Unveiling Oregon’s Rising Craft Spirits Scene: 10 Distilleries to Visit in 2025
Oregon, with its refined palate for locally-produced craft beverages and rich agricultural landscape, is quickly becoming a destination for artisanal spirits enthusiasts. From the verdant Willamette Valley to the high desert of Eastern Oregon, you’ll discover a vibrant tapestry of distilleries crafting everything from aromatic gins to robust whiskeys. Here are ten Oregon distilleries worth toasting to in 2025:
1. Clear Creek Distillery
Nestled in the heart of Portland, Clear Creek Distillery has been crafting spirits since the 80s. Known for their authentic Oregon pear brandy, Clear Creek utilizes fruit from the Hood River Valley for a taste that’s uniquely Oregonian. Don’t forget to grab a bottle of their Douglas Fir Brandy—it’s like sipping on a mountain hike through an Oregon forest.2. Aria Portland Dry Gin
Established in Portland’s Pearl District, Aria Portland Dry Gin is a testament to the artisanal spirit of the city. Their classic English-inspired gin has been meticulously crafted for balance, making it perfect for cocktails or on the rocks. Their tasting room combines a cozy atmosphere with knowledgeable staff—do ask for a cocktail recipe tailored to their gin!
3. Indio Spirits Distillery
Located across from the moving Pacific in Tigard, Indio Spirits boast a wide array of spirits, from whiskey to vodka to rum. Their Snake River Stampede Whiskey is a crowd favorite, with its complex, yet smooth profile. While you’re there, take a self-guided tour of their distillery and learn about their grain-to-glass process.4. Bull Run Distillery
Not far from Forest Park in Northwest Portland, Bull Run Distillery creates meticulously crafted spirits. Their Oregon Single Malt Whiskey, aged in Oregon Oak, reflects the rich, diverse flavors of our great state. Make sure to catch one of their weekend tours for a behind-the-scenes look at their process.5. Oregon Spirit Distillers
Surrounded by the beauty of Central Oregon in Bend, Oregon Spirit Distillers offers a diverse range of spirits. Their Abbot’s Table Bourbon, made from Oregon grains, is a must-try. Don’t forget to enjoy a craft cocktail on their patio overlooking the Cascade Mountains—there’s no better way to feel Oregon’s spirit.6. McMenamins Edgefield Distillery
A true Oregon institution, the McMenamins Edgefield Distillery in Troutdale is part of a sprawling historic resort which also boasts a winery, brewery, and hotel. Their Hogshead Whiskey, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak, pays homage to traditional Oregon flavors. Check out their regular live music events for a true taste of Oregon’s creative scene.7. New Deal Distillery
New Deal Distillery in the industrial heart of Southeast Portland is heralded for its artisanal vodkas and nuanced gins. Their Portland 90 Vodka, made from local grains, is soft on the palate with a hint of sweet vanilla. Join one of their cocktail making classes to infuse your drinks with some Oregon spirit.8. Eastside Distilling
On the east side of the Willamette River, Eastside Distilling crafts a variety of spirits. Their Burnside Oregon Oaked Bourbons stand out with their bold, Oregon Oak-infused flavor. Visit during their ‘Whiskey Wednesday’ for discounted tastings and cocktail specials.9. Swallowtail Spirits
Situated in the tranquil Willamette Valley, Swallowtail Spirits in Springfield has an expansive selection of vodkas, gins, and whiskeys. Their award-winning Vodka, distilled from Oregon-grown wheat, possesses a smooth yet complex profile. Enjoy a tasting flight in their laid-back lounge, and ask for the story behind their butterfly logo—it’s a delightful Oregon tale!10. Stein Distillery
Out in Eastern Oregon, Stein Distillery in Joseph is a family-run establishment. They cultivate their grain onsite, crafting from field-to-bottle. Their rye vodka has a bite as crisp as a Wallowa Mountains morning. Make it a true Oregon experience by hiking in the Wallowas during the day and warming up with Stein’s spirits in the evening.So there it is, Oregon’s spirited scene in all its glory. Oregon distilleries skillfully imbue their products with the state’s unique terroir—an experience you can both taste and see. These ten distilleries offer not just an opportunity to savor expertly crafted spirits, but to experience the genuine essence of Oregon. Here’s to your 2025 tippling tour through some of Oregon’s finest distilleries!