Connecticut is a state that is known for its beautiful coastline, small-town charm, and rich history, but it is also becoming famous for its craft distilleries. These roadside distilleries offer visitors the opportunity to taste and buy locally produced spirits. Connecticut’s best roadside distilleries offer a range of distilled spirits that you would want to try, from whiskey and bourbon to gin and moonshine. The state has a long-standing history of distilling, and these distilleries have maintained the time-honored traditions of the craft.
The Craft of Distilling
The craft of distilling is a process that requires expertise, patience, and passion. It is a method of transforming raw ingredients, such as grains, fruits, or botanicals, into alcoholic spirits. The process involves fermenting the ingredients, distilling the product, and then aging the spirit in barrels. Each step requires precision and attention to detail, and the final product reflects the passion and experience of the distiller.
Connecticut’s Best Roadside Distilleries
Litchfield Distillery
Litchfield Distillery is located in Litchfield, CT, and is a family-owned and operated distillery that specializes in small-batch whiskey, gin, and bourbon. The distillery uses locally sourced grains, and its focus is on producing high-quality spirits using traditional distilling methods. Visitors to Litchfield Distillery can join a tour of the facility and taste various spirits, including the popular Batchers’ Bourbon.
Hartford Flavor Company
Hartford Flavor Company in Hartford, CT, is a unique distillery that specializes in herbal liqueurs, including Wild Moon Liqueurs. Wild Moon Liqueurs are handcrafted using a blend of botanicals and fresh herbs. Visitors can taste the different flavors and learn about the distillation process, including how to use the liqueurs in cocktails. The distillery also features a tasting room and offers cocktail classes.
Onyx Moonshine
Onyx Moonshine is located in East Hartford and is Connecticut’s first legal distillery since prohibition. The distillery produces a range of unaged moonshines, as well as a diverse selection of aged spirits, including bourbon, whiskey, and rum. They take pride in using locally sourced ingredients and employ a careful distilling process to create great-tasting spirits. Visitors can take a tour of the facility, enjoy tastings, and purchase bottles to take home.
Waypoint Spirits
Waypoint Spirits is a Hartford-based distillery that produces a range of spirits, including gin, vodka, and whiskey. Waypoint Spirits is a unique distillery that uses carefully selected, locally sourced ingredients to create premium spirits. The distillery offers tours, cocktail classes, and tastings, and visitors can enjoy the tasting room or purchase bottles to take home.
Fifth State Distillery
Located in Bridgeport, Fifth State Distillery is a small-batch distillery that produces a range of spirits, including vodka and gin. The distillery is unique in that it sources all its ingredients from Connecticut, and has a commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices. Visitors can try the different spirits on offer and get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the distilling process.
Conclusion
Connecticut’s best roadside distilleries offer visitors an opportunity to taste and buy locally produced spirits. These distilleries have maintained the time-honored traditions of the craft and take pride in using locally sourced ingredients. If you are looking to experience the rich history and culture of Connecticut, a visit to one of these distilleries is a must. From tasting rooms and cocktail classes to behind-the-scenes tours, these distilleries offer an unforgettable experience for any spirit enthusiast.