Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery in Goochland County, Virginia, is planning to reopen around May 15th, 2025, after a year-long closure due to owner Lisa Reynolds Brotherton's health struggles. The brewery will operate on a much smaller scale than before, aiming for around 500 barrels annually compared to the previous 3,000.
Co-founder Farris Loutfi is assisting in the brewery's reboot. Reynolds Brotherton rejected offers to sell the brewery, wanting to keep it in the family and involve her children in the business, teaching them aspects of brewing and farming.
While some flagship beers like Nuclear Nugget IPA and Scarlet Honey IPA will return, the reopening will feature other brews such as Rosemary Saison and Strawberry Hefeweizen. Distribution will be limited, utilizing the state's recently approved self-distribution system. The brewery will also focus on on-site consumption and limited to-go sales.
The brewery's reopening comes amidst a challenging time for the craft beer industry, with more breweries closing than opening nationally in 2024. This trend has also affected the Richmond region, making Lickinghole's reopening a significant event.