Smith Mountain Lake Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries Guide (2026)

From scenic vineyards and welcoming breweries to small-batch distilleries and other craft beverage spots, our region offers plenty to discover throughout Bedford and Franklin counties.

These locally owned businesses offer more than great drinks. They’re inviting places to gather, often featuring live music, picturesque views and a chance to experience the SML area beyond the water.

Whether you’re planning a dedicated tasting tour, looking for a relaxed way to spend a rainy day or unwinding after time on the lake, there’s no shortage of stops worth adding to your list.

Fables & Feathers Winery is a family-friendly spot in Goodview that pairs sweeping vineyard views with a creative, story-driven approach to its wines, craft beers and atmosphere. The expansive outdoor space is especially welcoming for kids and dogs, with live music and visiting food trucks adding to the relaxed, social vibe during the warmer months. The wine slushies are a popular summer treat.

Ramulose Ridge Vineyards, on the Bedford side of the lake, offers a relaxed setting with a spacious outdoor patio that makes it easy to settle in and enjoy the outstanding views. Known for its small-batch wines and popular sangria, it’s a favorite spot to gather and unwind.

Brooks Mill Winery is known for its wide selection of fruit wines made from produce grown on the family’s farm. Located off Brooks Mill Road not far from Westlake Corner, the welcoming, laid-back setting makes it an appealing stop for those looking to try something a little different. Popular choices include Dry Pear, Plum, Peach and the Black & Blue blend, along with a homemade sangria that has become a favorite among visitors.

Nearby in Forest, Burnbrae Vineyards invites guests to linger and enjoy the peaceful countryside in a charming, laid-back atmosphere. With limited indoor seating, most space is outdoors, making it an ideal spot to relax with friends, sip handcrafted wines and take in scenic vineyard views. Supervised children and dogs are welcome.

At the Meadery at Graham Ordinary, just north of Bedford, visitors will find something a little different: handcrafted meads made from honey and served in an historic setting that adds to the charm.

Rounding out the list, Peaks of Otter Winery is known for its fruit-forward wines and laid-back vibe, making it a popular stop for those looking to explore beyond traditional varietals. Located just off the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, visiting the winery offers a beautiful drive and peaceful mountain setting that pairs perfectly with a relaxed afternoon tasting.

SML Fine Wines at Westlake Corner offers a welcoming spot to explore new favorites with the help of friendly, knowledgeable owner Ryan McFeeley. Stop in for the popular “try before you buy” complimentary tastings every Friday from 4 to 7 p.m., a great way to discover new wines, learn something new and connect with fellow wine lovers.

Mariners Marketplace offers a thoughtfully curated selection of wines along with cold beer, including craft varieties. Located at Mariners Landing and accessible by car or boat, it’s a convenient stop to pick up your favorite bottle, discover something new or browse a selection of gourmet snacks perfect for pairing.

Harvest Moon Marketplace offers a charming spot to browse specialty food items, wine, craft beverages and unique gifts. The on-site pub features a cozy Irish feel, while the covered outdoor patio hosts live music on weekends year-round, making it a fun spot to gather and relax.

Read Between the Wines in Union Hall is a welcoming spot featuring a wine bar, coffee and tea, along with a wide selection of new, used and antiquarian books. With vintage charm and a cozy atmosphere, it’s a comfortable place where readers and wine lovers can relax, browse and connect.

Nick’s Penhook General Store offers a convenient spot on the south side of the lake to pick up beer and wine. You’ll also find casual bites, a full bar, Homestead Creamery ice cream and plenty of lake essentials all in one easy stop.

Craft beer lovers will need to venture a little beyond the immediate lake area, as there are currently no breweries or tap rooms located directly at Smith Mountain Lake. However, several local restaurants and bars — including Jake’s Place, Tiff’s Lakefront, Magnum Point Marina and Napoli by the Lake — offer thoughtfully curated craft beer selections, making it easy to enjoy a quality pint close to the water.

Beale’s, a longtime favorite in nearby Bedford, reopened in May 2026 under new ownership. Its return is welcome news for those who have missed the easygoing, family-friendly vibe and rotating selection of seasonal beers. With live music, trivia nights and plenty of indoor and outdoor space to relax, Beale’s remains a destination worth the short drive from the lake.

Also within easy reach, Apocalypse Ale Works in Forest is known for its small-batch brews and laid-back taproom.

Roosters Rise-N-Shine Distillery (Moneta, VA)

Roosters Rise-N-Shine Distillery at Bridgewater Plaza adds to the local lineup with a creative concept featuring craft cocktails and specialty drinks in a relaxed setting with views of the lake.

Twin Creeks Distillery in Rocky Mount continues to build a following with its handcrafted moonshine, whiskey and flavored spirits. The tasting room offers a chance to sample and learn more about the distilling process while enjoying a distinctly local experience.

Franklin County: Moonshine Capital of the World

Franklin County’s distilling roots run deep. Long known as the “Moonshine Capital of the World,” the area invites visitors to explore its colorful past through the developing Mountain Spirit Trail, which highlights historic still sites, legal tastings and Ferrum College’s museum, home to the country’s largest collection of moonshine memorabilia.

A key stop along the way is the Moonshine Explosion Museum in Rocky Mount, which tells the dramatic story of the 1930 explosion that rocked downtown when a stash of illegal liquor ignited during Prohibition. The small but fascinating museum features artifacts, photographs and exhibits that shed light on the ingenuity, risks and resilience that defined the region’s moonshine era.

For a festive way to sample a variety of wines in one place, plan to attend the annual Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival Sept. 26–27, 2026, along the scenic shoreline of Bernard’s Landing. For more than 30 years, this popular event has brought together regional wineries, local cuisine, live music and artisan vendors for a memorable fall tradition.

Wine, beer and spirits enthusiasts can also explore the Bottled in Bedford Craft Beverage Trail, which links several wineries, breweries and distilleries into an easy-to-navigate tasting experience across Bedford County’s scenic countryside and charming towns.