If you’re a fan of spirits, you’ll be delighted to know that Vail has quite a few distilleries that produce some of the best spirits in the country! From vodka to whiskey to gin, there’s something for everyone. The art of distillation is a fascinating one, and as a customer, it’s always great to know the story behind the spirits you’re consuming. In this blog post, with help from a Vail wine store that also sells amazing local spirits, we’ll take you on a journey through Vail’s best spirits and the distilleries that make them. So, sit back, grab your favorite drink, and enjoy the ride!

Muddy Boot Wine & Spirits: The Distillery That Started It All

Muddy Boot Wine & Spirits was the first distillery in Vail and has been around for over a decade. Their signature spirit is the Vodka 14, which is named after the altitude of the distillery’s location. The spirit is distilled 14 times to create a vodka that’s smooth and clean. Muddy Boot also produces gin, whiskey, and liqueur. Their whiskey, in particular, is noteworthy because it’s aged at high altitude, which gives it a unique flavor profile.

10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Co.: A Tribute to Vail’s Military History

Named after the 10th Mountain Division soldiers who trained in Vail during World War II, 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Co. pays homage to Vail’s rich military history. The distillery’s flagship spirit is their rye whiskey, which is aged in oak barrels and has a sweet, spicy flavor. They also produce bourbon, gin, and vodka. 10th Mountain’s distillery location is stunning, with panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains.Vail Brewing Co.: A Combination of Craft Beer and Craft Spirits

Vail Brewing Co. is a brewery and distillery hybrid, which means you can enjoy craft beer and craft spirits in the same location! The distillery produces vodka, gin, and whiskey, all of which are distilled in small batches for maximum quality. Their whiskey is aged for two years before it’s released, which contributes to its rich, complex flavor. Vail Brewing Co. also offers tours of their facility, so you can learn more about the distillation process.

808 Distillery: The Spirit of Hawaii in Vail

808 Distillery is named after the area code of Hawaii, which is where the owner, Mark Strachan, is from. The distillery’s signature spirit is their Hawaiian Moonshine, which is made from locally sourced ingredients and has a tropical flavor profile. The distillery also produces rum, gin, and vodka, all of which are crafted with the same attention to detail as the moonshine. The tasting room at 808 Distillery is cozy and welcoming, with a laid-back Hawaiian vibe.

Tin Cup Whiskey: A Whiskey That Embodies the Spirit of the West

While Tin Cup Whiskey isn’t technically a Vail distillery, it is produced in Colorado and is a beloved spirit in the Vail area. The whiskey is a blend of high-rye bourbon and a small amount of Colorado single malt whiskey, which creates a smooth, spicy flavor. Tin Cup is aged at high altitude, which gives it a distinctive taste. The whiskey is named after the mining town of Tin Cup, Colorado, which embodies the spirit of the Wild West.

There you have it, a journey through Vail’s best spirits and the distilleries that make them. Each distillery has its own unique story and flavor profile, and it’s worth giving them all a try. Whether you’re a fan of vodka, gin, whiskey, or rum, Vail’s distilleries have something for everyone. So, the next time you’re in town, be sure to stop by one (or all!) of these amazing distilleries and raise a glass to the art of distillation. Cheers!