Amid the backdrop of Boulder’s scenic beauty lies a lesser-known treasure: its thriving distillery scene. While Colorado’s rich history in brewing is well-documented, the rise of craft distilleries in Boulder adds another layer to its vibrant beverage tapestry. Journey with us as we explore the best distilleries in Boulder, and touch upon a slice of Colorado’s historic distillation legacy.
Vapor Distillery
Recognized for its award-winning gins, Vapor Distillery crafts each bottle with passion and precision. Their pioneering spirit is not just in the drinks but in their innovative approach, merging traditional techniques with new ideas.
Boulder Spirits by Vapor
As a branch of Vapor Distillery, Boulder Spirits focuses on whiskey. By using pure Rocky Mountain water, they produce a range of bourbons and single malts that truly capture the essence of Boulder.
Deviant Spirits Distillery (DV8)
Known for its distinct approach, DV8 uses rice as the primary ingredient, inspired by traditional Asian spirits. This choice imparts a silky texture and unique taste to their vodka, making it a must-try.
The Legacy of Colorado’s Distilleries
While savoring the modern flavors of Boulder’s distilleries, it’s essential to tip our hats to the oldest distillery in Colorado, **Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey**. Located in Denver, Stranahan’s paved the way for craft distillation in the state. Established in the early 2000s, it isn’t just renowned as the state’s pioneer but has also set a high standard for quality and craftsmanship. Though not in Boulder, its influence permeates the spirit of every new distillery in the region.
Boulder’s distillery scene is a harmonious blend of innovation and tradition. From gin crafted with mountain botanicals to unique rice-based vodka, the city offers spirit enthusiasts a wide spectrum of flavors to explore. As you sip your way through Boulder, remember to pay homage to the trailblazers like Stranahan’s, which, though not based in Boulder, have indelibly shaped the distilling landscape of the entire state.
