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Ragged Branch Distillery

4.8
·127 reviews·Charlottesville, United States

Award-winning bourbon distillery with stunning mountain views and on-site beef sales. A must-visit for spirits and scenery lovers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend Afternoons

Vibrant atmosphere, live music sometimes

CrowdHigh
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Our three products

Ragged Branch Distillery

Best Time

Weekend Afternoons

Vibrant atmosphere, live music sometimes

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Award-winning bourbon distillery with stunning mountain views and on-site beef sales. A must-visit for spirits and scenery lovers.

4.8
(127 reviews)

"The best bourbon I have tasted in this area, coupled with outstanding tasting room views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Ahead for Weekends

Reservations are highly recommended for weekend visits to secure your tasting slot.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing some walking around the scenic grounds and tasting room.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bourbon Tasting Flights

Bourbon Tasting Flights

Tasting Room

Sample up to four distinct bourbons and a rye whiskey, each with unique profiles.

TikTokReddit
Scenic Views

Scenic Views

Outdoor Seating & Tasting Room

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding hills from the tasting room and patio.

TikTokInstagram
Bourbon Cocktails

Bourbon Cocktails

Bar

Savor expertly crafted cocktails like the Bourbon Margarita or Old Fashioned.

TikTokInstagram
On-Site Beef Sales

On-Site Beef Sales

Retail Area

Purchase high-quality, locally raised beef alongside your favorite bourbon bottles.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tasting Experience

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend visits, to secure your spot for a tasting flight or cocktail. Many visitors suggest booking in advance to avoid disappointment and ensure a smooth experience at this popular Virginia distillery. TikTokInstagram

Embrace the Views & Bites

Ragged Branch offers stunning panoramic views, so arrive ready to soak them in. While the focus is on bourbon, light bites like hot dogs and cookies are often available, perfect for pairing with your tasting. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, live music sometimes
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
More relaxed, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Fall
Why
Pleasant weather for views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

‼️ATTENTION BOURBON LOVERS ‼️ Ragged Branch is a must visit Charlottesville, VA distillery! 🥃 #fyp#bourbontiktok#bourbonlover #raggedbranchbourbon #charlottesville #VA#hiddengem
@katiegrace1899
43 likes • 1.1K views

🎯 Book Ahead for Weekends

Reservations are highly recommended for weekend visits to secure your tasting slot. TikTokInstagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing some walking around the scenic grounds and tasting room. TikTok

Trip up to check out Ragged Branch Distillery in Charlottesville, VA . . . #raggedbranch #raggedbranchdistillery #charlottesvillevirginia #whiskey #bourbon #virginiabourbonwhiskey #oldfashioned
@rmatranga
15 likes • 1.1K views
There’s nothing quite like a bourbon margarita from @raggedbranch on a gorgeous holiday weekend! Loving this weather right now! ☀️ The next time you head to Ragged Branch, be sure to snag some of @foxhollowbaking’s delicious cookies there, too. 😋 🍪 🥃 Cheers!
chow.in.cville
0 likes • 1.3K views

🐶 Dog-Friendly Patio

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the patio, making it a great spot for pet owners. TikTokInstagram

🥩 Don't Miss the Beef

Purchase delicious, locally raised beef to take home along with your bourbon. Reddit

Not only does Ragged Branch make and serve delicious spirits, it’s also a beautiful place to spend an afternoon! Tucked away in the hills just south of Charlottesville, this distillery offers a beautiful tasting room, bar, front porch, and patio to enjoy what they’ve made. The views of the surrounding area are unmatched, and the elegant homey charm is perfect. Ragged Branch takes pride in their ...
kinsleys.out.there
24 likes • 2.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Ahead for Weekends

Reservations are highly recommended for weekend visits to secure your tasting slot. TikTokInstagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing some walking around the scenic grounds and tasting room. TikTok

🐶 Dog-Friendly Patio

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the patio, making it a great spot for pet owners. TikTokInstagram

🥩 Don't Miss the Beef

Purchase delicious, locally raised beef to take home along with your bourbon. Reddit

📱 Check for Events

They sometimes host special events, live music, or themed weekends. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(127 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Ragged Branch Distillery for its exceptional bourbon, stunning scenic views, and welcoming atmosphere. The quality of the spirits, particularly the bourbons, is frequently highlighted as a standout feature, with many calling it the best in the area. The tasting experience, including well-crafted cocktails and the option to purchase high-quality beef, adds to the overall positive impression. Some visitors note the rural location as a minor drawback, but the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive.

"Tasting in style. The fresh ingredients made in the cocktail mix were stupendous! The chef had picked fresh fruit and made a simple syrup with it flavoring it further with herbs. We always try the special drink as it includes seasonal fruit. The Bourbon Sour is also exceptional with the sour mix hand crafted by the chef with freshly squeezed juices. There are no shortcuts made here in excellence. The merch too isn’t to be missed. We love the soap!"

Kateri Event and Wedding

"Giving these guys 5 stars due to the quality of their 4 types of Bourbon (and 1 Rye whiskey) they have along with the outstanding tasting room with one of the best views in the area. This place is all about Bourbon so don't expect a kitchen, munchies or any other types of liquors (Rum, Vodka, etc.). The best you get is some water to cleanse your palette in between tastes. This place does tasting in flights of 3 so we did 2 flights and rather than repeat one of the liquors they gave us a taste of a Bourbon only available to their club. Debbie and I split on our favorite with her preferring the Wheated Bourbon and mine was the Cowboy Cut. I will say this distillery has the best Bourbon I have tasted in this area."

Rick Adkins

"Really nice place a bit off the beaten path. Ordered a flight with a great recommendation of numbers 2,3 and 4. Really enjoyed the bourbon #2 and the wheated bourbon #4. The rye #4 was excellent as well. The cocktail and mocktail were a hit too."

Wyatt Crossin

What People Like

Exceptional bourbon quality
Breathtaking scenic views
Friendly staff and atmosphere

What People Dislike

Rural location

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ragged Branch Distillery is located south of Charlottesville, VA. It's a bit off the beaten path, so using GPS is recommended. Many visitors note the scenic drive to get there. TikTokInstagram

While it's nestled in the hills, most visitors find it accessible with GPS. The journey itself is often described as beautiful. TikTokInstagram

Driving is the most common method. Consider carpooling if visiting with a group, especially if you plan on enjoying multiple tastings. TikTok

Public transportation is not readily available to reach Ragged Branch Distillery due to its rural location. A personal vehicle or rideshare is recommended. TikTok

There is ample parking available on-site for visitors. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While walk-ins are sometimes accommodated, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend tastings and to guarantee a spot. TikTokInstagram

The tasting room is typically open from 12 PM to 6 PM, but it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most current hours. Reddit

Tasting flights are generally affordably priced, offering great value for sampling their various bourbons. Specific pricing can be found on their website or by inquiring upon arrival. Instagram

Yes, you can purchase bottles of their award-winning bourbon and rye whiskey directly from the distillery. TikTokReddit

There isn't typically an admission fee to enter the grounds, but tasting flights and drinks will incur charges. Instagram

🎫 🥃 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy bourbon tastings, savor specialty bourbon cocktails, take in the scenic views, and purchase bottles and beef. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Ragged Branch is dog-friendly on their patio, making it a great spot to visit with your furry friends. TikTokInstagram

Ragged Branch specializes in bourbon and rye whiskey, with options like Wheated Bourbon, Cowboy Cut, and various aged releases. TikTokReddit

While not a full restaurant, they often offer light bites like hot dogs and cookies, and sometimes have beef for sale. InstagramReddit

The distillery boasts stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and countryside, a major highlight for many visitors. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Ragged Branch does not have a full-service restaurant. They focus on bourbon and may offer limited food items like hot dogs or cookies. Reddit

You can often purchase delicious, locally raised beef (steaks, ground beef, patties) and sometimes hot dogs or cookies. InstagramReddit

Outside food policies can vary, but it's generally best to check with the distillery directly or plan to purchase their available snacks. Instagram

Yes, they typically offer mocktails and water, ensuring options for those not drinking alcohol. TikTok

The distillery's own beef is a natural pairing. For snacks, consider items that complement the tasting notes of bourbon, like cheeses or nuts (if allowed).

📸 📸 Photography

The scenic overlooks offering panoramic views of the hills are prime photography locations. The tasting room's rustic charm also makes for great shots. TikTokInstagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the tasting room, but be mindful of other guests and staff. TikTok

While generally permitted, avoid intrusive photography that might disturb other visitors' experiences. TikTok

Visitors often capture the expansive landscape, close-ups of bourbon bottles and cocktails, and group photos enjoying the atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage policies can vary and may be restricted for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to inquire with the distillery beforehand. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ragged Branch Distillery can be a pleasant outing for families, especially if you have older children or teens. While the focus is on bourbon, the dog-friendly patio and beautiful scenic views offer a relaxed environment. TikTokInstagram Consider ordering a mocktail for younger members or those not drinking alcohol. TikTok The availability of light bites like hot dogs can also be a plus. Remember that it is a distillery, so supervise children closely and ensure they are comfortable in an adult-oriented setting.

🐶 Dog Lovers

If you're traveling with your furry best friend, Ragged Branch Distillery is a fantastic choice. Their dog-friendly patio means your pup can relax with you while you enjoy the stunning views and a tasting. TikTokInstagram Many visitors mention their dogs enjoying the experience, making it a truly inclusive outing for pet owners. Just ensure your dog is well-behaved and on a leash.

🥩 Foodies & Bourbon Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate both fine spirits and quality food, Ragged Branch offers a unique combination. You can indulge in award-winning bourbon and rye whiskey, explore their tasting flights, and savor expertly crafted bourbon cocktails. InstagramReddit Simultaneously, you have the opportunity to purchase premium, locally raised beef directly from the distillery, making it a one-stop shop for a gourmet experience. Reddit This dual offering makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to combine their passions.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Ragged Branch Bourbon

Ragged Branch Distillery is renowned for its dedication to crafting high-quality bourbon and rye whiskey. They offer a range of expressions, including a popular Wheated Bourbon, a robust Cowboy Cut, and various aged releases, some of which are aged for 7+ years and even double-oaked. TikTokReddit Visitors often praise the smoothness and complexity of their spirits, with many considering it some of the best bourbon tasted in the region. Reddit

The distillery emphasizes a hands-on approach, from sourcing ingredients to the distillation and aging process. This commitment to craft is evident in every pour. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon aficionado or new to the spirit, the tasting flights provide an excellent opportunity to explore their diverse portfolio and find a personal favorite. TikTokInstagram

An Unforgettable Tasting Experience

The tasting room at Ragged Branch is more than just a place to sample whiskey; it's an experience designed to be savored. Perched high on a 95-acre parcel, the distillery offers stunning panoramic views that complement the tasting. TikTokInstagram Visitors can opt for tasting flights, allowing them to sample multiple bourbons and rye whiskeys, or enjoy expertly crafted bourbon cocktails, with the Bourbon Margarita and Old Fashioned being frequent highlights. TikTokInstagram The use of fresh, house-made ingredients in their cocktails, including hand-squeezed juices and house-made syrups, elevates the drinking experience. Reddit

Beyond the spirits, Ragged Branch also offers a unique retail experience. You can purchase bottles of their acclaimed bourbon and rye, as well as high-quality, locally raised beef from their own cattle. Reddit This dual offering makes it a destination for both spirits and gourmet food enthusiasts. The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with the breathtaking scenery, contribute to a memorable visit that many describe as a highlight of their trip to Virginia. InstagramReddit

Beyond the Bourbon: The Scenery and More

Ragged Branch Distillery is celebrated not only for its exceptional spirits but also for its spectacular natural setting. Located in the foothills of the Ragged Mountains, the distillery offers unmatched views that create a serene and picturesque backdrop for your visit. TikTokInstagram The tasting room and outdoor seating areas are designed to maximize these vistas, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the Virginia countryside. Instagram

Adding to the appeal, Ragged Branch is a dog-friendly establishment, with a welcoming patio where canine companions can join their owners. TikTokInstagram This makes it an ideal destination for those traveling with pets. Furthermore, the distillery has a connection to local culinary delights, with mentions of delicious cookies from Fox Hollow Baking available for purchase, and even specialty cocktails featuring seasonal fruits. Instagram This blend of great whiskey, stunning views, and thoughtful amenities makes Ragged Branch a well-rounded destination. TikTok

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