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The Wild Wolf Legacy: What Happened To Wild Wolf Brewery VA And The Rise Of Three Notch'd 151

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The question on every Virginia craft beer lover's mind has a definitive answer as of late 2025: Wild Wolf Brewing Company is permanently closed. The beloved Nellysford institution, known for its historic schoolhouse setting and sprawling biergarten, has officially transitioned ownership, marking the end of a significant chapter on the famed Route 151 trail. This update is crucial for anyone planning a visit to the Blue Ridge Mountains, as the iconic location has been acquired by one of the region's largest and most dynamic breweries, promising a fresh, new experience while honoring the site’s storied past. The facility, which was a cornerstone of the Nelson County craft beer scene for over a decade, is now the newest outpost for Three Notch'd Brewing Company. Rebranded as the Three Notch'd 151 Brewery, Distillery & Craft Kitchen, the new owners have wasted no time in remodeling and reopening the 13-acre property. While the Wild Wolf name is gone, the spirit of innovation and community that defined the original brewery lives on under a new banner, focusing on an expanded offering that includes a full distillery and a locally-sourced, beer-infused culinary program.

The Rise and Closure of Wild Wolf Brewing Company

The story of Wild Wolf Brewing Company is one of passion, history, and a deep commitment to the Virginia craft beer movement. Founded by Mary Wolf and her son, Brewmaster Danny Wolf, the brewery quickly became a destination spot in the heart of the Rockfish Valley.

Wild Wolf Brewery: A Brief Biography & Timeline

  • Founders: Mary Wolf (Business Manager) and Danny Wolf (Brewmaster).
  • Year Founded: November 2011.
  • Original Location: 2461 Rockfish Valley Highway, Nellysford, VA 22958 (Nelson County, Route 151).
  • Signature Setting: The main restaurant was housed in a beautifully restored 100-year-old former schoolhouse, the historic Rockfish Valley School, which operated from 1910 to 1939.
  • Key Features: A massive, dog-friendly shaded biergarten, a large koi pond, and 13 acres of scenic outdoor space.
  • Accolades: Virginia Green Travel Star Green Brewery of the Year (2018); winner of top honors at the 2015 Winter United States Beer Tasting Championship for its American Stout.
  • Beers of Note (Legacy): Alpha Ale (American Pale Ale), Amber Time, American Stout, and "A Beer To End All Wars" (American IPA).
  • Closure Event: Permanently closed and sold to Three Notch'd Brewing Company.
Wild Wolf's commitment to sustainability was evident in its operations, earning it the prestigious Virginia Green Brewery of the Year award. The brewery was more than just a place to grab a pint; it was an adult playground featuring a blend of rustic charm and industrial elements, perfectly situated on the Nelson 151 Wine and Beer Trail. The brewery's Nellysford location was its flagship, though it did attempt an expansion into Charlottesville. That downtown Charlottesville location, situated in the Glass Building, closed in early 2020, just seven months after opening, signaling the start of challenges for the brand. Despite this, the Nellysford brewery continued to be a beloved destination until its final sale.

The Beers That Defined the Wild Wolf Legacy

The legacy of Wild Wolf Brewing Company is inextricably linked to its diverse and often adventurous beer lineup. Brewmaster Danny Wolf, who honed his skills at the prestigious Siebel Institute, crafted a range of beers that appealed to both casual drinkers and serious craft enthusiasts. One of their most lauded brews was their American Stout, which brought home a top honor from the 2015 Winter United States Beer Tasting Championship. This award underscored the brewery's quality and its ability to compete on a national level. Other fan favorites included the hop-forward "A Beer To End All Wars" IPA and the easy-drinking Alpha Ale, an American Pale Ale. The brewery’s location in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains made their shaded biergarten the perfect spot to enjoy these brews, creating a memorable experience that helped define the early success of the Route 151 craft beer scene. The atmosphere—part historic schoolhouse, part modern brewpub—was as much a draw as the beer itself.

The New Era: Three Notch'd 151 Brewery, Distillery & Craft Kitchen

The closure of Wild Wolf was quickly followed by the announcement that the entire 13-acre facility, including the production brewery and iconic buildings, had been acquired by Charlottesville-based Three Notch'd Brewing Company. This acquisition is a massive development, securing the location's future as a premier craft beverage destination. The new entity, now operational as Three Notch'd 151, is more than just a rebranding; it’s an expansion of the site's offerings. Three Notch'd, already one of Virginia's largest independent craft beer companies, has transformed the location into a multi-faceted venue: a brewery, a distillery, and a craft kitchen. The new sign has been installed, confirming the transition and the venue's dedication to its famous location on Route 151.

What to Expect at Three Notch'd 151

The new concept leverages the beautiful existing infrastructure—the historic schoolhouse and the expansive outdoor spaces—while introducing exciting new elements:
  • Expanded Offerings: Beyond the signature Three Notch'd beers, the new facility now features a full-service distillery, allowing for the production and tasting of craft spirits, adding a new dimension to the Nelson County beverage scene.
  • The Craft Kitchen: The culinary program has been elevated to a "Craft Kitchen," specializing in locally-sourced, beer-infused dishes. This focus on farm-to-table cuisine is designed to perfectly complement the beer and spirits menu.
  • Events and Atmosphere: The venue is already hosting regular events, including Saturday and Sunday Brunch, indicating a full and vibrant operational status. The rustic charm and picturesque setting, perfect for weddings and large gatherings, remains a key feature.
  • Location Continuity: The property remains a vital stop on the Nelson 151 trail, nestled near other famous destinations in the Rockfish Valley.
The transition from Wild Wolf Brewing Company to the Three Notch'd 151 Brewery, Distillery & Craft Kitchen represents a classic evolution in the craft beverage industry. While the Wild Wolf name is now a cherished piece of Virginia beer history, its physical home continues to thrive, ensuring that the beautiful space in Nellysford remains a must-visit destination for those exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains and the legendary Route 151. The new chapter promises a more diverse, comprehensive craft experience for all visitors.
The Wild Wolf Legacy: What Happened to Wild Wolf Brewery VA and the Rise of Three Notch'd 151
wild wolf brewery va
wild wolf brewery va

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