Virginia Distillery Brings American Single Malt to UK Market

Family-owned producer introduces eight whisky expressions in first UK launch

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Virginia Distillery Company has made its UK debut with the release of eight American single malt whiskies. The family-owned producer is introducing both of its core whisky ranges simultaneously, giving UK drinkers a broad view of its house style and production philosophy.

Why it matters

The launch of Virginia Distillery's American single malt whiskies in the UK market represents an expansion of the growing American single malt category beyond its domestic borders. As more U.S. distilleries gain recognition for their unique interpretations of the single malt style, shaped by regional terroir and production methods, this debut introduces British consumers to the diversity of American whisky.

The details

Founded in 2011, the Virginia Distillery Company was the vision of George Moore, an Irishman with a lifelong affinity for Scotch single malt. After his passing in 2013, his son Gareth Moore chose to carry the project forward, bringing the distillery into operation in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. The distillery works exclusively with 100% malted barley, copper pot stills, and used oak, with its identity shaped by Virginia's warm, humid climate that drives accelerated cask interaction.

  • The Virginia Distillery Company was founded in 2011.
  • George Moore, the distillery's founder, passed away in 2013.
  • The distillery began operations in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.

The players

George Moore

The Irish founder of the Virginia Distillery Company who had a lifelong affection for Scotch single malt and believed the style could be authentically reinterpreted in the United States.

Gareth Moore

The son of George Moore who chose to carry the distillery project forward after his father's passing in 2013.

The Virginia Distillery Company

A family-owned producer of American single malt whiskies, founded in 2011 and based in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The launch of Virginia Distillery's American single malt whiskies in the UK market represents an exciting expansion of the growing American single malt category beyond its domestic borders, introducing British consumers to the unique regional interpretations of this whisky style.