There are a lot of great breweries in the Charlottesville area, but Pro Re Nata Farm Brewery is one of my (new) favorites.

Pro Re Nata Farm Brewery in Crozet, VA

This young farm brewery lies on Route 250, a quick drive from downtown Charlottesville. Its name meaning “as needed” in Latin and commonly used in medicine to describe something that heals an illness or condition, its philosophy is to provide customers with what they need after a long day of work or an active day in the nearby mountains—filling food and great craft beer.

They currently (September, 2016) have four seasonal beers on tap, in addition to their six permanent beers. When visiting craft breweries, I always recommend that you start off with a sample flight. Find out which brews you like best and have a full pint of your favorite(s) after. I generally do so myself; it’s the best way to discover new beers. I was really impressed by Pro Re Nata’s Pavlov’s Bell-gian Ale and Beans Deep Coffee Stout, for example.

Pro Re Nata Farm Brewery is housed in a former warehouse—and it shows. Its interior is industrial-looking and efficient, its brewing kettles located in plain sight, right next to the bar. It almost seems like the craft beer flows directly to the taps, which is pretty cool. In addition to the kettles and the bar, the indoor area consists of two separate seating areas and a small stage for live music. More tables and chairs dot the outdoor patio, offering nice views of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance.

Food is available from the huge 49-foot (15-meter) food truck that’s parked across the parking lot. It’s actually more of a kitchen trailer than merely a food truck. It really is big. This is where you can get classic pub food, such as burgers, nachos, fries, chicken tenders, salads and pizzas. After ordering, you can return to your seat inside or on the patio and they’ll bring your food out to you when it’s ready.

Pro Re Nata Farm Brewery is a highly recommended brewery to visit in the Charlottesville area. It’s a magnificent place to kick back after a hike in Shenandoah National Park or a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Both are only about fifteen minutes away by car.

Even though it’s a brand new brewery, they already do everything right. The food’s good, there are a few spectacular beers on tap and the location is superb. It’s one of the most promising American craft breweries I’ve visited so far and I’m convinced that this is one that you’ll hear more about in the future.

For additional information about Pro Re Nata Farm Brewery, I gladly refer to their website and their Facebook page, Twitter feed and Instagram account.

Brewery Ratings

Beer: 7/10

Setting: 9/10

Atmosphere: 7.5/10

Facilities: 8.5/10

Service: 8.5/10

Total: 40.5/50

Cheers!

Note: the beers suggested is this post may be limited batches and may not be available in the future. Check Pro Re Nata’s website or, of course, the beer menu in the taproom to see what’s on tap.