Month: January 2019

Brewery: Basic City Beer Co.

Brewer’s Name: Jacque Landry

How long have you worked at the brewery?:[I] first toured the site with Bart  in the summer of 2014 and worked with him and Chris on designing the system, specifying equipment, planning workflow, refining the business plan and designing the initial beer menu over the next two years while the initial renovations to the building were made. [I] began full-time work on the build-out in July 2016, and we opened our doors on October 15 of the same year.

How did you get involved in brewing?: I was doing pharmacology research in the Psychiatry Dept. at Emory when I learned that a colleague across the hall made his own beer. We ended up home brewing together for three years. When my wife finished her degree in 1996, we moved to Denver so I could start professionally. In 1998, I helped open the South Street Brewery in Charlottesville where I stayed until it was sold in 2014.

Tell us something people don’t know about your brewery:  Our brew kettle defies the laws of physics, and Wendy would actually prefer you call her Lorrie.

What’s your favorite food and beer combo?: Basic City Beer Co.’s Our Daily Pils and boiled crawfish.

What’s your favorite thing to do in the Shenandoah Valley?: I ride a motorcycle to work (from Earlysville) as often as possible, often taking one of many long ways there or back.  Enjoyed a few on and off-road rides with my trail mates from Devils Backbone.

What’s the best way to spend time in the outdoors in the Shenandoah Valley?: Hiking with my daughters. It doesn’t happen nearly often enough.

Colder winter nights call for cuddling, and we have some snuggle-worthy suggestions for romantic lodging. Whether your tastes lean toward cozy and quiet or elegant and glamorous, these well-appointed lodgings all set the mood for romance and offer easy access to the area’s scenic, cultural, dining, and of course, brewery delights.

The Inn at WestShire Farms / Staunton:

For the perfect blend of Southern grace and modern-day comfort, take your sweetheart to The Inn at WestShire Farms. Tucked into farmland just north of downtown, the inn treats you to to pastoral views of rolling hills from the house and grounds. Your breakfast boasts a basket of fresh baked goods to enjoy with your coffee or tea followed by a sweet or savory farm-fresh hot breakfast such as Caprese frittata or Kentucky hot brown quiche. Choose from ten charming guest rooms and suites and plan to pamper yourselves with the special romance package that features champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, candlelight, and an extended checkout time.

Hotel Madison & Shenandoah Valley Conference Center / Harrisonburg

Set your romantic stay in Harrisonburg at the elegant Hotel Madison & Shenandoah Valley Conference Center. Your luxurious room or suite will feature a downtown or mountain view and will blend sophisticated style with relaxing comfort. Take advantage of Harrisonburg’s wealth of restaurants or dine on site in the Montpelier Restaurant & Bar, which serves Southern-inspired cuisine and room service. Feeling active? Try out the indoor pool and fitness center. For a night to remember, try the romance package, which includes valet parking, champagne, gourmet chocolates, and a delicious breakfast for two.

Iris Inn / Waynesboro

Travel to the top of the Blue Ridge to relax at the Iris Inn, a modern retreat overlooking the majesty of the Shenandoah Valley. This location is a prime destination to appreciate the tranquility of nature, but it also allows easy access to restaurants and the area’s other cultural opportunities. Mingle with fellow guests at the complementary wine and cheese hour or retreat to your room for an in-room massage and a soak in the two-person jacuzzi. Celebrate special occasions with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries in your room and watch the sun go down over the Valley. For a unique and intimate experience, try the Sip & Simmer Cabin Dinner package. You’ll savor local wine in the privacy of your cabin while putting the finishing touches on a multi-course, seasonal, chef-prepped meal.

Penthouse at the Robert E. Lee Hotel / Lexington/Rockbridge County

Take in the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and historic downtown Lexington from the penthouse at the Robert E. Lee Hotel. You’ll relish the convenience of a downtown location that’s within walking distance of museums, universities, shops and dining. The hotel, built in 1926, retains historical characteristics like high ceilings and large windows, but was fully updated with modern luxuries in 2016. Kick off your shoes and indulge yourself in a fully stocked, luxury two-bedroom, two-bath penthouse. Your stay includes a complimentary breakfast and discounted meals at Rocca Bar Ristorante.

The Inn at Meadowcroft / Augusta County

Choose from six unique guest rooms and suites at The Inn at Meadowcroft, set on 300 picturesque acres bordering a seventh-generation working farm. The Inn is situated in a fully updated 1795 log home now renovated with modern comforts but still retaining regional and historical characteristics like native stone fireplaces. Enjoy your cozy, antique-decorated room and modern bath, have a drink in the great room, and explore the terraced gardens. Check out the views of the sunset and stars, and greet the morning with a locally sourced, farm-to-table breakfast.

Stable Craft Brewing / Augusta County

If you’re looking for an overnight experience onsite at one of our taprooms, reserve a suite at Stable Craft Brewing. Suites with comfortable beds and incredible views are available for two to four people and include kitchens or kitchenettes. Stable Craft also offers a farm-fresh menu for dinner or weekend lunch.