ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — In a recent study conducted by the Virginia Spirits Board (VSB), it was found that the Commonwealth’s distillery industry generated an economic impact of more than $1.1 billion in 2022.

The study was conducted by leveraging data from an industry survey and official sources including the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, and the Virginia ABC to find the economic size of the distilling industry for statewide revenues and employment.

In 2022, there were approximately 81 licensed and revenue-generating distilleries in Virginia, producing approximately 4.37 million gallons of bottled, distilled products such as bourbon, gin, moonshine, whiskey, and liqueurs.

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Revenues across all channels and activities, distilleries generated over $275.9 million. It’s also estimated that approximately 228,500 people visited Virginia’s distilleries and spent another $63.5 million beyond distillery sales with purchases of hotel stays, restaurants, entertainment, and various other local businesses.

Along with revenues, approximately 3,081 jobs were supported and workers were paid more than $139 million in wages throughout the entire industry.

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“The Virginia spirits industry has been a growth driver for the commonwealth, having a significant impact on the entire state year after year,” said Scott Harris, Virginia Spirits Board chairman and general manager and founder of Catoctin Creek Distilling Company. “We conducted this study to get a better sense of the current Virginia spirits landscape and identify data-backed opportunities for growth. Virginia distilleries provide exceptional experiences for residents and visitors alike while supporting our economy.”

Additionally, the study looked at the impact distilleries had on local farmers who supply ingredients like grain, wheat, corn, rye, and other agricultural harvests. The data showed that Virginia’s farmers produced over $10.3 million in revenues from Virginia’s distilleries, further showing the widespread economic impact.

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“I commend Virginia’s spirits industry for its immense economic impact and pivotal role in our state’s prosperity and heritage, generating over $1.1 billion in 2022 and supporting 3,081 jobs,” said Matt Lohr, Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry for the Commonwealth of Virginia. “With 81 distilleries contributing to various sectors, including farming and hospitality, this industry is a vital aspect of our diverse economy. From grain to glass, Virginia’s spirits showcase excellence that is now competing on the international stage and providing Virginians with new and growing opportunities.”

To learn more about the VSB, visit www.virginiaspirits.org.

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