Beer and wine fans alike both have plenty of options for indulging in their beverage of choice in Chesapeake and the surrounding areas. Our Virginia adoption professionals like having the occasional date night at one of the many breweries and wineries within driving distance. Here are some of our favorite places to grab a flight of craft beers or do a wine tasting in the Chesapeake area:

Big Ugly Brewing

Named for their old-school brewer Bim and his 1979 VW bus, Big Ugly Brewing is one of our favorite craft beer breweries in Virginia. They opened a new location this summer, and it has a fantastic new atmosphere with live music and food trucks. But of course, the main attraction here is the wide selection of delicious craft beers brewed right on site.

Some of our favorite beers from Big Ugly Brewing include:

  • Great Bridge Special
  • Imperial Stout
  • Berliner Weisse
  • Chilly DIPA
  • Pale Ale

Smartmouth Brewing Company

Smartmouth Brewing Company is located in Norfolk, but we definitely think it’s worth the 20ish minute drive from Chesapeake if you’re a big fan of craft beer. And if you are a craft beer enthusiast in Virginia, you’ve likely already heard of Smartmouth Brewing Company. Their brewery and tasting room is simple and offers a rotation of Smartmouth beers, along with hosting food trucks.

We’re big fans of the following beers made by Smartmouth Brewing Company:

  • Alter Ego Saison
  • Murphy’s Law Amber
  • Notch 9 Double IPA
  • The Princess Oktoberfest
  • Cowcatcher Milk Stout

Back Bay’s Farmhouse Brewing Co.

Located in Virginia Beach, Back Bay’s Farmhouse Brewing Company is a newcomer to Virginia’s craft beer scene. Their brewery opened the last week of September but has already created a buzz. However, this is a great choice for both beer and wine lovers, as the company also produces wines and ciders. So even if you like craft beer and your partner prefers cider or wine, you can both have a good time at Back Bay’s.

Virginia Beach Winery

Chesapeake may be short on their own wineries, but fortunately, there are plenty of good options in Virginia Beach and other nearby towns. The Virginia Beach Winery is one of our favorites, and they offer tastings of several excellent wines for affordable prices. Best of all, they offer free wine tastings several times per week. Find your favorite from the 8 available wines in stock and pick up a bottle to bring home.

Mermaid Winery

Located in Norfolk, Mermaid Winery is another manageable drive from Chesapeake. This urban winery offers wine flights, which is a unique draw and always makes for a fun experience. They also offer delicious food options – in fact, we’re not sure whether we like the food or the wine better.