Inside Oregon’s Rising Craft Spirits Scene: Top 10 Distilleries to Visit in 2025
Oregon, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and lush forests, is also making a name for itself in the world of craft spirits. As we venture into 2025, the state’s distilleries bring innovative spins on traditional methods, serving up an array of beverages reflecting the very essence of Oregon’s diverse regions. This isn’t only about tasting spirits; it’s about immersing yourself in our unique blend of culture and habitat across each grain-to-glass journey.
1. Westward Whiskey Distillery
Portland offers more than just famous craft beer; at Westward Whiskey, you’ll find an acclaimed expression of the American Single Malt. This distillery, uniquely located within an urban setting, uses Northwest barley and ale yeast strains, speaking to their “brewer’s whiskey” style. Don’t miss the distillery tour, known for drawing deep connections between each sip of spirit and the Oregon surroundings.
2. Vivacity Spirits
Head to Corvallis and experience Vivacity Spirits, the brainchild of two women with a passion for vivacious, handcrafted spirits. Their signature Turkish Coffee Liqueur, infused with cardamom, uniquely intertwines local culture with global flavors. Remember to wander around the endearing historic district on Third Street after your visit.
3. Clear Creek Distillery
For over three decades, this Portland distillery has perfected the craft of fruit brandies using Oregon’s bounty, offering a true taste of the state’s orchards. If you’re visiting during pear season, you must try their exquisite Pear Brandy, each bottle carrying a whole pear!
4. Oregon Spirit Distillers
Let Bend’s high-desert atmosphere mesmerize you at Oregon Spirit Distillers, famous for its award-winning Absinthe and Gins. The desert sage used in their Wild Card Absinthe is a nod to our unique Oregon flora. Pro-tip: Combine your visit with a hike nearby at scenic Deschutes River trail.
5. Ransom Spirits
Out in Sheridan, you’ll discover Ransom Spirits, where old-world techniques meet the charm of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Their renowned Ransom Old Tom Gin is a picture-perfect ode to the state’s agricultural bounty. Visiting during grape-harvest season amplifies the charm of this place.
6. Rogue Spirits
Situated in Newport, Rogue Spirits crafts innovative beverages that reflect the adventurous spirit of Oregon. Their famous pink Spruce Gin, distilled with spruce collected from the Oregon coast, is not to be missed. Round off the excursion with a trip to the nearby Yaquina Bay Lighthouse for some superb Pacific views.
7. Freeland Spirits
One of few women-owned and -operated distilleries, Freeland Spirits in Portland uses a lush selection of botanicals from Pacific Northwest for their handcrafted spirits. The gorgeous tasting facility, designed like a greenhouse, captures Oregon’s verdant character in an urban setting.
8. Immortal Spirits & Distilling Company
Journey to the heart of Southern Oregon, and Ashland’s Immortal Spirits awaits. Known for their award-winning single malt whiskey, they uniquely incorporate locally grown grains. And, while you’re in Ashland, you mustn’t miss a play at the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival.
9. Aria Portland Dry Gin
Aria is a classic English-inspired gin with a Portland soul, right in the city’s industrial district. A perfect balance of traditional and local botanicals, Aria mirrors the city’s blend of modern energy and historic charm. Consider biking down the scenic waterfront park after your visit here.
10. Trail Distilling
First legal distillery post-Prohibition in the first city west of the Rockies, Trail Distilling is a must-visit in Oregon City. Their Trillium Gin reflects the essence of the Pacific Northwest using native botanicals. Try and sync your visit with the seasonal Farmer’s Market, just a short walk away.
Oregon’s repute in the world of craft spirits has grown to be just as vast and diverse as our beautiful state. Each distillery on this list offers a distilled essence of our regions, from the coast to the high desert, city streets to farm fields. And when you visit, you’re doing more than tasting — you’re bearing witness to the vibrant tapestry of people, places, and produce that we Oregonians hold dear.