Hunter Smith has had a busy year. As owner of Champion Brewing Company, he’s grown production capacity by more than 30 percent, added three new canned beers to his lineup and expanded into North Carolina. But we didn’t want him to get a big head, so we asked the brewmaster to tout a few of his favorite Virginia craft beers that he didn’t make—and what inedibles to pair them with.
Optimal Wit
Brewery: Port City Brewing Co. (Alexandria)
Find it: Pad Thai, Firefly, Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint, Rocksalt and more
“The fruity and spicy witbier is good for drinking when in a phase of hop fatigue, or a case of Irish flu. Pair with Weezer’s Blue Album, another refreshing classic for which it’s impossible not to be in the mood.”
Bitter Valentine
Brewery: AleWerks Brewing (Williamsburg)
Find it: Whole Foods and Beer Run
“Indisputably the best Double IPA in Virginia, this big, bitter heavy- hitter is a refreshing eye-opener. Known for sporadic limited releases, I grab several bottles whenever I see it. Pair with High Country, the new heady riff-laden album from Texas metal outfit The Sword, another producer from whom I’ll always buy the freshest release.”
Vienna Lager
Brewery: Devils Backbone Brewing Company (Charlottesville)
Find it: Citizen Burger Bar, Threepenny Café, Continental Divide, Vivace and more
“One of the best-selling beers in Virginia, this malty flagship of DBB is a simple and pleasant staple that is an easy go-to. For this type of comfortable utility, I would pair this beer with the movie Goodfellas. It’s always on, and it may be familiar, but you’re in good hands.”
