Hardywood and Starr Hill Join Forces in Landmark Deal, Uniting Virginia’s Premier Craft Brewers
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hardywood and Starr Hill Join Forces in Landmark Deal, Uniting Virginia’s Premier Craft Brewers
Richmond, VA and Crozet, VA – October 7, 2026
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery and Starr Hill Brewery today announced that they have closed a deal that brings together two of Virginia's pioneering independent brewers while preserving the unique brands, people, and brewing traditions that have defined each company for decades.
Building upon the success of an operational partnership established in 2025, the transaction cements the partnership between Hardywood and Starr Hill, the #1 and #2 Virginia craft brewers by volume, respectively, as reported by NielsenIQ1. By formally joining forces, the award-winning brewers can double down on their commitment to world class quality, leveraging state-of-the-art production capabilities at Hardywood West Creek and decades of food science expertise, with Hardywood’s Kate Lee presiding over day-to-day operations as COO. The deal was structured as an all equity acquisition by Hardywood, keeping Starr Hill’s ownership, leadership, team, and brand identity fully intact.
A renowned barrel-aging program orchestrated by Hardywood Brewmaster Brian Nelson, and three pilot brewhouses ranging from 3.5-barrels to 20-barrels run by some of the most creative minds in brewing, will elevate Hardywood and Starr Hill to the forefront of innovation in American craft brewing with a steady stream of taproom-exclusive releases. Nine Starr Hill and Hardywood taprooms strategically located throughout Virginia collectively draw more than 900,000 annual visits, providing an opportunity to earn lifelong fans through world-class beer, stellar service, and joyful events in a casual and inviting atmosphere. In a fiercely competitive market, this partnership positions Hardywood and Starr Hill to firmly establish themselves as the preeminent force in Virginia craft brewing.
Both Hardywood and Starr Hill will continue brewing at their current locations, operating their existing taprooms, and serving customers throughout Virginia and beyond. Employees of both organizations will continue in their existing roles following closing to prioritize operational continuity while the two organizations are thoughtfully integrated. While much will remain familiar, taproom visitors will start seeing special releases, guest taps, and merch from each sister brewery in the weeks ahead.
"This partnership reflects a shared belief in the future of independent brewing in Virginia," said Hardywood CEO Eric McKay. "Hardywood and Starr Hill each have unique histories, loyal customers, and extremely talented team members. By bringing our organizations together, we believe we can build something even stronger while preserving what makes each brewery special."
Longtime VP of Starr Hill and now CFO of the combined entity, Josh Cromwell added "Starr Hill has always believed in building something lasting for Virginia craft beer, and Hardywood shares that vision. Combining our businesses allows us to invest in the long-term success of both brands while creating new opportunities for innovation, growth, and continued investment in our people and communities."
Leadership from both organizations will work collaboratively to identify opportunities to strengthen brewing operations, hospitality, distribution, and innovation while honoring the distinct identities that have made Hardywood and Starr Hill leaders in Virginia's craft beer industry.
The transaction closed on October 1, 2026.
About Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery is a Virginia-based craft brewery known for its commitment to quality, innovation, community, and distinctly Virginia beer. From its Richmond roots, Hardywood has grown its portfolio and presence while maintaining a focus on creating memorable beer and hospitality experiences and supporting the communities it serves.
About Starr Hill Brewery
Starr Hill Brewery is one of Virginia's pioneering craft breweries, with a longstanding commitment to brewing quality beer and creating memorable experiences for its customers and communities. Through its beers, taprooms, partnerships, and involvement in Virginia's craft beer community, Starr Hill has built a distinctive brand with deep roots in the Commonwealth.
1NielsenIQ, Virginia XAOC + Convenience, 52 Weeks Through 9/5/2026