Every year, we’re always asked what our favorite brewery was and we never have a great answer. So here is Part 3 of our Best of 2025 series. Please visit Part 1 and Part 2 here for the rest of the awards!
Best Beer of the Year – Pen Druid Brewing (Sperryville, VA)
Pen Druid was the clear standout when it came to craftsmanship. Brewing entirely with native yeast on a wood-fired system, their spontaneous beers are as authentic as it gets. The Spontaneous Raspberry wild ale was vibrant, expressive, and unforgettable—an easy choice for Best Beer of the Year.
Most Unique Beer – Fox Hops Brewery (Elkins, WV)
Fox Hops earned this award thanks to Mountain Music, a ramp-infused beer that leaned fully into Appalachian character. Savory, bold, and wildly creative, it was one of the most memorable pours of our entire trip.
Best of Maryland – Cushwa Brewing Company (Columbia, MD)
Cushwa continues to deliver inventive beers in a spacious, group-friendly taproom. After School Snack, their PB&J-inspired beer, somehow nails nostalgia without feeling gimmicky—and the on-site pizza doesn’t hurt either.
Best of West Virginia – Weathered Ground Brewery (Ghent, WV)
Weathered Ground was the clear highlight of our West Virginia brewery stops. Housed in a massive barn with a sprawling outdoor area packed with picnic tables, it’s built for groups and long afternoons. The food menu leans comfort-forward—cheese curds, wings, and pizza—and pairs perfectly with their deep tap list.
While there’s something for everyone, the IPAs and sours really shine. Bearer of Fruit – Strawberry Lime was a standout, and Wheel’n and Dill’n delivered a bold, pickle-forward sour that was surprisingly refreshing. If you’re even curious about pickle beer, this is the place to try one.
