With the hopes of encouraging more visitors to explore and experience the exceptional craft beer, wine and spirits of Coastal Virginia, the Newport News Tourism Development Office collaborated with The Vacation Channel to create “Toast the Coast,” a promotional video that showcases Coastal Virginia’s Beer, Wine and Shine Trail.
Toast the Coast Beer, Wine and Shine Trail stretches from the heart of Williamsburg to the bustling Virginia Beach Oceanfront and features 40 of the Commonwealth’s most talented wine, beer and spirit makers. The two-minute video not only promotes the beauty of several of these wineries, breweries and distilleries, but also the extraordinary care and artistry that is corked, capped and sealed into every bottle. As it’s said in the video, “Our historic shores are known for blending tradition with craftsmanship, in a sea of style all our own.”
“Toast the Coast” truly captures the sense of regional identity Coastal Virginia has adopted from the recent local and national interest expressed in the region’s craft beer, wine and spirits. Newport News Tourism Director Cindy Brouillard says, “As more independent crafters continue to open in the region, we expect our Toast the Coast Beer, Wine and Shine Trail to grow.”
Oaked barrels filled with aged whiskey, perspiring pilsners on wooden bar tops, rolling vineyards and more scenic views of the trail are featured in “Toast the Coast.” Some of the trail sites highlighted in the video include Tradition Brewing Company in Newport News, Mermaid Winery in Norfolk, Back Bay Brewing Co. in Virginia Beach, Silver Hand Meadery in Williamsburg, Ironclad Distillery Co. in Newport News, Bull Island Brewing Co. in Hampton and Wharf Hill Brewing Co. in Smithfield.
The full list of establishments is currently available online and includes the names and locations of all participating wineries, breweries and distilleries. The Newport News Tourism Office is also encouraging trail visitors to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #ToasttheCoastVA.
Grace Silipigni
Grace Silipigni is an elementary school Spanish immersion teacher based in Virginia Beach and a regular contributor to Coastal Virginia Magazine, covering a wide range of topics such as health and wellness, education and learning, food and drink, happenings and events, travel and getaways and more.
