CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Powerhouse breweries Starr Hill in Crozet and Hardywood in Richmond have announced a merger of Virginia’s two top craft beer makers by volume, according to a joint announcement.

“Starr Hill has always believed in building something lasting for Virginia craft beer, and Hardywood shares that vision,” said longtime Starr Hill Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Josh Cromwell in a statement. “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.”

The two breweries actually established an operational partnership in 2025, and they announced in a release “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.”

Hardywood is the No. 1 craft brewer by volume in Virginia and Starr Hill is No. 2, according to NielsenIQ.

“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 release said. “The deal was structured as an all-equity acquisition by Hardywood, keeping Starr Hill’s ownership, leadership, team, and brand identity fully intact.”

Both brands will continue brewing at their current locations and maintain operation of their taprooms. “Employees of both organizations will continue in their existing roles following closing to prioritize operational continuity while the two organizations are thoughtfully integrated,” the statement said.

“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.”

“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,” according to the announcement.

The deal closed Oct. 1.