Coppersea Distilling
About Coppersea Distilling
The Coppersea Distillery, located in New York’s Hudson Valley, is renowned for its Heritage Methods Distilling approach.
This method ensures that all Coppersea whiskies authentically represent their raw materials and the meticulous hand-crafted distilling process. The distillery is a proud founding member of the Empire Rye consortium.
Coppersea stands out as a true “grain-to-glass” farm distillery, operating on an organic 75-acre farm. It exclusively uses heirloom varieties of rye, corn, and barley, sourced from its own farm and select farms in the Hudson Valley.
This commitment to local and quality ingredients is a cornerstone of their production.
Distilling Processes at Coppersea Distilling
A significant milestone for Coppersea was in early 2012 when it became the first distillery in New York to floor malt its own grain.
This process, using exclusively malt from their own malt house, allows Coppersea to commit to 100% Hudson Valley grains without relying on industrial enzymes in their mashes.
The distillery also employs open-top fermentation, which invites ambient yeasts and microflora to impart additional terroir and seasonal variation to the mash.
This method, coupled with longer fermentation cycles, yields unique flavor components that are not found in faster, yield-driven processes.
Coppersea is among the few whisky distilleries that use direct-fired stills. This traditional method generates unique organic “pyrolysis compounds” exclusive to flame-heated whiskies, giving Coppersea’s spirits a rich mouthfeel and a balanced profile from nose-to-palate. This technique distinctly sets their whiskies apart in the market.
Furthermore, Coppersea practices low-proof barreling, barreling their spirits at 105 proof. This allows for a more balanced extraction of both water-soluble (fruity) and alcohol-soluble (vanilla and caramel) compounds from the wood.
Low-proof barreling also means minimal dilution from the barrel-proof spirit, preserving the integrity and strength of the original distillate.
The distillery’s tasting room is open to visitors on weekends, offering a chance to experience their spirits and learn more about their unique production methods.
Coppersea Distilling Tour Information and Experience
Coppersea Distilling offers an engaging tour and tasting experience at its location in New York’s Hudson Valley. Here’s a summary of what they have to offer:
Tour and Tasting Experience
Location: The distillery is situated at 239 Springtown Road, New Paltz, NY 12561.
Hours of Operation:
Friday: 2 pm – 7 pm
Saturday: 12 pm – 7 pm
Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm
Activities: Visitors can enjoy tastings in the Stillhouse, where they will be walked through Coppersea’s Heritage Methods. Additionally, there’s the option to enjoy cocktails outdoors with a view of the Shawangunk Mountains.
Reservations: No reservations are required for visiting.
Indoor & Outdoor Options: The distillery offers both indoor and outdoor tastings, including cocktails and slushies.
Contact Details: For more information, you can contact them at (914) 475-7170 or breanna@coppersea.com.
Flask & Barrel Review of Coppersea Distilling
As a seasoned whiskey collector who’s been on countless distillery tours, I’ve got to say, Coppersea Distilling really stands out. I’d easily give it a 4.7 out of 5.
First off, their approach to whiskey-making is something else. They stick to traditional methods, which, as a purist, I really appreciate. You can taste the care and history in every sip.
Their Bonticou Crag Straight Malt Rye is a standout. It’s got this bold, unique flavor that just stays with you. And the way they do their fermentation, all open-air, adds this distinct character to the whiskey that you don’t find just anywhere.
The tour itself was top-notch. The guide knew their stuff and shared insights that were new even to me.
And I’ve been around the block a few times with these tours! The setting is beautiful too – nestled right in the Hudson Valley, it’s like stepping into a postcard.
I also got a kick out of their heritage methods. Seeing them malt their own grain right there and using a direct-fired copper still – it’s like a step back in time. It adds this authentic touch that you just don’t get with more modern operations.
If there’s a downside, it’s just that some of their limited releases can be a bit hard to get your hands on. But honestly, that exclusivity makes it all the more special when you do manage to snag a bottle.
In all, Coppersea is a must-visit for any whiskey lover. Whether you’re a collector or just enjoy a good dram, there’s something really special about this place. Can’t wait to see what they come up with next!
What To Do Nearby Coppersea Distilling
If you’re planning a visit to Coppersea Distilling in New Paltz, NY, and looking for things to do nearby, you’re in for a treat. Coppersea is located at 239 Springtown Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561-3019.
For foodies, there’s a great selection of restaurants within 3 miles, like Garvan’s (1.3 mi) offering American and Irish fare, Maggie Mae’s (1.2 mi) for a brewpub experience, and Dohnut (1.8 mi) if you’re craving something sweet.
Nature and history buffs will love the area too. Historic Huguenot Street is just 2.1 miles away, perfect for a historic walk. Nature lovers can explore Mohonk Preserve and Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, both offering great outdoor experiences. And if you’re into theater, DENIZEN Theatre is only 2.5 miles away
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Coppersea Distilling?
B-Side Grill: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +18452560100. Their address is 62 Main St, New Paltz, NY 12561.
Restaurant At Apple Greens: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +18458836405. Their address is 161 South St, Highland, NY 12528.
New Nelly’s Restaurant II: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +18454192808. Their address is 235 Main St, New Paltz, NY 12561.
What hotels are near Coppersea Distilling?
Hampton Inn by Hilton New Paltz: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +18452554200. Their address is 4 S Putt Corners Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561.
Moondance Ridge Suites: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +16465122493. Their address is 55 Shivertown Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561.
Mohonk Mountain House: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +18668586646. Their address is 1000 Mountain Rest Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561.