Ragged Branch Logo

Ragged Branch Distillery

Region
  • USA, Virginia
Awards
  • New Orleans Spirits Competition 2022
Website
  • https://raggedbranch.com/
Phone Number
  • +14342442600
Address
  • 1015 Taylors Gap Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903

Ragged Branch bourbon whiskey sign with business hours.

History of Ragged Branch Distillery

 

The Inception of a Bourbon Legacy

Ragged Branch Distillery, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Charlottesville, VA, is not just a distillery; it’s a testament to tradition, quality, and the pursuit of perfection in bourbon-making. The distillery’s journey began under the guidance of the legendary Master Distiller, Dave Pickerell, whose expertise laid the foundation for Ragged Branch’s distinctive bourbon process.

Crafting the Signature Spirit

At the heart of Ragged Branch is its commitment to authenticity and quality. Every drop of bourbon is a product of meticulously sourced grain, milled and mashed-in daily at the distillery. The process, bestowed by Dave Pickerell, ensures that each bottle of Ragged Branch bourbon is a reflection of the distillery’s dedication to its craft.

The Bourbon Portfolio

Ragged Branch takes pride in its range of bourbons, each with its unique character and flavor profile. The distillery offers:

  • Signature Bourbon Bottled in Bond: A testament to the classic bourbon-making tradition, offering a rich and robust flavor.
  • Wheated Bourbon Bottled in Bond: A smoother, more mellow variant, with the wheat imparting a softer and more nuanced taste.

Awards Won by Ragged Branch Distillery

  • New Orleans Spirits Competition 2022: Ragged Branch Distillery secured a resounding victory at this esteemed competition, winning “Best of Category” awards for three of its bottled-in-bond whiskeys:
    • Ragged Branch Signature Bourbon – Bottled in Bond: Best of Category Bourbon, Bottled in Bond.
    • Ragged Branch Wheated Bourbon – Bottled in Bond: Best of Category, Wheated Bourbon, Bottled in Bond.
    • Ragged Branch Straight Rye – Bottled in Bond: Best of Category, Straight Rye Whiskey. These accolades underscore the distillery’s commitment to craftsmanship and the quality of its artisanal spirits​​.
  • Virginia Bourbon Invitational: Ragged Branch Distillery’s Straight Bourbon – Honey Barrel Finished received one of the top awards at this prestigious event. This exceptional bourbon is aged for more than five years, finished in a barrel previously used to store honey, and bottled at barrel proof. It’s a popular and highly sought-after limited release, available exclusively at the distillery’s gift shop in Charlottesville​​​​.

Ragged Branch Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Ragged Branch Distillery, set against the serene backdrop of Central Virginia’s countryside, is more than just a distillery. It’s a gathering place for family, friends, and whiskey lovers.

The distillery’s tasting room offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere where you can unwind and indulge in some of the finest whiskey offerings. The staff, known for their knowledge and hospitality, are there to guide you through the distinct types of whiskey produced at Ragged Branch, helping you appreciate the subtle nuances of flavor and aroma that make each whiskey unique.

Tasting Room Experience

The tasting room at Ragged Branch is where the spirit of the distillery comes to life. Here, you can:

  • Sample a variety of premium whiskeys, each with its own unique character.
  • Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails that showcase the versatility of Ragged Branch’s spirits.
  • Purchase bottles of your favorite Ragged Branch whiskey to enjoy at home.
  • Explore the distillery’s range of beef products, a testament to their commitment to quality and tradition.

Visiting Hours and Details

  • Tasting Room Hours: Open Friday through Sunday, from 12 pm to 6 pm.
  • Availability: While the tasting room is closed from Monday to Thursday, the distillery remains open for bottle and beef sales, ensuring that you can always take a piece of Ragged Branch home with you.

Flask & Barrel Review of Ragged Branch Distillery

I’ve been around the block a few times when it comes to distillery tours, but let me tell you, Ragged Branch Distillery is something else. I’d give it a solid 4.7 out of 5, no question about it.

First off, the setting is just picture-perfect. Nestled in the heart of Central Virginia’s countryside, this place has got that laid-back, rustic vibe down pat. It’s the kind of spot where you can really kick back and soak in the good vibes.

Now, onto the main event – the whiskey. As a collector, I’ve got a pretty keen palate, and Ragged Branch didn’t disappoint. Their tasting room experience is top-notch.

The staff know their stuff and are super welcoming, walking you through each whiskey with stories and details that make each sip that much better. And the flavors? Spot on. Each whiskey has its own personality, and you can really taste the care and tradition that goes into every bottle.

The tasting room itself is the cherry on top. It’s cozy, inviting, and just the right kind of place to while away an afternoon with good drinks and better company. Plus, the fact that you can snag a bottle (or a few) of your favorite whiskey and some of their quality beef products to take home? Yeah, that’s a win in my book.

If I had to nitpick, I’d say I wish the tasting room was open a few more days during the week. But honestly, that’s just me wanting more of a good thing. Ragged Branch Distillery is a gem – a must-visit for any whiskey lover or anyone looking to get a real taste of what Virginia’s got to offer. Trust me, you won’t leave disappointed.

What To Do Nearby Ragged Branch Distillery

  • Monticello (Approx. 13.2 miles from Ragged Branch Distillery): Explore the historic home of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. The estate offers a glimpse into Jefferson’s life, his love for gardening, and his innovative designs, including the octagonal Dome room​​.
  • Les Yeux du Monde Art Gallery (Approx. 11.1 miles from Ragged Branch Distillery): An ultra-modern art gallery and studio set on farmland, displaying works from top-shelf painters and photographers. A visit here promises an encounter with high-quality art in a serene, rural setting​​.
  • Monticello Wine Trail (Various locations around Charlottesville): Inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s vision, the trail guides you to nearly 40 wineries in the area. It’s not just about the tastings; the journey through the picturesque landscape is equally enchanting​​.
  • Gabriele Rausse Winery (Approx. 9.4 miles from Ragged Branch Distillery): Known as the “Father of the Modern Virginia Wine Industry,” Gabriele Rausse’s winery specializes in Nobiloa grapes from Piedmont, Italy. A visit here offers a chance to taste exceptional wines in a scenic vineyard setting​​.
  • Vitae Spirits Distillery (Approx. 9.8 miles from Ragged Branch Distillery): A small, award-winning craft distillery in Charlottesville. Known for its high-quality, innovative spirits like vodka, gin, whiskey, and rum, Vitae Spirits promises a delightful tasting experience​​.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Ragged Branch Distillery?

  • Fiesta Azteca Tap-House & Mexican Kitchen: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 325 Four Leaf Ln # 8, Charlottesville, VA 22903.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +14348232040. 
  • The Virginian: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 1521 University Ave, Charlottesville, VA 22903.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +14349844667. 
  • Aromas Cafe and Catering: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 900 Natural Resources Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22903.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +14342442486.

What hotels are near Ragged Branch Distillery?

  • Boar’s Head Resort: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 200 Ednam Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22903.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +18446118066. 
  • Kimpton The Forum Hotel: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 540 Massie Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +14343652600. 
  • The Crossroads Inn: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 5010 Plank Rd, North Garden, VA 22959.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +14342608792.