Silverback Distillery

9374 Rockfish Valley Highway, Afton, VA 22920

(540) 456-7070

Silverback Distillery in Afton Virgina, Nelson County, Nelson 151
Silverback Distillery in Afton Virgina, Nelson County, Nelson 151

Hours:

Monday – Thursday, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Friday 12:00 – 6:00 PM
Saturday 12:00 – 7:00 PM
Sunday 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Price Point:

$$

$$

Take Out:

Yes

Outdoor Seating:

Yes

Silverback Captures the Essence of Virginia's Burgeoning Craft Spirits Movement.

Woman-owned and backed by the ancestral wisdom of past moonshiners, Silverback Distillery is a popular destination on Route 151. Christine, the distiller, has successfully competed in international spirits competitions with her excellent liquors. There is something for everyone here, from the sweet Blackback Honey Rye to the pure Strange Monkey Gin. They have several types of bourbon available, as well as vodka. Check the events page for small-batch product releases.

Drinks

You can sample the spirits either in a tasting flight ($18) or mixed into a cocktail. Virginia law states that a distillery can only serve 3 oz per day to any individual, so choose wisely! The bar is stocked with everything for classic cocktails and innovative twists on the standards. Try the smoked old-fashioned or the s’mores cocktail ($12).

Menu

No food, but just next door, you’ll find a permanent food truck at Brewing Tree Brewery.

Pros

Can accommodate large groups with prior communication. High-quality spirits.

Cons

Kids are not allowed inside.

Alternatives

Brewing Tree Brewery, Virginia Distillery Company, Vitae Spirits Distillery

FAQ

Is the distillery affiliated with politician Denver Riggleman?

Yes, he is the husband of the owner and distiller. Mr. Riggleman has served as Congressman of the 5th District in Virginia and has run for governor under the Republican Party. After serving on several committees and authoring legislation combatting disinformation, he now identifies as an independent.

What’s up with the gorilla statue in front of this place?

The statue represents a Silverback Gorilla and a tongue-in-cheek nod to the overprotective nature of Mr. Riggleman, father of three wonderful daughters. This family-run business has quite a sense of humor!

Is there a Silverback Distillery in Pennsylvania?

Yes! There is a “sister site” in the Pocono Mountains.

Looking for Great Places to Stay
along Route 151?

When visiting the many attractions found along Route 151 in Afton Virgina, we recommend you stay at one of these incredible vacation rentals. Whether it is a boutique hotel, historic farmhouse, or a converted art gallery, you'll find the perfect place for your getaway.

Stay in historic Afton Farmhouse along Route 151 in Nelson County Virginia

Best Large House Rental

Afton Farmhouse

100+ Five-Star Reviews

This historic 1910 farmhouse has been given a thoroughly modern update that embraces its history as a cozy family dwelling. Adjacent to the former site of the Critzer family’s 19th-century Barrel Stave Factory, the Farmhouse is a throwback to a simpler time. Formerly heated by a wood stove only, it is easy to imagine the pace of rural life a century ago while staying at this beautifully intact country estate. A clean sweep of renovation in 2022 turned this rural homestead into a modern retreat.

Stay in Afton Inn, a luxury hotel along Route 151 in Nelson County Virginia

Best Luxury Boutique Hotel

Afton Inn

100+ Five-Star Reviews

One of the most popular rentals in the picturesque wine country, this 10-acre resort features a pool, two hot tubs, multiple outdoor lounge areas, romantic chair swings, three fire pits, a badminton court, and a private nature trail that meanders along the banks of a crystal-clear creek. With five luxurious suites and a premium two-bedroom villa, Afton Mountain Inn can accommodate groups as small as one person and as large as 15 people.

Stay in Afton Clubhouse along Route 151 in Nelson County Virgina

Best Interior Design

Afton Clubhouse

100+ Five-Star Reviews

Located just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway in the heart of the Route 151 wine & craft beer trail, this former art gallery features three bedrooms, a full kitchen, laundry, a huge open floor plan, and a stylish design perfect for a girls' or couples getaway. Whether you want to relax and unwind in the hot tub, prepare a special dinner in the oversized chef's kitchen, have a glass of wine at the outdoor fire pit, or enjoy shuffleboard, basketball and other indoor games, Aton Clubhouse is the perfect place to gather with friends and family.

Looking for Great Places to Stay
along Route 151?

When visiting the many attractions found along Route 151 in Afton Virgina, we recommend you stay at one of these incredible vacation rentals. Whether it is a boutique hotel, historic farmhouse, or a converted art gallery, you'll find the perfect place for your getaway.

Stay in historic Afton Farmhouse along Route 151 in Nelson County Virginia

Best Large House Rental

Afton Farmhouse

100+ Five-Star Reviews

This historic 1910 farmhouse has been given a thoroughly modern update that embraces its history as a cozy family dwelling. Adjacent to the former site of the Critzer family’s 19th-century Barrel Stave Factory, the Farmhouse is a throwback to a simpler time. Formerly heated by a wood stove only, it is easy to imagine the pace of rural life a century ago while staying at this beautifully intact country estate. A clean sweep of renovation in 2022 turned this rural homestead into a modern retreat.

Stay in Afton Inn, a luxury hotel along Route 151 in Nelson County Virginia

Best Luxury Boutique Hotel

Afton Inn

100+ Five-Star Reviews

One of the most popular rentals in the picturesque wine country, this 10-acre resort features a pool, two hot tubs, multiple outdoor lounge areas, romantic chair swings, three fire pits, a badminton court, and a private nature trail that meanders along the banks of a crystal-clear creek. With five luxurious suites and a premium two-bedroom villa, Afton Mountain Inn can accommodate groups as small as one person and as large as 15 people.

Stay in Afton Clubhouse along Route 151 in Nelson County Virgina

Best Interior Design

Afton Clubhouse

100+ Five-Star Reviews

Located just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway in the heart of the Route 151 wine & craft beer trail, this former art gallery features three bedrooms, a full kitchen, laundry, a huge open floor plan, and a stylish design perfect for a girls' or couples getaway. Whether you want to relax and unwind in the hot tub, prepare a special dinner in the oversized chef's kitchen, have a glass of wine at the outdoor fire pit, or enjoy shuffleboard, basketball and other indoor games, Aton Clubhouse is the perfect place to gather with friends and family.

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All Rights Reserved

Copyright© 2025 by Visit151.com
All Rights Reserved