond, and continue supporting local business!

We’ve got pickup and delivery services from locals like The Answer Brewpub, Ardent Craft Ales, Belle Isle Moonshine, Bryant’s Cider, Center of the Universe Brewing, Intermission Beer Company, Isley Brewing Company, Final Gravity, Fine Creek Brewing Company, Garden Grove, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, Lickinghole Creek, Starr Hill, Stone Brewing, Strangeways, Triple Crossing, Väsen Brewing Company, The Veil Brewing Co. and more. Stay healthy, and drink up!

BREWERS: If your outdoor spaces are opening at a safely-limited capacity, please email [email protected] with updates.

PHOTO: The Answer Brewpub

The Answer Brewpub

In to-go brews, The Answer Brewpub is first on our alphabetical list of local spots for carry-out purchases. The Answer also released brand new “Black Is Beautiful” brew, plus a series of Quy Pham-inspired beers to honor their beloved friend — so go show them support and spread the love where you can.

Check out their available brews and Order Here!

THE ANSWER BEERS:

  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL IMPERIAL STOUT
  • KISSING THE LIPLESS HAZY NEIPA (sold out)
  • SUMMER SHOWERS (sold out)
  • PETTY MOSAIC SESSION IPA
  • BLUE MAJIK TROPICAL COCKTAIL GOSE
  • IMPERIAL MILK STOUT “QUY IS THE ANSWER”
  • QUY LIME PIE GOSE
  • NEW GUINEA VANILLA BEER
  • TASTED LIKE SUNSHINE DUST
  • FEVER DREAMS
  • THE VIBES
  • MURDER BEARS
  • NO WAY DOWN
  • MALARKEY TIPA
  • MILK CHOCOLATE CHUGYO
  • TACTICAL LAGER
  • QUAD MOTHER OF MORENO: MANGO, MARSHMALLOW, VANILLA
  • CONDRON DOUBLE RASPBERRY CHEESECAKE
  • PASSIONFRUIT MANGO HONEY LEMONADE
  • KING ROBINSON COBBLER: STRAWBERRY RHUBARB
  • IMPERIAL 3 SCOOPS: PASSIONFRUIT MANGO PEACH
  • RUM PASSIONFRUIT PAINKILLER  

Don’t forget to add your tips to support their team when you place your order!

If you’re planning to stop by for a to-go order, the brewery is encouraging you to please follow CDC safety guidelines.

PHOTO: Ardent Craft Ales

Ardent Craft Ales

Ardent Craft Ales is offering curbside pick-up options and delivery. Beer shipping across Virginia and D.C. is available here. Locally in Richmond, you can Order Here!

Ardent partially reopened their beer garden last month, and hours are expanded to 12-8pm Tuesday-Sunday. They’ll also be serving food every day, so head out for a bite and a beer! Keep up with them on social media for updates.

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • IMPERIAL STOUT WITH VANILLA & CACAO NIBS
  • SHORT THROW BREWING – RESTING MY GREATNESS
  • MIXED BERRY GOSE
  • SAISON
  • HIGHPOINT DIPA
  • HONEY GINGER
  • IPA X
  • BOHEMIAN PILSNER
  • IPA 12oz FLAGSHIP IPA
  • ARDENT PILSNER
  • ELDIG BALTIC PORTER
  • EARL GREY BROWN ALE
  • DEFENESTRATOR
  • DARK RYE
  • HONEST ADMIRATION
  • IMPERIAL MILK STOUT

For pickups, park in Ardent’s parking lot off Highpoint Avenue, and give the taproom a call to let them know you’re there. They’ll bring your orders out and check your ID at your car, so folks won’t have to get out and come inside at all. These are expected to be available within 30 minutes of the order being placed, so shoot for that time frame, and you’ll receive updates from Ardent if there are any delays due to higher volumes of orders. 

For deliveries, drivers will come to the address provided, and IDs will be checked upon arrival. Be sure to plan for it — if you’re unavailable when they arrive, they’ll bring your order back to the taproom and keep it available for pick-up.

PHOTO: Belle Isle Moonshine

Belle Isle Moonshine

In more local craft drink news, Belle Isle Moonshine is offering local delivery (even same-day for orders before 2pm!) of their premium moonshine, canned cocktails, and more. Head over to their website to order here if you’re looking to mix things up and add a few cocktails into your evening brews!

Last month, they introduced Honey Habanero & Pineapple, the latest in their series of canned cocktails. This is the first small-batch, limited run cocktail to come out of Belle Isle, and this special recipe is available only to Virginia residents via their Online Distillery Store.

Check out the list below for a full rundown of moonshine and craft cocktails available from the local distillery.

AVAILABLE MOONSHINE & CANNED COCKTAILS:

  • HONEY HABANERO
  • HONEY HABANERO & PINEAPPLE
  • INFUSION 12-PACK
  • BELLE ISLE BLOOD ORANGE MOONSHINE
  • BELLE ISLE RUBY RED GRAPEFRUIT MOONSHINE
  • BELLE ISLE BLACK LABEL MOONSHINE
  • HONEY HABANERO & PINEAPPLE CANNED COCKTAIL
  • BLOOD ORANGE & SODA CANNED COCKTAIL
  • RUBY RED & SODA CANNED COCKTAIL
  • SHINE & SODA CANNED COCKTAIL

Belle Isle also has merch available on their online store, so head over to see all the options when you order drinks.

PHOTO: Bryant’s Cider

Bryant’s Cider

Bryant’s Cider is now open! We’ve been waiting forever to see the brand-new beautiful tasting room (thanks, coronavirus) and we couldn’t be more excited to see they’re able to open safely. Congrats on the opening, Bryant’s, and downtown welcomes you!

Order Online here if you’re still not comfortable venturing out, and check below for a list of everything available for pickup.

AVAILABLE CIDERS:

  • BRITE GOOD
  • SUMTHIN JUICY
  • UNICORN FUEL (this one made them famous, so you’ll definitely want to check it out!)
  • 500ML CANCER
  • 500ML GEMINI
  • 500ML MINT JULEP
  • 500ML SATAN’S HAVEN
  • 500ML STRAWBERRY SNORT
  • 500ML BRITE GOOD
  • 500ML HELL HOP

Stay tuned for more info as we get to test out the new cider location, and support local biz!

PHOTO: Center of the Universe Brewing

Center of the Universe Brewing

Head to cotubrew.square.site to order delivery for their best recipes. You can place orders at (804) 368-0299, or via the website by checking “Fulfillment Method” and “Delivery” with your address before finishing check-out.

AVAILABLE BEERS & CROWLERS:

  • BELGIAN WHEAT ALE
  • BLACKBERRY CRYSTAL COTU HARD SELTZER
  • CHAMELEON IPA
  • CREATIVE JUICES IPA
  • MONKEY’S UNCLE LEMONGRASS TRIPEL
  • OAKY POKEY
  • OATMEAL RAISIN COOKIE PORTER
  • PINEAPPLE WHIP
  • POCAHOPTAS IPA
  • RALLY CAP GRAPEFRUIT SHANDY
  • SUMMER MOON IMPERIAL RASPBERRY WHEAT ALE

Customers can park alongside the front curb and proceed to the front door. Patrons will stay outside, and COTU team will deliver orders to the front. All tips received will benefit the front staff during closures. Kegs are available, ordering via email at [email protected] for availability and pricing. Gift cards are available here.

PHOTO: Final Gravity Brewing Company

Final Gravity Brewing Co. 

Over at Final Gravity Brewing Co., to-go pours are available for every brew you could dream of: all you need to do is grab a Crowler. Check out their website and Order Here!

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • LAKESIDE LAGER
  • JAMES BROWN ALE
  • VENUS RISING DOUBLE IPA
  • ABSOLUTE MAGNITUDE HAZY DIPA
  • ILL TECHNIQUE HAZY DIPA
  • THE DOPPLER EFFECT IPA
  • STEPPING STONE BLONDE ALE
  • THIRD SEASON SAISON
  • FIRE STATION 5 AMERICAN AMBER ALE
  • IRISH GOODBYE STOUT

Delivery runs up to 10 miles! For regular pickup, head inside to their bar. For curbside pickup, there’s a green tent set up behind their building. Call 264-48084, Option 1, to let them know when you’ve arrived.

PHOTO: Fine Creek Brewing Company

Fine Creek Brewing Company 

Out at Fine Creek Brewing Company, beer delivery is available! Check out Fine Creek’s website for a full list of beers available for pick-up and delivery, and find them on Facebook for updates and more information. Order Here!

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • HELLES LAGER
  • TRICKNOLOGY IPA
  • GAMMA GARDEN DIPA
  • DAD STRENGTH DIPA CROWLER
  • MURPHY & RUDE MOSAIC PALE ALE
  • NEW ZEALAND PILSNER
  • PARTICLE FALLS SMOKED IPA
  • RAYGUN GOTHIC IPA
  • RYE LAGER CROWLER
  • HOPPY CROWLER
  • LAGER CROWLER
  • HERBARIUM WILD SAISON
  • BARREL AGED GOLDEN SOUR

Be sure to keep up with Fine Creek on social media and at their website for the latest news from these awesome Powhatan brewers!

PHOTO: Garden Grove Brewing & Urban Winery

Garden Grove Brewing & Urban Winery

At Garden Grove, along with carry-out orders, they’ve also started curbside pick-up for all their best brews. With your favorites like EarthTone, you’ll be able to order beers here and pick them up from your car to keep things safe.

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • CARTOON VILLAIN IPA
  • MADELINE SAISON
  • TABLE FOR TWO BELGIAN PALE ALE
  • EARTHTONE
  • GIVE EM’ HELLES
  • KOUSHMA
  • ROUGAROU
  • ARASSAS KOLSCH
  • FERGUS WEE-HEAVY
  • EVANGELINE
  • SYNTHESIS

WINE:

  • HUAY CHIVO CIDER
  • KOBOLD DRY-HOPPED CIDER
  • SUPER SEYSHAN CIDER
  • GRANDEUR!
  • TYPHOON PASSION FRUIT AND MANGO HONEY WINE
  • PINK LEMONADE HONEY WINE
  • 2018 CHARDONNAY
  • 2017 PETIT VERDOT
  • 2018 ADAPTATION
  • SYNTHESIS 300ML

They’re keeping things safe, and encouraging folks to use curbside pickup to limit the number of customers in the taproom at any given time on to-go orders. Keep up with them on Facebook for updates. 

PHOTO: Hardywood West Creek by Chad Williams of Creative Visual Design

Hardywood Park Craft Brewery

Hardywood West Creek and Richmond locations are open, folks! The outdoor spaces have been re-arranged to allow for proper social distancing, and all us Hardywood fans can now visit them again safely. New hours are Tuesday-Friday 2-9pm, and Saturday-Sunday 12-9pm. First come, first serve! Find more information here on rules and what to expect.

If you’d rather still drink from home, head over here to Order Online. They’ll be offering awesome new beer releases regularly, so be sure to stay updated with them going forward.

Hardywood Richmond brews listed below. CLICK HERE for West Creek info & cases/growler fills!

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • PEACH TRIPEL
  • NONE OF THIS MAKES SENSE
  • BALTIC SUNRISE
  • HARDYWOOD HEFEWEIZEN
  • TURNING POINT
  • BOURBON CRU
  • RICHMOND LAGER
  • GREAT RETURN
  • HARDYWOOD PILS
  • HARDYWOOD SINGEL
  • VIPA
  • WYLDFLOWER
  • TANGERINE SUNCRUSH
  • WEST CREEK HARD CIDER
  • HOPKEEPER
  • BOURBON BALTIC SUNRISE
  • RASPBERRY STOUT

Keep up with Hardywood on Instagram and Facebook for more updates, and make your way out to support!

PHOTO: Intermission Beer Company

Intermission Beer Company 

Intermission Beer Company is open! Masks are required to enter.

Intermission is now open for taproom and patio seating, for 21+ only and no pets during this time (hold tight, dog lovers!) It’s first-come, first-serve, and it’ll be closed for seating once they reach capacity. Always remember to wear your mask and keep folks safe!

Order Here for delivery! To grab a curbside pickup order, call or text Intermission at 804-585-0405 and they’ll deliver any of their available beers straight to your car when you arrive. Beer slushies are now available, too!

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • BEER SLUSHIES! Check Facebook every Friday to see the weekend’s flavor.
  • HONEY HIBISCUS SAISON
  • HATHOR GOSE SOUR
  • GHOST LIGHT LAGER
  • OVATION HARD SELTZER LEMON
  • OVATION HARD SELTZER ORANGE
  • OVATION HARD SELTZER RASPBERRY
  • STRAWBERRY BLONDE
  • VIENNA CREAM ALE
  • CONJURED DARKNESS
  • TROPICAL THUNDER IPA

They’ll deliver within a 5 mile radius of Intermission, and reserve the right to cancel any orders further than 5 miles away. You can check here to see if your address is within their range.

Check with Intermission on Facebook for updates as things go on, and catch up with them to find out more about brews on tap. 

PHOTO: Isley Brewing Company

Isley Brewing Company 

To-go brews are available at Isley Brewing Company! The tasting room will be closed, but beers on tap will be available for pickup. Order Here!

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • ISLEY SUNBURNT COUNTRY DIPA
  • TEA-RIFFIC SWEET TEA AMBER ALE
  • SET SAIL
  • SHIP FACED
  • 6 FEET CLOSER TO YOU
  • OFF THE BOULEVARD
  • THE BRIBE
  • CHOOSY MOTHER
  • PLAIN JANE
  • PLAIN JANE STRAWBERRY
  • PLANE JANE BLUEBERRY
  • CASH AND CARRY CASHMERE HAZY IPA
  • RHIZOME SUN
  • APPLE OF MY EYE BLONDE ALE
  • ISLEY CZECH PILSNER
  • RASPBERRY RAZZLE
  • GOSE-BUSTERS

In orders, be sure to include your name, address, email, and what you’d like to order in four-packs, then let them know when you’re there. There’s a minimum purchase of two four-packs per order, and delivery charges will apply. A big plus: they deliver up to 5 miles away from the brewery — so if you’re located further out, it’s no problem!

Check their post here for more information on ordering, and keep up with Isley on Facebook for updates. 

PHOTO: Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery

Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery

Multi-state shipping and drive-thru pickup now available! Get your brews online and Order Here from Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery’s website.

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • GOOCHLAND QUADRUPEL ALE
  • BEAR BAIT BERLINER WEISSE WITH BLACKBERRIES
  • JUICY #21
  • WATERMELON GOSE
  • NINE MILE IPA
  • LCCB JUICY #20
  • ABSOLUTE COUP OF ENLIGHTENED DESPOT
  • NUCLEAR NUGGET IMPERIAL HONEY IPA
  • BLUEBERRY FRENCH TOAST IMPERIAL BROWN ALE
  • THREE CHOPT TRIPEL
  • HEIR APPARENT MEXICAN SPICED IMPERIAL STOUT
  • MAIDENS BLONDE ALE
  • FRENCH TOAST BROWN ALE
  • VIRGINIA STRAWBERRY HEFEWEIZEN
  • ONE RIDE NON-ALCOHOLIC
  • SUNFLOWER SAISON
  • CHALLENGE THE BEAR BALTIC PORTER
  • TWELFTH NIGHT SPICED BELGIAN QUAD
  • VANILLA VIRGINIA BLACK BEAR
  • COCONUT QUADRUPLE ALE
  • RUM BARREL AGED CARROT CAKE IMPERIAL AMBER ALE
  • BOURBON BARREL & GINGER THREE CHOPT TRIPEL
  • REDNECK SOAP OPERA
  • ILLUMINATOS
  • HIDE THE DESPOT
  • HUG THE DESPOT
  • AWAKEN THE DESPOT

Head over here to Lickinghole Creek’s website for more information on policies regarding COVID-19, and catch up with them on Facebook here. 

PHOTO: Starr Hill Richmond

Starr Hill Richmond Beer Hall & Rooftop 

Starr Hill is also keeping things safe, with to-go beer sales taking place during abbreviated business hours. All of their year-round beers will be available, in addition to some special favorites from the brewery. Order Here!

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • SUMMER TOUR
  • SAY IT AIN’T SOUR
  • CRYSTAL RIVER GRAPEFRUIT IPA
  • KING KUNU PINEAPPLE IPA
  • NORTHERN LIGHTS IPA
  • RAMBLE ON HAZY IPA
  • REVIVER RED IPA
  • STAY FOREVER ESPRESSO STOUT
  • SUBLIME CITRUS WIT
  • WAREHOUSE PILS
  • CARLY CUCUMBER GOSE
  • CAROLE CRAN-RASPBERRY GOSE
  • FRONT ROW GOLDEN ALE
  • GRATEFUL PALE ALE
  • JOMO LAGER
  • NORTHERN LIGHTS IPA
  • PIXIE PINEAPPLE GOSE
  • ROXANNE RASPBERRY SOUR
  • THE LOVE HEFEWEIZEN
  • WILD HEART HOPPY BLONDE
  • 2 TONE VANILLA PORTER
  • ALL THAT HAZY IPA
  • CURRANT AFFAIRS BLACKBERRY CURRANT SOUR
  • EXPAT BARREL STOUT
  • HATHOR RASPBERRY GOSE
  • LIZZY LIME GOSE
  • LOOKING GLASS IPA
  • REDUX RASPBERRY SPARKLING ALE

+ More in cases! Check out Starr Hill’s website for more details.

Keep up with them on Facebook for updates on hours and information, and check their website here for news on their COVID-19 precautions being implemented at the brewery. 

PHOTO: Stone Brewing Richmond

Stone Brewing Richmond

Stone Brewing Richmond is open for pick-up! This awesome East End brewery has had some delicious releases lately, and you can keep up with them on Facebook for updates on the newest brews. Order Online!

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • STONE FARKING WHEATON W00TSTOUT VINTAGE
  • STONE RUINED AGAIN TRIPLE IPA
  • STONE TIKI ESCAPE
  • STONE IPA
  • BUENAVEZA SALT & LIME LAGER
  • DELICIOUS
  • ENTER NIGHT PILSNER
  • TROPIC OF THUNDER
  • SCORPION BOWL IPA
  • ///FEAR.MOVIE.LIONS DIPA
  • TANGERINE EXPRESS IPA
  • STONE RIPPER
  • ARROGANT BASTARD ALE

Be sure to keep up with their updated available beer list here, as supplies are subject to change. Drink happy, y’all!

PHOTO: Strangeways Brewing

Strangeways Brewing

Strangeways Brewing just celebrated their 7-year anniversary, and they’ve got fresh brews for us every week!

All 3 tasting rooms are open for delivery, curbside pick-up, and to-go orders! Be sure to check their website to Order Online.

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL IMPERIAL STOUT
  • SHIMMER & SHAKE SPIKED SPARKLING SELTZER LEMON-LIME
  • AFM WILD ALE FARMHOUSE SAISON
  • ALBINO MONKEY BELGIAN WHITE
  • ARNIE’S ARMY BERLINER WEISSE
  • BAVARIAN RHAPSODY HEFEWEIZEN
  • DR. FOUDRE I WILD ALE
  • FULL STACK LUMBERJACK STOUT
  • GNAR SHREDDER DIPA
  • HELLES FROZEN OVER MUNICH HELLES LAGER
  • LEGALIZE IT WEST COAST IPA
  • LUCKY CHARMS BERLINER WEISSE
  • MARTIAN SPRING HOPPY ALE
  • PLAYDAY PILSNER
  • RAZZLES DAZZLE BERLINER WEISSE
  • RED SANGRIA BERLINER WEISSE
  • SEA SPRITZ CRANBERRY BERLINER WEISSE
  • SLEAZESTACK NEW ENGLAND IPA
  • SLIGHTLY STOOPID SOUR IRISH STOUT
  • SMUCKER’S JELLY BERLINER WEISSE
  • SOUR CHERRY COBBLER BERLINER WEISSE
  • TIRAMI’ZU RUM BARREL AGED PORTER
  • TURBOGENERATOR
  • UBERLIN BERLINER WEISSE
  • WAKE ME UP BEFORE YOU GOSE
  • WOODBOOGER BELGIAN STYLE BROWN ALE

Be sure to catch up with Strangeways on their website for a full list of beers, and for the most-updated brews available.

PHOTO: Triple Crossing Beer

Triple Crossing Beer 

Triple Crossing Beer has to-go and delivery options available, and can shipping is another brand-new option!

With Texting Can Alerts, you can text TCALERTS to (855) 918-2808 to be enrolled with all the new can releases and beer information available at Triple Crosisng. If you’re feeling hungry, they’ve also got food to-go, which is awesome to have around (and we love their pizza!) Order Here!

AVAILABLE BEERS:

Fulton

  • FOEDER I
  • LAST BROADCAST
  • NECTAT AND KNIFE DIPA
  • ZWICK’L

Downtown

  • FOEDER I
  • LAST BROADCAST

Be sure to check your locations and order here, as different locations will have different availability.

Triple Crossing is also offering delivery options, and thanks to high demand, they’re able to keep supporting their staff while the taproom is closed. Be sure to tip your delivery drivers well, and help service industry folks get through these shutdowns. Head here to order downtown pick-up orders, and here for Fulton pick-up orders. Keep up with Triple Crossing on Facebook here. 

PHOTO: Väsen Brewing Company

Väsen Brewing Company

At Väsen Brewing Company, Order Here for pickup and delivery!

Väsen recently partnered up with The Capsoul Collective for a brand-new brew called Cohesion: a Double IPA collaboration with Chilalay and local artist Marlon Diggs.

According to Capsoul, this collaboration was brought about after a conversation between Eric Jackson, Co-Founder of Capsoul, and Tony Giordano, Head Brewer of Väsen, on the racial injustices that America and the city of Richmond are experiencing. This beer was designed to show unity and a way to raise money to give back to the community.

The label of this special release was designed to “highlight the Richmond art community while showing how distorted, torn, and broken pieces can come together to create something beautiful,” according to Capsoul. Proceeds from Cohesion will be donated directly to the local BIPOC community.

To celebrate the release with its brewers, head to Chilalay on August 14 and Väsen on August 15 (plus a VIP tasting event at Väsen on August 16). As always, wear your mask and be safe if you’re going out in public.

Information on Väsen’s available beers for pickup and delivery this week can be found below.

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • FEASTA
  • APRICOT SOUR
  • MIERKA
  • NEOMEXICANUS
  • HEFEWEIZEN
  • FREYJA
  • RADAPILS
  • ESCAPE CLOUD
  • THE SUNRISE OTTER
  • HATHOR GOSE
  • MEXICAN LAGER
  • LAGER
  • THE VELVET WALRUS ON VANILLA COFFEE & CINNAMON
  • WINDHOOK IPA
  • NORSE DOUBLE IPA
  • VANILLA MOONBEAR DUBBEL
  • GOLDENBEAR TRIPEL
  • CITRON SAISON

Check out the full order info here!

PHOTO: The Veil Brewing Co.

The Veil Brewing Co.


The Veil Brewing Co. will be doing outdoor to-go sales from both locations. Cans will be sold directly outside of the main entrance of our taproom under a tent in the parking lot side of both locations. Order Here!

AVAILABLE BEERS:

  • PURPLEBUGATTI
  • PREMIUM SAUCE
  • VEIN
  • SIGNAL DRAFT
  • NEVER NEVER FEAR FEAR
  • TYPHOON LAGOON TASTEE
  • LOVELY
  • ERODE
  • FOR LOVE
  • NEVER NEVER MIND MIND
  • HOLLOW PLACE: SINGLE ORIGIN

Check here for updated lists, as stock is subject to change as orders come in.

That’s it for this week’s RVA On Tap! As your weekly columnist, I’m here to take all your beer releases, event info, ideas and questions. If you’re a brewer, send me your release info at [email protected], and if you’re a beer enthusiast, drop me a line anytime to talk booze. Catch y’all next week! 

RVA On Tap: Bryant’s Cider Taps Downtown

Caley Sturgill | March 11, 2020

Topics: alewerks brewing, Ardent craft ales, bars in richmond va, beer, beer column, bryants cider, craft beer, craft beer richmond va, events in richmond va, events near me this weekend, events richmond va, Fine Creek Brewing Company, happy hour richmond va, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, Intermission Beer Company, midnight brewery, omnipollo, richmond events, richmond va, RVA, RVA On Tap, The Veil Brewing Co., things to do in richmond va, things to do richmond va, Triple Crossing Beer

What’s happening, craft beer lovers of RVA?! Welcome to this week’s RVA On Tap, RVA Magazine’s weekly column for all your craft beer-related events, releases, festivals, and all the booze news your hearts desire. 

If you missed the last column, you can check that out here. Our kegs are overflowing this week with beer releases and festivals, events, and other cool happenings around town, so hold on to your mugs. 

This week, the beloved Bryant’s Cider announces their brand-new spot downtown, with all the charm of their family orchard origins. Hardywood kicks off four new releases this Friday and Saturday, and Last Broadcast DIPA returns to Triple Crossing Beer. 

Ardent and Alewerks come together for a sweet & spicy Imperial Stout, and The Veil tests the limits of fruit beers with Omnipollo. Don’t miss Fine Creek’s English Pub Ale, Midnight Brewery’s St. Paddy’s Day celebrations this weekend, and terrarium-building workshops at Intermission Beer Company tonight. 

PHOTO: Bryant’s Cider

Governor Northam Announces New Bryant’s Cider Location in Downtown Richmond 

Kicking off this week’s Booze News, the governor recently announced a new location and production facility for Bryant’s Cider in Richmond. You may already recognize Bryant’s from their famous Unicorn Fuel brew, which quickly became popular with its first release.

Now the family farm is bringing a piece of itself into downtown, and we’re excited for the new spot. Bryant’s has been long-loved by the craft beer and cider family since its original opening. The fresh space will be located in a revitalized historic Shockoe Bottom building, and according to owner Jerry Thompson, they plan to create an experience that “you won’t be able to find anywhere else in the city.” With their newfound production space, they’ll be able to partner with local artisans and collaborate with more local businesses. 

This family-owned cidery comes with a warm welcome from Richmonders, and here at RVA Magazine, we’re especially glad to see the growth of independent business like ourselves in our beloved hometown. Bryant’s Cider currently operates on their sixth-generation family orchard, and as an added bonus, they’re even planting apple trees on the site, in true Bryant’s fashion. 

Congratulations to Bryant’s! We can’t wait to check it out. Stay tuned with RVA On Tap for more updates, and come see the new location after its soft opening on March 14, along with some brand-new special releases. 

PHOTO: Hardywood Park Craft Brewery

Four Releases Come to Hardywood Park Craft Brewery This Weekend 

It’s going to be a big weekend for Hardywood. Our buds at the brewery have four releases lined up for this Friday and Saturday, starting off with Nona’s Biscotti coming out in cans to begin.

Nona’s Biscotti is the #FreshCanFriday feature this week, and this Tuscan old country-inspired recipe is Hardywood’s tribute to the twice-baked cookie family favorite. With a blend of almond and walnut nuttiness, the ingredients of this brew perfectly complement each other. You’ll catch zhuzhed up vanilla, milk sugar, and toasted coconut, along with a touch of anise, in this one — and at 9.5% ABV, one can will get your weekend going right from the beginning. 

As Hardywood says, “From our famiglia to yours, cent’anni!” 

On Friday, they’ve also got their Richmond Lager draft release. This one is well-known for its River City-themed mini bottles, and the city’s favorite lager is finally coming out on draft. Friday night will include plenty of celebrations, with giveaways along with live music from Andrew Alli and Josh Small. 

On Saturday, look out for Hopkeeper and Bourbon Cru. Hopkeeper comes to us from Virginia-grown malt from Williamsburg’s Copper Fox Distillery, and this Double IPA has flavors like juicy pineapple, fresh orange zest, and citrus fruit along with its Virginia Honey additions. Bourbon Cru is on the other end of the spectrum, with a “rich mahogany hue.” This one has tastes like almond, toffee, oaky vanilla, and caramel, with notes of dark cherries and raisins.

PHOTO: Triple Crossing Beer

Last Broadcast DIPA Returns to Triple Crossing Beer this Friday 

This Friday brings the first return of Last Broadcast in 2020 at Triple Crossing Beer in Fulton.

At 8% ABV, this Double IPA hits perfectly on the alcohol scale, and there’s even more perfection to this brew: it combines soft apricot peach flavors with candied grapefruit dank, plus floral green pineapple citrus. Could that sound any better?

Last Broadcast DIPA came together with hops like Mosaic, Nelson, Citra, and Galaxy, with great flavor complements from each individual addition. As Triple Crossing notes, this perfectly-balanced recipe was created to cohesively pull together that softness that’s widely sought by Double IPA fans.

PHOTO: Ardent Craft Ales

Collab with Ardent Craft Ales and Alewerks Brewing Company 

Man, this is a good one. Our buds at Ardent Craft Ales came together with Alewerks Brewing Company to create the Honest Admiration Imperial Stout: a stout that’s big, bold, and brewed to reflect the mutual sentiment between these breweries. 

Honest Admiration is not only wholesome, it’s delicious. These Caribbean-inspired flavors include a cinnamon aroma, unrefined cane sugar blended with vanilla, nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon, and peppers. It’s right in between sweet and spicy, and it brings out the best of both. At 10.6% ABV, it’s in an average range for stouts, and it’s higher on the IBU scale at 40 for those who want to taste the bitterness in their hops. 

With a moderate sweetness and varied spices, this “intricately-layered” stout balances it all.

PHOTO: Fine Creek Brewing Company

Friday Beer Feature at Fine Creek Brewing Company

Over the weekend at Fine Creek Brewing Company, the English Pub Ale came out for their Friday Beer Feature.

This 6% ABV Pub Ale is reminiscent of the atmosphere at Fine Creek, with a homey ambiance and pub-like vibe that “evokes the older traditions of taverns and public houses,” as Fine Creek says. When they created the English Pub Ale, they combined English ingredients with an American yeast strain to brew up something to embrace their location’s feel.

Its malts come from the Murphy & Rude Malting Co. with malts like Biscuit and Brown, and it blends with English Milds and Bitters. With tastes like graham cracker, toasted bread, and biscuits, English Pub Ale’s full body also features mild citrus characters along with peach and apricot yeast esters.

Come out to grab a glass at Fine Creek while it lasts, and find a little piece of the UK right outside the River City.

PHOTO: The Veil Brewing Co.

Weekly Multi-Release at The Veil

The Veil Brewing Co. is at it again with a wide list of beer releases this week, and you can catch all these beauties now at the brewery. Tefnut (Berry Blaster) kicks things off for us, and this collaboration with Omnipollo is a fresh variation of their original Tefnut. This one comes to us with blueberry, blackberry, raspberry, boysenberry, and strawberry puree to fully live up to its name.

The Berry Blaster is a cosmic Imperial Gose, and at 11% ABV with this deep red pour (pictured above), you won’t want to miss a taste of it. Its brewers wanted to reimagine what a fruit beer can be, and with new processes and fruit volumes, they have definitely accomplished that task. 

Never Never Lucky Lucky comes next, as a St. Paddy’s Day-inspired Gose brewed with double kiwi puree. In The Veil’s true fashion, its double name comes as a double version of their original Never Lucky, and with salt and lemon balances, you’ll catch bold kiwi tastes in this one at 5.1% ABV (so you can enjoy more than one for the holiday — which we know you will). 

Master Master Shredder Shredder is a bit higher at 5.5% ABV, but not so much that you’ll have to cut back your pour limit. With juicy cantaloupe, melon, orange, and blueberry, Master Master Shredder Shredder combines a big array of fruit flavors into one double dry-hopped house IPA. 

Crucial Taunt³ comes on the heels of The Veil’s original Crucial Taunt, but this one packs a big flavor punch from its triple dry-hopped process. At 8% ABV, candied orange and pineapple are the dominating tastes in this brew, and its Citra-forward notes showcase the best from this hop addition.

HMU is an 8.5% Double IPA, and after a few of these, “hit me up” is exactly what you’ll be saying to everyone at the bar. Brewed with El Dorado, BRU-1, Enigma, Simcoe, Kohatu, and Citra hops, HMU brings together a big combination of hop additions for a balanced taste. You’ll find notes like canned pineapple, lychee, and pungent mango in this one, with impressions of a freshly-opened bag of hops.

Gladiola Pumpernickel closes out our releases from The Veil this week. This open-fermented Hefeweizen is unlike many of the other recipes of theirs on the roster, and it was fermented at higher temperatures than Braühaüsenweisse, according to its brewers. At 5.4% ABV, it was dry-hopped with Hallertau Mittelfruh hops straight out of Germany, and it’s got notes from floral to earthy… and as The Veil says, it tastes like “taking a spin on a hay-ride through a field of flowers with your grandma on a nice spring afternoon.” And oh, what I would give to teleport to a moment like that.

PHOTO: Midnight Brewery

St. Patrick’s Day at Midnight Brewery 

More St. Paddy’s Day celebrations are coming up at Midnight Brewery with their party coming up this Saturday. 

If you’re looking for an occasion to drive out of town, this is a great one. Midnight is located out in Rockville near Hanover and Goochland County, and they’re celebrating big this holiday. Come out to catch live music from Elana Lisa & the Hot Mess, plus River City Wood Fire Pizza to satisfy all your cheesy, wood-fired cravings. 

Midnight is also releasing their Jack McStout beer for the occasion, and according to the brewers, rumor has it that big Jack is making an appearance — so whether you’re a fan from Richmond or a regular at the Rockville brewery, it’s one for the calendar.

PHOTO: Intermission Beer Company

Plant Nite at Intermission Beer Company 

Where the yogis at? Tonight at Intermission Beer Company, you don’t have to say “Namaste” after a long session of downward dogs and sun salutations — you can get all the great, earthy feelings from working with plants. 

For Plant Nite, Intermission is bringing out Kat Hemphill to help attendees make their own custom terrariums (no green thumb or trips to the garden store required, they say). Terrarium-making has become a popular hobby for folks in the River City over the last few years, with workshops popping up around town, friends hosting plant parties at their houses, and even PlantBar RVA opening up in The Fan for full-time plant crafting opportunities.

Now you can try your hand alongside your favorite craft beers at Intermission, and head down to the brewery tonight to learn from Hemphill’s talents. Make your own to bring home, and grab tickets here ahead of time if you plan to attend. May the ferns be with you! 

That’s it for this week’s RVA On Tap! As your weekly columnist, I’m here to take all your beer releases, event info, ideas and questions. If you’re a brewer, send me your release info at [email protected], and if you’re a beer enthusiast, drop me a line anytime to talk booze. Catch y’all next week! 

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