Best Breweries in Charlottesville VA | 2025 Guide
Charlottesville, Virginia — updated April 17, 2026
Explore the best craft breweries in Charlottesville VA. Local IPAs, lagers & tasting rooms. Plan your Charlottesville brewery tour today!
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Introduction
Charlottesville and Albemarle County are home to a thriving craft brewery scene, with over a dozen breweries within easy reach of downtown. Whether you prefer hoppy IPAs, classic lagers, or innovative experimental brews, the local beer community has something for every palate. Here is your definitive guide to the best craft breweries in Charlottesville.
1. Decipher Brewing
Located at 1740 Broadway Street, Decipher Brewing has quickly become one of Charlottesville's most beloved breweries with an impressive 4.8/5 rating. This craft brewery is celebrated for its innovative flavors and friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
The brewery focuses on small-batch, creative beers with standout offerings in IPAs and stouts. The casual, laid-back setting makes it perfect for gathering with friends. Try their rotating seasonal selections and don't miss their collaboration brews with other local breweries.
Address: 1740 Broadway St, Charlottesville, VA 22902
2. Starr Hill Brewery
An OG of the Charlottesville beer scene, Starr Hill has been brewing since 1999 and continues to innovate. Their taproom at the Dairy Market on Preston Avenue offers a great selection alongside diverse food options from neighboring vendors.
Must-try: Their "Ramble On" New England Style IPA explodes with tropical fruit flavors and juicy citrus aromas. Also try the Stupid Sexy Flanders Sour, which won gold in the 'European Sour' category at the 2025 Virginia Craft Beer Cup. Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 2:00-6:00 PM with $4 off rotating drafts.
Address: 946 Grady Ave Suite 101, Charlottesville, VA 22903
3. Three Notch'd Craft Kitchen & Brewery
Starting from humble beginnings on Grady Avenue in 2013, Three Notch'd has expanded to multiple Virginia locations. Their Charlottesville brewpub at Ix Art Park offers a full-service craft kitchen alongside their award-winning beers.
Their flagship Minute Man IPA is loaded with orange flavors from Strata, Mosaic, and Idaho 7 hops - a juicy IPA they were brewing before the haze craze. Visit on Mondays for $3 draft pours and $25 cases of Minute Man IPA.
Address: 520 2nd St SE, Charlottesville, VA 22902
4. Random Row Brewing Co.
Found at 608 Preston Avenue, Random Row Brewing Co. has earned a stellar 4.5/5 rating for their award-winning, exceptionally crafted beers. The hearth-fired pizza pairs perfectly with their brews.
Must-try: The POG Wheat Beer made with Passionfruit, Orange, and Guava is a great gateway beer for those new to craft brewing. Their Mosaic Pale Ale won bronze at the 2025 Virginia Craft Beer Cup. Also try the Mexican Logger for something refreshing.
Address: 608 Preston Ave #A, Charlottesville, VA 22903
5. Rockfish Brewing Company
With two convenient locations - one on the Downtown Mall and one on Preston Avenue - Rockfish offers accessible craft beer with excellent food pairings. Their California Common "Steam Beer" won gold in the 'Amber Ale' category at the 2025 Virginia Craft Beer Cup.
The Steam Beer offers a nice malt character with tastes of caramel and toasted bread without being overly bitter. Both locations serve delicious food to accompany your brew.
Downtown Address: 201 W Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Preston Ave Address: 953 Preston Ave, Charlottesville, VA 22903
6. South Street Brewery
Serving craft beer in Charlottesville since 1998, South Street Brewery (now owned by Blue Mountain Brewery) is a local institution. Their Satan's Pony Amber Ale has become iconic in the local beer scene.
Don't miss the Barrel-Aged Imperial Satan's Pony, which won silver in 'Best in Show' and gold in 'Wood Aged Beer' at the 2025 Virginia Craft Beer Cup. It's a true Amber Ale with balanced malt profile and a bit of sweetness.
Address: 106 South St W, Charlottesville, VA 22902
7. Superfly Brewing Co.
The newest addition to Charlottesville's brewing scene, Superfly is owned by UK native Ed Liversidge, who specializes in English-inspired beers alongside classic American styles.
Their Midnight Train London Porter won bronze at the 2025 Virginia Craft Beer Cup and is arguably one of the best porters in Virginia. Their Down on the Farm Belgian Ale also won gold. Located at 943 Preston Avenue.
Address: 943 Preston Ave Suite 2, Charlottesville, VA 22903
8. Selvedge Brewing
Located in the recently renovated Bellair Place on the west side of Charlottesville, Selvedge Brewing offers small-batch, culinary-inspired beers in an urban chic factory-themed space.
Their Threadenator Smoked Beer received silver, Linen Kolsch won bronze, and Denim Lager got honorable mention at the 2025 Virginia Craft Beer Cup. The taproom has plenty of room, stellar beer, and excellent food menus.
Address: 2415 Ivy Rd Ste 190, Charlottesville, VA 22903
9. Blue Mountain Brewery
Located about 20 minutes outside Charlottesville in Afton, Blue Mountain is worth the scenic drive for their award-winning beers and stunning mountain views. They also own South Street Brewery in town.
Blue Mountain won gold in both 'Pale Ale' and 'Cream & Blonde Ale' categories at the 2025 Virginia Craft Beer Cup. The outdoor seating offers spectacular Blue Ridge views.
Address: 9519 Critzers Shop Rd, Afton, VA 22920
Conclusion
Charlottesville's craft brewery scene offers incredible variety, from English-style porters to hazy IPAs to award-winning amber ales. Most breweries welcome families and dogs, offer outdoor seating, and provide food options. Many offer brewery tours and special events throughout the year. Whether you're a local or just passing through, these breweries showcase the best of Virginia's thriving craft beer culture.