Du Nord Social Spirits, a distillery based in Minneapolis, was founded by Chris Montana and his wife Shanelle Montana in 2013. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and experiencing the spirits produced by Du Nord, and I can attest to the quality and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.
Chris Montana, the co-founder and owner of Du Nord, brings a unique perspective to the world of spirits. As an African American man in a predominantly white industry, he has faced numerous challenges and obstacles along the way. However, his passion for distilling and his commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive space for all have propelled Du Nord to success.
I had the opportunity to meet Chris and Shanelle during a visit to their distillery, and I was struck by their warmth and genuine love for what they do. Chris's journey into the world of spirits began with a desire to create a business that would give back to his community. He wanted to create job opportunities for people who faced barriers to employment and to support local organizations working towards social justice.
In addition to their commitment to social responsibility, the Montanas also have an unwavering dedication to producing high-quality spirits. Du Nord offers a range of products, including barreled gin, vodka, whiskey, coffee liqueur, and apple liqueur. Each spirit is carefully crafted using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, resulting in a uniquely Minnesotan flavor profile.
During my visit, I had the chance to sample their barreled gin, which had a smooth and balanced taste with hints of botanicals and a subtle oakiness from aging in barrels. The vodka, made from Minnesota-grown corn, was clean and crisp, perfect for mixing into cocktails or enjoying on its own. Their whiskey, aged in charred oak barrels, had a rich and complex flavor profile that showcased the skill and expertise of the distillers.
One of the standout spirits for me was their coffee liqueur, made in collaboration with a local coffee roaster. The combination of Du Nord's smooth vodka and the rich, aromatic coffee created a truly exceptional liqueur. It was perfect for sipping on its own or adding a unique twist to classic cocktails.
In addition to their dedication to producing exceptional spirits, the Montanas have also been actively involved in advocating for change within the industry. Chris has been a vocal advocate for increasing diversity and inclusion in the world of spirits, using his platform to raise awareness and create opportunities for underrepresented groups.
Du Nord Social Spirits is owned by Chris Montana and his wife Shanelle Montana. Their commitment to producing high-quality spirits, supporting their community, and advocating for change sets them apart in the industry. Through their passion and dedication, they have created a distillery that not only produces exceptional products but also strives to make a positive impact on the world around them.