A. Smith Bowman Distillery sits on Bowman Drive in Fredericksburg, Virginia, continuing a Virginia whiskey legacy that dates back to 1935. The Bowman family originally started distilling in Sunset Hills before moving operations to this Fredericksburg location in 1988. Named after Abraham Smith Bowman, the distillery operates as part of Sazerac Company but maintains its Virginia roots and distinct identity. The facility produces primarily bourbon and Virginia straight bourbon whiskey, utilizing Virginia’s unique climate and local ingredients. The distillery occupies a modern production facility designed specifically for whiskey making, complete with fermentation tanks, copper pot stills, and aging warehouses where barrels develop character in Virginia’s variable climate. The Bowman family’s whiskey-making story spans generations, beginning when Abram Smith Bowman started the original distillery decades ago. After changing hands and locations over the years, the current Fredericksburg operation represents both tradition and modern whiskey production techniques. The team focuses on creating distinctly Virginia bourbons that reflect the state’s agricultural heritage and climate conditions. Master distiller Brian Prewitt oversees production, bringing expertise in creating consistent, quality spirits that honor the Bowman legacy while meeting contemporary standards. Visitors to A. Smith Bowman get an inside look at active whiskey production in Virginia’s historic Fredericksburg area. The distillery offers tours that walk you through their entire process, from grain to glass, including the fermentation room where you can see active mash working and smell the sweet, yeasty aromas of bourbon in the making. The tasting room showcases their core lineup alongside limited releases and experimental batches that give whiskey enthusiasts something special to discover.