The Top 30 Breweries in West Virginia Ranked

West Virginia’s craft beer scene has grown fast, and this guide to the best breweries in West Virginia highlights the places locals love most. From small taprooms in mountain towns to larger breweries near the cities, each one brings its own style and character. Whether you prefer crisp lagers, bold IPAs, or smooth stouts, the state’s brewers focus on quality, community, and creativity.

This guide will help you spot the top places for fresh pours, great service, and friendly atmospheres. Perfect for travelers or locals looking to try something new, it offers a mix of well-known favorites and hidden gems worth the trip. If you’re planning a casual night out or a weekend beer route, these West Virginia breweries are a solid place to start your adventure.

#30 – Big Sandy Brewing

Big Sandy Brewing in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia focuses on creating craft beers with local character. Two of their original brews are Bubbly Blonde, a smooth ale with light floral and citrus notes, and Tegrety Session IPA, a balanced and easy-drinking beer with a touch of apricot flavor. The taproom offers a mix of house-made beers, local wines, and even non-alcoholic options like birch beer and lemonade. With its relaxed setting, friendly staff, and focus on homegrown flavors, Big Sandy Brews continues to be a favorite hangout for both residents and travelers.

#29 – Charleston Nano Brewery

Charleston Nano Brewery is a small-batch brewery in Charleston, West Virginia, known for its creative and rotating beer lineup. Two of its popular beers are Rye 2 Die IPA, a hop-forward brew with a rye twist, and Country Roads Belgian Wit, available in mango or mango-coconut flavors. The taproom features indoor seating and an outdoor biergarten where guests can bring their dogs, play board games, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. With its focus on fresh flavors and community, Charleston Nano Brewery has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors who appreciate well-crafted beer in a friendly setting.

#28 – Clendenin Brewing Co.

Clendenin Brewing Co., located in Clendenin, West Virginia, offers a unique mix of craft beer, community events, and lodging. Housed in a historic 1923 bank building, the brewery features a rotating selection of house-made beers and guest taps from regional breweries. Two popular options are Clendenin Cream Ale, a smooth and light ale with a silky finish, and Clendenin Bourbon Barrel Stout, an imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels that delivers rich flavors with a hint of oak. The brewery provides both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a comfortable spot for casual visits or special events. Clendenin Brewing Co. also hosts live music, trivia nights, and weekly bingo, creating an engaging community atmosphere. Visitors can stay in four themed Airbnb rooms on the second floor, offering a cozy lodging option. With its combination of craft beer, events, and accommodations, Clendenin Brewing Co. has become a notable destination in the Elk River region.

#27 – Boc-Hord Brewery and Bakehouse

Boc-Hord Brewery and Bakehouse in Princeton, West Virginia, combines locally brewed craft beer with freshly baked goods for a unique experience. The brewery offers a rotating selection of house-made beers, including the Golden Goose Ale, a crisp and clean blonde ale, and the Cornucopia Gose, a lightly tart beer with subtle spice notes. Guests can enjoy these beers alongside artisanal breads, pastries, and hearty dishes, creating a balanced experience for both food and drink lovers. The taproom provides a cozy atmosphere with indoor seating, outdoor options, and occasional live music, making it an inviting place to relax with friends or family. Boc-Hord has quickly become popular in the area for its commitment to quality, approachable beer styles, and welcoming environment. This combination of craft beverages and freshly prepared foods has helped Boc-Hord stand out as a notable spot for both locals and visitors exploring West Virginia’s craft beer scene.

#26 – North Branch Brewing Co.

North Branch Brewing Co. in Keyser is known for its wide mix of handcrafted beers that appeal to both new and seasoned craft drinkers. The Paddytown Red is a malty red ale with smooth caramel tones, while the Squatch Watcher brown ale brings out light toffee and nutty notes that make it an easy favorite. The brewery keeps about 14 rotating beers on tap, offering everything from crisp blondes to dark stouts. Visitors often praise the friendly atmosphere and the balance of variety and quality in each pour. North Branch Brewing Co. has become a go-to spot for those who enjoy small-town charm paired with well-made beer that reflects local taste and creativity.

#25 – Gad Dam Brewing

Gad Dam Brewing in Summersville is known for its welcoming atmosphere and a tap list that highlights smooth, approachable craft beers. Regulars often go for the Hefeweizen, which has a light, crisp taste, or the Pale Ale, known for its balanced flavor and mild hops. The brewery also rotates a few guest taps, giving visitors a chance to sample other local favorites from around West Virginia. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a comfortable spot to spend an afternoon with friends or unwind after a long day. Gad Dam Brewing has earned steady local support for keeping its focus on quality beer, friendly service, and a relaxed setting that fits perfectly with the town’s laid-back vibe.

#24 – Köerber Beer Company

Köerber Beer Company in Barboursville is quickly becoming a local favorite for its creative approach to classic beer styles. The Koerber Kolsch stands out for its clean, crisp body and smooth finish, brewed with Hallertau Blanc hops that give it a refreshing touch. Another favorite, the Hustle & Bustle Blackberry, offers a tart but balanced flavor that highlights the brewery’s skill with fruit-forward beers. Köerber Beer Company has built a strong following thanks to its friendly taproom, quality craftsmanship, and consistent variety. It’s a spot where visitors can relax, enjoy well-made beer, and get a real sense of the growing craft scene in West Virginia.

#23 – Fox Hops Brewery

Fox Hops Brewery in Elkins has become a local favorite for its handcrafted beers and inviting atmosphere. Known for small-batch brewing, this spot focuses on flavor balance and freshness in every pour. Two of its most enjoyed beers are Sami’s Saison, a farmhouse ale with a crisp and slightly fruity profile, and Mikrokosmos, a milk stout that offers rich dark chocolate and coffee flavors with a smooth finish. Each beer reflects careful attention to detail and a clear passion for quality brewing. The taproom provides a relaxed setting to enjoy these unique brews, making it a great place to unwind with friends. Fox Hops Brewery continues to grow its reputation as one of the state’s standout spots for locals and visitors seeking a genuine craft beer experience.

#22 – Old Spruce Brewing

Old Spruce Brewing, located in Snowshoe, West Virginia, offers a welcoming spot for craft beer enthusiasts. The brewery focuses on a rotating lineup of small-batch beers that highlight balanced flavors and quality brewing. Two popular selections are the West Coast IPA, known for its crisp hop bitterness and clean finish, and the Scotch Ale, which delivers a rich malt profile with a touch of caramel sweetness. The spacious brewpub includes both indoor seating and outdoor areas with fire pits, creating a relaxed setting for enjoying a fresh pint. Guests can also enjoy light fare alongside their drinks, making it a well-rounded experience. Old Spruce Brewing has earned a strong reputation among locals and visitors for its combination of flavorful beers, approachable atmosphere, and attention to quality, making it a key stop for anyone exploring West Virginia’s craft beer scene.

#21 – Fife Street Brewing

Fife Street Brewing in Charleston, West Virginia, is a community-focused brewery known for its well-crafted beers and welcoming atmosphere. Two of its popular beers are Charleston Beer, a light golden ale with easy drinkability, and Charlie West Coast IPA, featuring bold hop flavors and a smooth finish. The taproom also offers a selection of small plates and gourmet grilled cheese to complement the beers. Fife Street Brewing donates 10 percent of its profits to local charities, reinforcing its commitment to the community. Located at 180 Summers Street, the brewery provides a relaxed and friendly space for both locals and visitors to enjoy quality craft beer in downtown Charleston.

#20 – Bavarian Brothers Brewing

Bavarian Brothers Brewing, located within the Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, combines traditional German brewing with modern craft beer styles. Two of its popular beers are Mecklenburg German Pilsner, a crisp and refreshing lager, and Erwin’s Angry Ale, a robust amber ale with a balanced malt profile. The brewery features a brewpub and lounge with high ceilings and wooden beams, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy their beers in the indoor seating areas or the outdoor beer garden. The brewery is known for its focus on quality, approachable beers, and welcoming environment, making it a notable destination for craft beer enthusiasts visiting the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.

#19 – Cacapon Mountain Brewing Company

Cacapon Mountain Brewing Company, situated in the historic town of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, offers a diverse selection of craft beers in a welcoming atmosphere. Among their popular offerings are Guava Jelly, a New England IPA known for its tropical fruit flavors, and Poor Tom, a British Golden Ale with a light and malty profile. The brewery’s taproom, located in a beautifully restored textile mill, provides a cozy space for guests to enjoy their brews. Cacapon Mountain Brewing Company also hosts various events, including live music and trivia nights, enhancing the community experience.

#18 – The Peddler

The Peddler in Huntington, West Virginia, is a brewery, restaurant, and arcade offering a wide variety of craft beers and a lively atmosphere. Two popular beers are Bearded Lady Blonde Ale, a crisp and refreshing brew, and Silt Sucker Hazy IPA, known for its juicy, hazy characteristics. The brewery uses a ten-barrel system with an 80-barrel fermentation capacity, allowing for a range of ales and lagers. Alongside its beers, The Peddler serves fresh-made burgers, sandwiches, and duck fat fries. The venue also includes a rentable banquet space for events and gatherings. With its combination of flavorful beers, tasty food, and entertainment options, The Peddler has become a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy craft beer in a fun and welcoming environment.

#17 – Brew Keepers

Brew Keepers in Wheeling, West Virginia, is a craft brewery that focuses on simplicity and quality in its beers. Two of its popular offerings are Tacet Coffee Stout, known for its rich coffee flavor with sweet and creamy notes, and Highlander Coffee Stout, which blends caramel, hazelnut, and vanilla flavors using Highlander Grogg Coffee. Brew Keepers operates a taproom where visitors can enjoy these beers in a relaxed setting. The brewery is also active in the community, providing growler and crowler services for off-premise consumption and hosting events that bring beer enthusiasts together. With its focus on quality coffee-infused stouts and approachable beers, Brew Keepers has become a favorite spot for locals and visitors looking to enjoy craft beer in Wheeling.

#16 – Amani Brewing

Amani Brewing in Martinsburg, West Virginia, offers a variety of craft beers including IPAs, pale ales, and sours. Two popular beers are Amani Sun King, known for its bold hop flavor, and Amani Hazy Day Maker, a juicy, hazy IPA. The brewery also serves food items such as soft pretzel sticks, nachos, and specialty pizzas that pair well with their beers. The brewery focuses on sustainability by recycling brewing by-products and minimizing waste. Amani Brewing also hosts community events and offers private event spaces, making it a welcoming destination for locals and visitors alike who want to enjoy quality craft beer in Martinsburg.

#15 – Bad Shepherd Beer Company

Bad Shepherd Beer Company, Charleston’s oldest brewery, offers a bold and adventurous lineup of craft beers. Two standout options are The Loud, an American IPA with a strong hop character, and Shot Caller, a Belgian Pale Ale featuring mild spice and floral notes with a crisp, malty body. The brewery is also known for its barrel-aged creations and experimental sours, such as the Sour Holler series. With its combination of classic flavors and innovative brews, Bad Shepherd Beer Company has become a must-visit spot for craft beer enthusiasts looking for something new in Charleston.

#14 – Berkeley Springs Brewing Company

Berkeley Springs Brewing Company in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, is a craft brewery and brewpub known for its diverse beer offerings and community-focused atmosphere. Two popular beers are Warm Springs Pale Ale, an American Pale Ale, and Lovers Leap IPA, an American IPA. The brewpub serves a full menu featuring smoked meats, fresh sides, and house-made sauces, complementing the beer selection. Berkeley Springs Brewing Company hosts events such as trivia nights, live music, and seasonal celebrations, and provides outdoor seating and a dog-friendly environment. Its combination of approachable beers, tasty food, and a welcoming space makes it a top spot for locals and visitors exploring the craft beer scene in Berkeley Springs.

#13 – High Ground Brewing

High Ground Brewing, located in Terra Alta, West Virginia, is a veteran-owned and family-operated microbrewery known for its diverse and flavorful craft beers. Two standout offerings are Weapons Free, an Imperial IPA brewed with Galaxy, Nelson Sauvin, and Citra hops, delivering juicy citrus and light grape notes, and Coal Train, a Baltic Porter with a rich malt profile. The brewery’s taproom offers a cozy atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating, and it frequently hosts events like trivia nights and live music. High Ground Brewing also provides a limited in-house menu featuring snacks such as nachos and pretzels, and offers growler fills and 4-packs for to-go options.

#12 – Screech Owl Brewing

Screech Owl Brewing, located in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, is a family-run microbrewery known for its diverse craft beers and community-focused atmosphere. Two popular beers are Class III Whitewater IPA, which combines grapefruit and pine notes with a smooth finish, and Bold Blonde Ale, a light yet full-bodied beer with a higher-than-usual ABV. Screech Owl Brewing emphasizes sustainability and community engagement, creating a welcoming space for locals and visitors to enjoy quality craft beer. Its mix of flavorful beers and approachable dining options makes it a standout destination for anyone exploring the craft beer scene in Bruceton Mills.

#11 – Freefolk Brewery

Freefolk Brewery, located in Hico, West Virginia, is a microbrewery known for its creative and flavorful beers. Two popular beers are Fayetteville Fog and Orange Oswald, both offering unique and approachable flavors. The taproom provides indoor and outdoor seating, creating a welcoming environment for guests to enjoy their drinks. Freefolk Brewery also engages with the local community by hosting events and collaborating with nearby businesses. With its focus on quality beers and a friendly atmosphere, Freefolk Brewery has become a favorite destination for craft beer enthusiasts exploring the Hico area.

#10 – North End Tavern & Brewery

North End Tavern & Brewery in Parkersburg, West Virginia, is known for its handcrafted beers and classic pub-style atmosphere. One of its most popular beers is Roedy’s Red, an American Amber Ale with caramel malt and Cascade hops that give it a balanced, smooth taste. Another favorite is 5-Way IPA, a bold and hop-forward brew that appeals to fans of traditional American IPAs. The brewery also offers a mix of seasonal and specialty options that keep regulars coming back for new flavors. With a relaxed setting, hearty food, and a loyal following, North End Tavern & Brewery continues to be a local favorite for both its history and its consistently well-made beers.

#9 – Parkersburg Brewing Company

Parkersburg Brewing Company in Parkersburg, West Virginia, is a craft brewery known for its flavorful beers and lively taproom atmosphere. Two of its standout beers are Cell Block 304, an American Brown Ale that won gold at the 2018 World Beer Cup, and Citrus Tsunami, an IPA packed with grapefruit and citrus notes for a crisp, refreshing taste. The brewery also offers guided tours, tastings, and regular community events that bring locals and visitors together. With a mix of classic craftsmanship and creative recipes, Parkersburg Brewing Company has earned its place as one of the most respected names in West Virginia’s craft beer scene.

#8 – Abolitionist Ale Works

Abolitionist Ale Works in Charles Town, West Virginia, stands out for its inventive craft beers and lively brewpub setting. Two popular beers are Alpha Mayle IPA, featuring hop-forward notes of Citra and Simcoe, and Shenandoah Saison, brewed with Mandarina Bavaria hops and tangerine peel. The taproom hosts live music, comedy nights, and weekly rotating brews, offering something new each visit. With a strong focus on flavor experimentation and community engagement, Abolitionist Ale Works has become a go-to destination for craft beer lovers wanting creative brews in a friendly environment.

#7 – Short Story Brewing

Short Story Brewing, with locations in Rivesville, Morgantown, and Charleston, West Virginia, is a family-owned craft brewery focused on quality and creativity. Two popular beers you’ll find are Chasing Daylight IPA, known for its bright citrus and hop aroma, and Argonaut Helles Lager, praised for its crisp and clean finish. The taproom offers a friendly environment with indoor and outdoor seating, games, live entertainment, and a solid food menu. Short Story Brewing’s commitment to rotating releases and community engagement has made it a go-to destination for beer lovers across the region.

#6 – Weathered Ground Brewery

Weathered Ground Brewery in Cool Ridge, West Virginia, is known for brewing small-batch beers with local Appalachian ingredients and mountain spirit. Two standout beers from their lineup are Cool Ridge Lager, a pale lager praised for its crisp and clean flavor, and Haggard, a juicy IPA brewed with late-addition El Dorado hops. The taproom offers a welcoming space to enjoy these craft beers in a relaxed setting surrounded by the beauty of southern West Virginia. With its creative brewing and local roots, Weathered Ground Brewery continues to make an impact in the region’s craft-beer scene.

#5 – Mountain State Brewing Company

Mountain State Brewing Company in West Virginia is well-known for its craft-driven beers and welcoming taprooms across multiple locations. Two of its year-round favorites are Cold Trail Blonde Ale, a light and easy-drinking option brewed with oats and wheat, and Almost Heaven Amber Ale, which offers smooth caramel-malt notes and subtle hops. The company prides itself on using fresh mountain water from its Thomas brewhouse and offering a food menu featuring wood-fired artisan flatbreads served alongside the beer. With locations in Thomas, Morgantown, Bridgeport, and a new site in Star City, Mountain State Brewing has grown into a key spot for both locals and visitors seeking quality craft beer and a relaxed place to enjoy it.

#4 – Stumptown Ales

Stumptown Ales in Davis, West Virginia, is highly regarded for its inventive, hop-forward beers and lively taproom setting. Two of its standout offerings are Six Legged Frog IPA, celebrated for its strong hop character and smooth finish, and Holy Citra! Double IPA, packed with bold citrus and tropical notes. The taproom includes both bar and high-top seating in a relaxed environment, and guests often pack crowlers or grab cans to go. With its consistent quality and strong local presence, Stumptown Ales is frequently mentioned among the top craft‐beer destinations in the state.

#3 – Bridge Brew Works

Bridge Brew Works in Fayetteville, West Virginia offers creative craft beers with a local touch. Two popular beers are Long Point Lager, a crisp and easy-drinking lager brewed with premium German malt, and Peregrine Porter, a rich, malty porter featuring toffee and dark fruit notes. The taproom features indoor and outdoor seating with a cozy fire pit and welcomes food trucks for casual bites alongside your beer. With its mix of well-crafted beers, laid-back setting, and mountain-town vibe, Bridge Brew Works gives visitors a memorable craft beer stop near the New River Gorge.

#2 – Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company

Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company is located in Maxwelton, West Virginia, and offers an inviting taproom featuring a dozen + beers on draft and a full food menu. Two of its popular beers are Devil Anse IPA, known for its balanced citrus and tropical hop profile, and Wild Trail Pale Ale, which delivers mango, tangerine, and pine notes from Pacific-Northwest hops. The brewery also hosts live music, trivia nights, and other events that enhance its community spirit. With its vibrant mix of flavorful beers and an engaging gather-round atmosphere, Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company has made a strong mark in West Virginia’s craft-beer scene.

#1 – Big Timber Brewing

Big Timber Brewing in Elkins, West Virginia is known for its bold flavors and attention to detail in every pour. Two of its standout beers are the Porter, which features smooth notes of chocolate and roasted malt, and Logger Lager Pils, a crisp German-style pilsner with a clean, refreshing finish. The brewery also gained national attention after winning a gold medal for its Skidder Brown Ale at the 2025 World Beer Cup. With a strong mix of classic styles and experimental brews, Big Timber Brewing continues to be one of the most respected names in West Virginia’s craft beer scene.

Cheers to the Mountains: What’s Uniquely Brewing in West Virginia

The craft beer story in West Virginia started to take shape in the early 1990s when the state introduced a new brewpub license that finally allowed breweries to sell beer by the glass on-site. Before that change, breweries could only produce and package beer, with no way to serve customers directly in a taproom. That simple update opened the door for small local brewers to build community spaces where people could enjoy fresh beer made close to home.

Today, West Virginia’s brewery scene stretches from busy towns like Morgantown and Charleston to smaller mountain communities. A recent update found that dozens of breweries now have more than one taproom, showing just how much the industry has expanded statewide. What makes these breweries special is their use of local ingredients, mountain spring water, and creative styles that reflect Appalachian roots.

FAQs About West Virginia Breweries

Is it easy to open a brewery in West Virginia?

Opening a brewery requires several state licenses and permits. The brewpub license is key since it allows beer to be brewed and sold directly to customers in the same location.

What are the most common beer styles made in West Virginia?

Breweries in the state often focus on approachable styles like Pale Ales, IPAs, and Stouts, but many also create seasonal brews inspired by local flavors such as honey, berries, or maple.

Can breweries sell beer to go?

Yes, many breweries can sell beer to go in cans, bottles, or growlers if they hold the right permits under state law.

Do West Virginia breweries distribute outside the state?

Most breweries focus on local markets and their own taprooms, but a few distribute in nearby states through limited regional channels.

What makes West Virginia breweries stand out?

They often take inspiration from Appalachian nature and small-town life, using mountain water and unique local ingredients to create distinct craft beers.