Bold Rock Distillery at The Barrel Barn sits at 1020 Rockfish Valley Highway in Nellysford, Virginia, nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. This operation is part of Bold Rock Hard Cider’s expansion into spirits, launched by the founders who originally built their reputation crafting hard ciders in Virginia’s apple country. The distillery opened its doors in 2019 as part of Bold Rock’s broader vision to create a complete farm-to-glass experience in Nelson County. The facility operates out of The Barrel Barn, a rustic yet modern space that doubles as both production facility and tasting room, where they produce small-batch spirits including bourbon, rye whiskey, and seasonal offerings. Bold Rock’s transition from cider to spirits came naturally—founders John Washburn and Brian Shanks wanted to explore the full spectrum of fermentation and distillation, drawing on Virginia’s rich agricultural heritage. The team includes experienced distillers who’ve brought traditional techniques to this mountain setting, focusing on grain-to-glass production using locally sourced ingredients when possible. Their philosophy centers on patience and craftsmanship, aging their whiskeys in Virginia’s climate where temperature swings create unique maturation conditions. The Barrel Barn experience combines the rustic charm of Virginia’s mountain country with serious craft distilling. You’ll find yourself in a space that feels part working distillery, part mountain lodge, where copper stills gleam against reclaimed wood and stone. The tasting room overlooks the production floor, so you can watch the distilling process while sampling their latest releases, creating an authentic connection between what you’re drinking and how it’s made.
