Built on Big Ideas: The Evolution of Wood Ridge Farm Brewery

Where can you find a brewery, winery, tiki bar, wood-fired pizza, driving range and Wild West town all in one place? At Wood Ridge Farm Brewery, where one family's entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to think outside the box transformed a working farm into one of Nelson County's most unique agritourism destinations.

Long before Wood Ridge Farm Brewery welcomed its first visitors, owner Barry Wood was supplying barley to local breweries and distilleries along the Nelson 151 craft beverage trail. But growing the grain wasn't enough. Inspired to take the process from field to pint, he began experimenting with malting and roasting the grains and brewing his own craft beer.

In 2016, Barry opened a taproom that kept agriculture at the heart of the operation. The grains used in the brewery's beers were grown in the surrounding fields and processed in the on-site malt house and roasting facility. Even some of the spring water used for brewing came directly from the farm. Barry coined the phrase, “From Dirt to Glass,” to reflect the brewery's commitment to locally sourced ingredients and a meticulous brewing process. 

While the operation has grown substantially in the last decade, the “From Dirt to Glass” philosophy remains intact. 

In 2020, Barry hired his nephew, Matt Wood, as general manager, leveraging his hospitality experience to help guide the business's continued growth. 

The next addition came in 2022 with the opening of a driving range. “I had the idea that I’d like to golf at work, and I said to Barry, ‘This would be a great place for a driving range,’” Matt recalled. Today, golfers of all ages and skill levels can tee off while taking in sweeping mountain views. The brewery has even partnered with Ultimate Long Drive, an international long-drive competition league and recently served as the venue for its World Championship.

Most recently, Wood Ridge Farm Brewery expanded its offerings with the opening of a winery in spring 2026. Consistent with the farm's brewing philosophy, every wine is produced on-site using a combination of estate-grown and locally sourced grapes. The lineup includes crisp whites, refreshing rosés, bold reds and seasonal specialties. 

"Our creativity keeps the farm growing in new and unexpected ways,” said Matt. Much of that creativity has been brought to life by Barry, who built most of the property’s buildings and attractions using cedar sourced from the farm, including a secluded, 3-story lake front log cabin located on the property.

“We don’t know exactly where we’ll be in five years, but most of our ideas start with someone saying, ‘Hey, do you know what would be really cool to have?’ A week later, Barry is already cutting lumber,” Matt joked.

He continued, “It’s a little bit of ADD and a lot of hard work. I think Barry and I both have a hard time sitting still when there’s a new idea to pursue.”

Today, families can spend the day together at Wood Ridge Farm Brewery, each discovering something to enjoy among the scenic mountain views, seasonal attractions, delicious food and beverages and an ever-expanding lineup of events. Throughout the year, guests can look forward to the fall festival, Celtic festival, golf tournaments, live music, poker tournaments, karaoke and so much more.

Matt underscores the farm's commitment to using the space to support the community that has supported their business. “Community service is high on our list. We try to do as much as we can because strong communities are built when people support one another,” Matt said. From adaptable playgrounds designed to allow children of all abilities to play and learn safely, to community baby showers for mothers in need and stargazing events hosted in partnership with the Charlottesville Astronomical Society.

For Matt and Barry, success is measured by more than attendance records or financial results. It's about creating a place where families and friends can gather, enjoy locally crafted beverages and food, and make memories together on the farm.

Matt shared his appreciation for Farm Credit's role in helping the business grow. “Every time we have a wild idea, Farm Credit answers the call and helps us determine our next steps. They’ve been big supporters of ours, and their partnership has made our growth and expansion possible,” he said.

When asked about the future of Wood Ridge Farm Brewery, Matt emphasized his desire to build a lasting legacy. He credited much of that vision to owner Barry Wood's commitment to the farm's future. “My uncle Barry is working hard to make sure that this is something that will stay in the family,” Matt shared. “The goal for Wood Ridge Farm Brewery is to create something sustainable that can be passed down through the family while passing along the strong work ethic that built it. We want this to be something that not only supports generations but also welcomes generations and provides a place for them to gather and have fun.”