Spirited Oregon: The Rising Stars of Oregon’s Craft Distilleries – Must-visits for 2025
Oregon, renowned for its vineyards and craft breweries, is also making major waves in the craft spirits world. The growing number of artisan distilleries across the state are passionately experimenting, creating top-shelf products – from whiskey to gin and everything in between – that impeccably showcase the flavors of our enigmatic locale. Here are the ten must-visit distilleries that signify Oregon’s spirited revolution.
1. Aria Portland Dry Gin
Located in the heart of the Rose City, Aria Portland Dry Gin perfectly captures the independent spirit of Portland. They’re single-minded in their focus, opting to produce only one thing: remarkably balanced, classic gin. Show up at their tasting room on NW Marshall Street on a Sunday to enjoy a quiet conversation around their finely crafted spirits and how their simplicity is indeed their strength.2. Westward Whiskey
Westward Whiskey over in Portland’s Distillery Row needs no introduction. Their meticulously produced American Single Malt Whiskey is a testament to the perfectly balanced craftsmanship. Join their whiskey masterclass led by the ever-enthusiastic distilling team, and discover how they transform locally malted barley into their award-winning whiskey.
3. Cascade Street Distillery
Located in the picturesque mountain town of Sisters, Cascade Street Distillery does a remarkable job at bottling the essence of Oregon. Famous for North Sister Vodka and South Sister Gin, the distillery tour showcases the spirit-making process and the importance of sourcing local ingredients. And remember to take home a bottle of their Broken Top Bourbon Whiskey, you’ll thank us later!4. Eastside Distilling
This groundbreaking Portland distillery has a portfolio of spirits as diverse as the city itself. Along with their craft rum series, including one infused with Oregon marionberries, Eastside Distilling is also known for their whiskey program. Try their Oregon Oak series – you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the unique flavors.5. Clear Creek Distillery
Over three decades old, Clear Creek Distillery in Hood River offers a flaunting array of eau de vie, grappa, brandy, and liqueur. Their pear brandy, featuring a whole Bartlett pear inside every bottle, is an Oregonian classic. Book their farm-to-bottle tour to appreciate the journey of Oregon fruits transforming into exquisite spirits.6. Rogue Spirits
With origins in brewing, Rogue Spirits, based in Newport, has extended its ethos to the spirits world. Make sure you try their diverse range, especially the uniquely Oregon Spruce Gin. Their waterfront distillery on the South Beach Peninsula is also a feast for the eyes, offering views as captivating as their spirits.7. McMenamins Edgefield Distillery
McMenamins Edgefield Distillery, in Troutdale, is located in a historic building offering an enchanting ambience. The distillery offers traditional spirits along with a range of experimental barrels. Give their Devil’s Bit Whiskey a go; it’s a local favorite and for good reason.8. Freeland Spirits
One of very few women-owned and -run distilleries in the world, Freeland Spirits in NW Portland screams empowerment in every drop of their handcrafted gin and bourbon. Their gin, featuring 14 different botanicals, is a sensory delight. They also offer Cocktail Classes – an activity that’s both fun and engaging.9. Trail Distilling
The first distillery in the First City west of the Mississippi since Prohibition, Trail Distilling in Oregon City is a trailblazer in the spirits scene. Sample their Trillium Gin, aged in Oregon Pinot Noir barrels, for a genuine taste of the region. They also offer Cocktail 101 classes to elevate your home bartending skills.10. New Basin Distilling Company
Firmly rooted in their Madras location, New Basin Distilling Company is a true grain-to-glass operation. Their flagship Strong Whiskey, matured in Oregon White Oak barrels, offers a delectable flavor profile. Don’t miss out on their annual “Barrel to Bottle” event where guests can fill, cork, and wax their own bottle of whiskey!Oregon’s vibrant craft distillery scene is as diverse and delightful as the state itself. Savor some of these homegrown spirits on your next trail through the state, elevating your taste buds and broadening your perspective on what Oregon truly has to offer. Here’s to a spirited journey, brimming with unforgettable experiences and an array of phenomenal flavors!