Flying Mouse Brewery

 

A little off the beaten path in rural Virginia. A little smaller taproom, but a fair amount of outside seating. The selection of beers wasn't very impressive. The staff was friendly and eager to serve. The vibe was cool and countrish.

 

I like the brewery setup much more than I liked their beer. Friendly people behind the bar with good service. The decor is nice, they go out of their way to make this place visually appealing. It's near the AT which is a plus. The number system was a little on the confusing side once you get used to all the names in craft beers. If only the beer was better this would be a darned cool place to hang out at.

 

 

While Flying Mouse Brewery was clearly founded with hikers and bikers in mind, this is a place that everyone can enjoy. A short drive north of Roanoke in Botetourt County, but just off both the AT and historic Route 76 trail, it is closest to Fincastle Vineyard. Ample indoor and outdoor seating and high ceilings make for the traditional industrial feel of a craft brewery. Like many good things, it is tucked away, so keep an eye out for the small sign (off Valley Road / State Route 779) and head down the gravel road.

I appreciated the straightforward approach to labeling their beers with a numbering system, so anyone new to craft beer can walk in and not be intimidated. To start, they have 3, 5 and 8, which represent their approximation of a kolsh, a red ale and a dark roasty porter. I’m looking forward to returning in future years when they have expanded their offerings and have a beer that goes up to 11! Not overly carbonated, their portfolio is sessionable (all around 4%) and good for someone with an active lifestyle.

Craft beer geeks will appreciate the seasonal beer (they had a nice not-overly-spiced winter ale on my initial visit) and the fact they are aging beer in used Smooth Ambler (distillery by the Greenbrier, WV airport) barrels. Plenty of merchandise for sale and I appreciated that they have a non-glass growlers for only $5 (pre-fill), just like those foldable water bottles (good for hikers/bikers).

The first brewery in Botetourt County is well executed and worth a visit. Friendly guys behind the bar and good beer in the taps. Looking forward to seeing how this place develops and returning when I can enjoy it with warmer weather!