Virginia Spirits Month

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

WHEREAS, a 2022 economic impact study found that Virginia’s distilled spirits industry had a total economic impact of more than $1.1 billion and supported over 3,000 jobs around the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, in comparison to 2022, the industry experienced growth in 2023 with a 12% increase in total sales and a 13.3% growth in bottle quantity; and

WHEREAS, the spirits industry supports local economies and farmers, as many of the Commonwealth’s distillers depend on Virginia agriculture as the foundation for raw materials, as more than 70% of the grains and fruits used are locally produced for Virginia distilled spirits; and

WHEREAS, the care and craftsmanship of the more than 122 licensed Virginia distillers with nearly 73 distillery stores with tasting rooms, helps position the Commonwealth as a culinary destination and region for high-quality distilled spirits; and

WHEREAS, enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike can enjoy a variety of distilled spirits that are produced in the Commonwealth, to include whiskey (bourbon, rye, single malt, moonshine), brandy, gin, rum, and vodka; and

WHEREAS, in addition, Virginia distillers produce several lesser-known unique spirits, such as aquavit, pastis, absinthe, and various flavored liqueurs; and

WHEREAS, Virginia distillers collaborate with local breweries, coffee roasters and restaurants to create offerings unique to Virginia; and

WHEREAS, Virginia distillers encourage the safe and responsible consumption of all alcoholic beverages; and

WHEREAS, Virginia is for Spirits Lovers, and September is recognized as Virginia Spirits Month to celebrate and promote Virginia as the Birthplace of American Spirits;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize September 2024, as SPIRITS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.

Governor of Virginia

Proclamations