If you’re a fan of handcrafted spirits and are looking for a unique experience in Halifax County, Virginia, then a visit to Springfield Distillery is a must. This family-owned distillery is nestled in the bucolic rolling hills of Halifax County and is known for its award-winning small-batch spirits.
The distillery is a short drive from the town of Halifax and offers tours and tastings of their spirits. The tour starts with a brief history of the distillery, which was founded in 2014, later opening in 2016 by owners Kelly and James Gordon. They found inspiration in the distillery’s namesake, Springfield, a historic home on the property that dates back to 1842. Back then, everything was made with your bare hands. Life was simple, not easy, and the reward was to sit on the porch you made with a glass of whiskey you distilled. This philosophy is evident everywhere you look at Springfield, from the distilling process to the traditional craftsmanship of the buildings.
During the tour, you’ll meet Kelly’s son, Mason, distiller and “Mash Master” of Springfield. He’ll teach you all about the distilling process, from milling the grains to fermenting and distilling the spirits. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at the equipment used to create their award-winning spirits, including their copper pot still.
One of the unique aspects of Springfield Distillery is that they use locally sourced ingredients to create their spirits. The grains used are grown by farmers in the surrounding area, and the water used in the distilling process comes from a nearby spring. In fact, corn used for the traditional SCRATCH Corn Whiskey is grown on a farm across the road from Springfield. This commitment to using local ingredients not only supports the local economy but also ensures that the spirits have a distinctly regional flavor.
After the tour, it’s time for the tasting. Springfield Distillery offers a variety of whiskey. Their award-winning Springfield Straight Bourbon is aged in oak barrels for up to two years and has a smooth finish. Another popular spirit is the Springfield 1842 Whiskey, which is aged in port or wine barrels, sourced from Halifax County’s Hunting Creek Vineyards, offers hints of wood and smoke. For those who want something with less of a bite, SCRATCH whiskies also come in a variety of flavors at 60 proof, from berries to maple. If you’re not sure which spirit to try, the staff at Springfield Distillery are knowledgeable and can help guide you through the tasting. They’ll also provide suggestions on how to enjoy the spirits, whether it’s in a cocktail or sipped neat.
Another unique feature of Springfield is the tasting room itself. The tasting room is housed within an old log cabin that was originally constructed in the 1800s. The cabin was moved to the property in 2015 with the help of Barnwood Builders, a show that celebrates American and traditional craftsmanship. The same craftsmanship is found in the two rustic cabins on site – perfect for a night’s stay only a stone’s throw from the distillery.
In addition to tours and tastings, Springfield Distillery has event spaces and hosts events throughout the year, including live music and food trucks. They also have a gift shop where you can purchase bottles of their spirits, as well as t-shirts, hats, and other merchandise. Every Wednesday distillery employees host Whiskey Wednesday, where they teach viewers how to make a few cocktails with Springfield products. Held virtually, viewers can tune in and follow along from anywhere with an internet connection.
Whether you’re a spirits aficionado or just looking for a fun activity to do with friends, Springfield Distillery is definitely worth a visit. From the picturesque location to the handcrafted spirits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss the chance to sit on the tasting room’s porch, sipping a craft spirit, and enjoy the fruits of Kelly and company’s traditional labor.
Shop Springfield’s online store here.
