The Hidden Gems of Oregon’s Liquid Gold: Stories from the Rising Craft Distilleries to Visit in 2025
As the morning fog lingers over the forested hills and the aroma of pine, spruce, and sea salt blend in the crisp Oregon air, it signals the return of something quintessentially Oregonian – the stirring of the spirit in our craft distilleries. Known for pioneering craft beer and flourishing vineyards, Oregon has a new love brewing, and it’s stronger, bolder, and smoother. It’s the rise of our craft spirits.
1. Westward Whiskey
Nested in Portland’s distillery row, Westward Whiskey is no ordinary distillery. This gem follows the grain-to-glass method, starting with locally sourced barley. With every sip of their single malt whiskey, true Oregonians taste the dedication poured into every barrel – like reading a well-loved book you can’t put down. Pro tip: Grab a bite at the nearby Olympia Provisions for an Oregon-style charcuterie to pair with your whiskey.
2. Aria Portland Dry Gin
Take a detour into NW Portland and find Aria Portland Dry Gin. They distill their gin five times before infusing it with ten carefully selected botanicals. Although gin is traditionally British, Aria makes it Oregonian with an earthy taste that gives you a mouthful of the wild Oregon coast with every sip.
3. Bull Run Distillery
In the back alleys of Portland’s warehouse district lies Bull Run Distillery, known for their handcrafted, small-batch spirits. Their Oregon Single Malt Whiskey hints at the verdant Willamette Valley, where their barley is sourced. Between October and May, pair your visit with a trail hike on the nearby Forest Park to make your adventure even more special.
4. Oregon Spirit Distillers
Step into Bend’s industrial east side to find Oregon Spirit Distillers. With spirits made from 100% locally sourced grains and a unique Cask Strength Bourbon that echoes through Oregon’s high desert landscapes, it’s an experience you won’t forget. The whispers about their gin-infused cocktails should be more than enough to pique your curiosity.
5. Rolling River Spirits
At the east end of Portland’s distillery row is the family-owned Rolling River Spirits. Their handcrafted vodka is a love letter to Mount Hood’s crystal-clear water, providing the kind of pure, smooth sip that warms even the chilliest Oregon day.
6. Ransom Spirits
Tucked away in Sheridan, Ransom Spirits gives a twist to Oregon’s craft scene with their Wine Barrel Aged Gin. Their Old Tom Gin is aged in Pinot Noir barrels, creating a unique synergy of Oregon’s famed vineyards and distilleries. It’s a delicious, rebellious stroke of genius typical of our state’s spirit.
7. Crux Fermentation Project
Originally a brewery in Bend, Crux Fermentation Project took a fearless leap to craft gin and whiskey. Their Wild Rye Whiskey boasts a spicy kick that’ll remind you of the occasional extreme weather conditions in the high desert of Central Oregon.
8. Freeland Spirits
In Portland’s northwest industrial district, Freeland Spirits stands out as one of the nation’s few women-owned and -run distilleries. From their elegantly packaged gin to their bourbon, every drop tells a story of empowerment an Oregon woman feels. Don’t miss the chance to make a toast to our trailblazing ladies with their spirits.
9. Vivacity Spirits
Located in the heart of Corvallis, Vivacity Spirits captures Oregon’s vivacious spirit in its variety of organic gins and brandies, and their bestseller Turkish Coffee Liqueur — a worthy testimony to Oregon’s well-known love for coffee.
10. Clear Creek Distillery
Lastly, visit Clear Creek Distillery in Portland, where the renowned brandy and grappa house has been bottling the essence of Oregon since the late 80s. Sipping their pear brandy feels like biting into a ripe Hood River Valley pear. It’s an unmistakable taste from the very roots in the fertile Oregon soil.
In Oregon, we take pride in our creations — be it a fantastic IPA, a delicate Pinot Noir, or an earthy, full-bodied craft spirit. The rising trend of distilleries in our state is a testament to our shared love of quality, handcrafted beverages and a tribute to our beautiful land. So, go forth, explore, taste, and savor the liquid spirit of Oregon in 2025. Remember, each sip tells the stories of the land, the people, and the love we all share for this place we call home.