How many craft distilleries are in Colorado?

In the vibrant state of Colorado, the craft distilling scene has been flourishing in recent years. With a commitment to local ingredients and innovative techniques, nearly 100 distilleries have emerged across the state. These distilleries are not just producing the traditional spirits like whiskey and vodka, but they are also pushing the boundaries of what it means to craft local liquor.

One of the aspects that sets Colorado distilleries apart is their dedication to using local ingredients. Many distilleries source their grains and botanicals from nearby farms, ensuring that the final product truly reflects the flavors of the region. This commitment to locality not only supports local farmers but also creates a unique terroir for Colorado spirits.

Furthermore, Colorado distilleries are known for their innovative approach to distilling techniques. They are not afraid to experiment with different aging methods, barrel finishes, and even unconventional ingredients. This results in a wide range of spirits that showcase the creativity and ingenuity of the local distillers.

Having had the pleasure of visiting several Colorado distilleries myself, I can attest to the passion and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. From the moment you step into the tasting room, you can feel the excitement and dedication of the distillers. They are always eager to share their knowledge and guide you through a tasting experience that highlights the unique characteristics of their spirits.

Now, let's dive into the numbers. While it is difficult to provide an exact count of the number of craft distilleries in Colorado as the industry is constantly evolving, it is estimated that there are nearly 100 distilleries in the state. These distilleries can be found in various cities and towns across Colorado, from the bustling streets of Denver to the charming mountain towns like Breckenridge and Durango.

To give you a better idea of the diversity within the Colorado distilling scene, here are a few notable distilleries that I have had the pleasure of visiting:

1. Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey – Located in Denver, Stranahan's is one of the pioneers of the Colorado craft distilling movement. They specialize in producing small-batch, handcrafted whiskey using only Colorado-grown barley. Their commitment to quality and attention to detail has earned them a loyal following.

2. Laws Whiskey House – Situated in Denver, Laws Whiskey House is known for its meticulous approach to whiskey production. They focus on every step of the process, from selecting the best grains to aging the spirit in custom barrels. The result is a lineup of award-winning whiskeys that showcase the unique flavors of Colorado.

3. Peach Street Distillers – Nestled in the town of Palisade, Peach Street Distillers is a true gem of Colorado's craft distilling scene. They are known for their innovative approach to spirits, producing everything from bourbon and gin to fruit brandies and liqueurs. Their dedication to using local ingredients is evident in the vibrant flavors of their products.

4. Woody Creek Distillers – Located in Basalt, Woody Creek Distillers is committed to producing high-quality spirits using traditional methods. They source their potatoes from nearby farms and distill them on-site to create their signature vodka. Their attention to detail and commitment to sustainability have earned them a reputation as one of Colorado's finest distilleries.