The 5 Must-Know Secrets Of Cape Charles Brewing Company’s 2025 Success
Step inside the Cape Charles Brewing Company (CCBC) today, December 23, 2025, and you’ll find a vibrant, welcoming brewpub that has cemented its status as a premier destination on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. This family-owned establishment isn't just about pouring pints; it’s a culmination of a home-brewing dream that has evolved into a critically acclaimed production brewery and eatery, recently making headlines for its competitive success in the regional craft beer scene.
The company’s commitment to quality craft beer and a genuine, community-focused experience continues to attract both local enthusiasts and tourists exploring the coastal charm of Cape Charles, Virginia. The latest news, including a significant 2025 award, proves that this Eastern Shore gem is brewing some of the best beer in the Commonwealth.
The Marshall Family: Founders and Visionaries
Cape Charles Brewing Company is proudly a family-owned and operated business, a true reflection of the Virginia Eastern Shore's close-knit community spirit. The brewery's genesis began with a simple passion for home-brewing awesome beer.
- Mark Marshall: One of the two founding brothers. Mark Marshall is known for fronting the two-year endeavor that brought the brewery to life. He previously served as the Isle of Wight County Sheriff, bringing a strong sense of community and dedication to the business.
- Chris Marshall: The second founding brother. Chris Marshall joined forces with Mark to turn their home-brewing experiments into a commercial reality.
- Deborah Marshall: The brothers’ mother, Deborah Marshall, is also a key partner in the family venture, underscoring the deep family roots and local commitment of the business.
- Founding Vision: The Marshalls’ deep-seated penchant for fishing and boating around Cape Charles and the Chesapeake Bay heavily influences their beer names and overall coastal theme.
The 2025 Brewpub Experience: Award-Winning Beer and Sea-to-Fork Fare
The experience at Cape Charles Brewing Company extends far beyond the beer itself, encompassing a comfortable, rustic-chic brewpub atmosphere combined with a quality food menu. Located at 2198 Stone Road, the facility is a destination brewery that offers an authentic taste of coastal Virginia.
A Welcoming Tasting Room and Coastal Atmosphere
The CCBC tasting room is designed to be inviting, featuring a blend of tables, chairs, and a central tasting bar crafted from beautiful wood. This design fosters a relaxed, "sit and stay awhile" environment perfect for families, friends, and solo travelers. The brewery is also known for its friendly staff, a factor that greatly contributes to its welcoming reputation.
For those traveling with pets, CCBC is notably dog-friendly, often allowing well-behaved pups inside the tasting room, and frequently hosting live music events outside, adding to the festive coastal vibe.
Current Operating Hours (2025)
As of late 2025, the Cape Charles Brewing Company operates on a consistent schedule, making it easy to plan your visit:
- Sunday to Thursday: 11:30 am to 7:00 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 11:30 am to 8:00 pm
The Brewpub Menu: More Than Just Bar Snacks
While the craft beer is the main attraction, the brewpub offers a full menu of "farm/sea-to-fork fare," elevating the dining experience beyond typical brewery food. The kitchen focuses on fresh, tasty eats with a distinct Eastern Shore twist.
Popular menu items that pair perfectly with a cold brew include:
- CCBC Brewhouse Burger: A hearty staple for any beer lover.
- Fried Rockfish: A nod to the brewery's coastal location, often served as a handheld sandwich.
- Brewhouse Wings: Classic pub fare done right.
- Soft Pretzels: A perfect appetizer for sharing at the tasting bar.
The Beers That Define Cape Charles Brewing (And Its 2025 Award)
Cape Charles Brewing Company has a diverse selection of craft brews, ranging from light lagers to robust porters. Their focus on quality and flavor has recently paid off handsomely in regional competitions.
2025 Battle of the Beers Success
In a major show of competitive strength, Cape Charles Brewing Company secured 2nd place in the prestigious 2025 757 Battle of the Beers competition. This award is a significant achievement, highlighting their brewing excellence against top regional competitors. Furthermore, the brewery used this platform to support a noble cause: the Special Olympics of the Eastern Shore.
Flagship Brews and Fan Favorites
The Marshalls’ brewing expertise, which includes the guidance of a former Three Notch'd brewmaster, has resulted in a lineup of beach-worthy pours. Their most highly-rated and popular beers include:
1. Assateague Island IPA (New England/Hazy IPA)
This is arguably the brewery's flagship beer and a must-try for any craft beer aficionado. The Assateague Island IPA is a New England Style IPA (NEIPA) that boasts a 7.2% ABV. It is celebrated for its low bitterness but massive hop flavor and aroma. The juicy, citrusy profile comes from a generous "boat load" of Citra hops and Mosaic hops, delivering a smooth, hazy finish that has earned it thousands of positive ratings.
2. Cobb Island
A highly-rated brew with over 2,000 ratings on Untappd, the Cobb Island is a popular choice among regulars. It has a 6.5% ABV and 60 IBU, making it a balanced and flavorful offering.
3. Buoy 36A Red Ale
This 5.0% ABV Red Ale is named after a famous flounder fishing spot directly off Cape Charles. It’s a favorite for its smooth, caramel-colored profile and connection to local maritime tradition.
4. Puddle Pirate Porter
A darker, more robust option, the Puddle Pirate Porter is a favorite for those seeking a richer flavor profile.
5. Blood Orange PHunk
For a tart and fruit-forward experience, the Blood Orange PHunk (4% ABV) is a refreshing option, showcasing the brewery’s ability to experiment with different styles and flavors.
The Eastern Shore Destination: Why CCBC is a Must-Visit
Cape Charles Brewing Company is more than a local pub; it is a key component of the overall tourism experience on the Eastern Shore of Virginia (ESVA). Its location and quality make it a destination production brewery.
The brewery's success is deeply intertwined with the region's identity. By naming their beers after local landmarks and maritime terms—like Buoy 36A, Assateague Island, and Cobb Island—they celebrate the geography and culture of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Coast. This intentional local focus builds a strong sense of place, making a visit feel like an authentic Virginia beach experience.
Furthermore, the brewery's participation in major regional events, such as being a featured brewery at the 2025 Coastal Craft Beer Festival in Virginia Beach, ensures that the Cape Charles name continues to gain recognition across the broader Hampton Roads and Coastal Virginia areas. This visibility helps drive tourism to the small, charming town of Cape Charles.
Whether you're exploring the historic district, coming off a day of fishing, or simply looking for the best craft beer on the Eastern Shore, CCBC offers a compelling combination of award-winning brews, delicious food, and a genuinely welcoming, family-run atmosphere that makes it an essential stop in 2025.
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