Published October 29, 2026 | Written by the Mission Realty Team.
Two of Virginia’s best known craft breweries are now one company. RVAHub reported on October 7 that Hardywood and Starr Hill are officially combined following an all-equity deal that closed on October 1, 2026, and that neither brand is going away.
Here is a look at what was announced, where the breweries operate and what the deal means for neighborhoods with a strong brewery culture.
What Was Announced
The transaction was structured as an all-equity deal and closed on October 1. The combined company operates nine taprooms across Virginia. Both the Hardywood and Starr Hill names will continue, so customers should still see the beers they know on shelves and on tap.
Hardywood has production at its West Creek facility in Goochland County, in addition to its Richmond taproom. Starr Hill is based in Charlottesville. Leadership names and further details are in the RVAHub report, and each brewery’s website, including Hardywood, is the best place to check for current taproom hours.
Why Breweries Shape Neighborhoods
Breweries often anchor redevelopment. In Richmond, former industrial buildings in areas such as Scott’s Addition now hold taprooms, restaurants and apartments. Buyers who like to walk to a pint or a food truck often search for homes near these clusters. Our guide to Richmond neighborhoods where you can walk to a brewery lists areas by proximity.
For the broader story of Scott’s Addition, see our community guide and our post on the Dairy Bar demolition and 321 planned apartments.
Goochland and West Creek
The West Creek facility sits in Goochland County, a rural and suburban area west of Richmond that has seen steady residential growth. Our Goochland County guide and Goochland community page describe the housing mix, which ranges from subdivisions to larger acreage properties. For buyers who want more land, see Richmond homes with acreage.
Goochland County publishes planning information at goochlandva.us.
Our team can help you compare walkable neighborhoods, from Scott’s Addition to the Fan, and find a home that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Events and Things to Do
Breweries host many of the region’s seasonal gatherings. Check the Richmond events page, our post on the Small Business Saturday Artisan Market at Hardywood Richmond and our guide to WinterWorld at CarMax Park for upcoming plans.
Ready to look at homes? Browse current listings in the city and the surrounding counties.
Business deals like this one rarely change a street overnight, but they do show how Richmond’s craft beverage industry continues to grow. If you are planning a move, our preferred lenders can help you get ready.
Frequently asked questions
What happened between Hardywood and Starr Hill?
Hardywood acquired Starr Hill in an all-equity deal that closed on October 1, 2026, and the two are now one company.
Will the Starr Hill and Hardywood brands continue?
Yes. According to RVAHub, neither brand is going away.
How many taprooms does the combined company have?
The combined company operates nine taprooms in Virginia.
Where is Hardywood’s production facility?
Hardywood has a West Creek facility in Goochland County, in addition to its Richmond taproom.
Where is Starr Hill based?
Starr Hill is based in Charlottesville.
Which Richmond neighborhoods have the most breweries?
Scott’s Addition is the best known cluster. See our guide to neighborhoods where you can walk to a brewery.
Where can I find Hardywood Richmond events?
Check the Hardywood website and our Richmond events page for upcoming gatherings.
What is the Goochland County community like?
Goochland offers a mix of subdivisions and larger acreage homes. See our Goochland guide for details.
How can I search for homes near a brewery district?
Browse our properties page or talk with our buyer team about walkable neighborhoods.
