Oregon Spirit Distillers logo with wheat icons.

Oregon Spirit Distillers

Region
  • USA, Oregon
Awards
  • Awards Won by Oregon Spirit Distillers ( Oregon Spirit Absinthe, Oregon Spirit Dry Gin, Oregon Spirit Vodka)
Website
  • https://oregonspiritdistillers.com/
Phone Number
  • +15413820002
Address
  • 740 NE 1st St, Bend, OR 97701, United States

Colorful distillery mural with nature and beverage elements.

 

History of Oregon Spirit Distillers 

 

Founding and Philosophy

Oregon Spirit Distillers was founded in 2009 by Brad and Kathy Irwin in Bend, Oregon. The distillery’s creation stemmed from Brad’s passion for distilling and his curiosity about the different styles of whiskey and what makes each unique. This passion led to the establishment of the first production still in Central Oregon, laying the foundation for a distillery that prides itself on local craftsmanship and the independent spirit of Oregon.

Commitment to Local Agriculture

From its inception, Oregon Spirit Distillers has been committed to using locally sourced grains. The distillery has built a reputation for its award-winning whiskey, created from grain grown in the high desert region of Oregon and water from the Cascade Mountains. This commitment extends to all aspects of their production, reflecting a deep respect for Oregon’s agricultural heritage.

Expansion and Growth

The distillery expanded significantly in 2014, moving to a larger facility with increased production and barrel storage space. This expansion included the addition of the Barrel Thief Lounge, a bar and restaurant that offers a view of the production facility. This allowed the distillery to enhance its visitor experience while continuing to focus on producing high-quality spirits.

Under the guidance of the Irwins, Oregon Spirit Distillers has grown from a small, local operation to a distillery with a national presence. They have managed to maintain their focus on producing authentic, bold, and high-integrity whiskeys. Looking ahead, the distillery plans to continue its growth, focusing on its American Whiskeys and expanding its reach in the national market.

Awards Won by Oregon Spirit Distillers 

Oregon Spirit Absinthe:

  • This Parisian Style absinthe has been recognized for its well-balanced blend of botanicals, including roman wormwood, fennel, and anise.

Oregon Spirit Dry Gin:

  • The distillery’s high desert-born dry gin has been celebrated for its beautifully balanced and botanically forward profile, which features juniper, clean citrus, and hints of pine.

Oregon Spirit Vodka:

  • Their 100% wheat vodka is known for its smoothness and clarity, with a subtle sweetness on the finish.

Straight American Bourbon Whiskey:

  • Aged for four years in new American white oak barrels, this bourbon, at 94 proof, has a hint of spicy cinnamon twist, making it one of their most notable spirits.

Oregon Spirit Distillers  Tour Information and Experience

Distillery and Tasting Room

  • The heart of Oregon Spirit Distillers is its distillery and tasting room, located in beautiful Bend. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the production facility, where they will learn about the distilling process and see where the award-winning whiskeys, gins, and vodkas are made.

Tasting Flights and Cocktails

  • In addition to the tour, guests have the opportunity to sample the spirits through tasting flights and mini cocktails. This part of the experience allows visitors to appreciate the unique flavors and qualities of each spirit produced by the distillery.

Tour Schedule and Availability

  • The distillery is open for visitors from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. However, it’s always a good idea to check their website or call ahead to confirm the availability of tours and any special events or offerings they might have during your visit.

Flask & Barrel Review of Oregon Spirit Distillers 

As a seasoned whiskey collector who’s been on numerous distillery tours, I recently had the pleasure of visiting Oregon Spirit Distillers in Bend. Let me tell you, it’s an experience worth sharing.

First off, the location is just perfect. Nestled in Bend, Oregon, it’s got this authentic, welcoming vibe that sets the stage for an amazing tour. The distillery’s setup is impressive, clearly showcasing their commitment to craft distilling. You can tell they take pride in their work, from sourcing local grains to their meticulous distilling process.

The tour itself was a highlight. It wasn’t just informative; it was engaging and interactive. The guide had a deep knowledge of the craft, and their passion for whiskey was contagious. As someone who’s seen a lot of distilleries, I appreciated the little details they shared about their production methods and the unique character of their spirits.

Now, the tasting – that’s where Oregon Spirit Distillers truly shines. Their range of whiskeys, from the Straight American Bourbon to the Wheat and Rye, each had its own distinct personality. The C.W. Irwin Bourbon stood out with its smooth yet complex profile. And let’s not forget their gin and vodka – they were equally impressive.

The only reason I’m holding back from a full 5-star rating is that I felt the tour could have delved a bit deeper into the aging process, which, as a collector, I find particularly fascinating. However, this is a minor point in an otherwise outstanding experience.

What To Do Nearby Oregon Spirit Distillers 

Downtown Bend: Just a short drive from Oregon Spirit Distillers, Downtown Bend offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Here, you can explore unique boutiques, enjoy local cuisine, or relax in one of the many cafes.

Deschutes River: The Deschutes River is a hub for outdoor activities, including fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The river trails offer scenic views and are perfect for a leisurely walk or a more adventurous outdoor experience.

Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint: Located about 3 miles from the distillery, this is a great spot for hiking and offers panoramic views of Bend and the surrounding areas.

High Desert Museum: Approximately 7 miles south of Oregon Spirit Distillers, this museum offers an insightful look into the history, culture, art, and wildlife of the high desert region.

Mt. Bachelor Ski Area: About 22 miles away, it’s a prime destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, offering some of the best slopes in Oregon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Oregon Spirit Distillers?

Bend Burger Company: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For more information, you can reach out to them at +15413821914. Their address is 1939 NE 3rd St, Bend, OR.

Cuban Kitchen: This restaurant is rated 4.8 stars on Google Maps. They are located at 1600 NE 3rd St, Bend, OR; you can contact them at +15413821358.

Manzanita Grill Bend LLC: It has a perfect rating of 5.0 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 1125 NE 2nd St, Bend, OR, you can contact them at +15418489438.

What hotels are near Oregon Spirit Distillers?

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bend: Rated 4.1 stars, you can call them at +15413179292. They are at 300 NW Franklin Ave, Bend, OR 97701, United States.

Waypoint Hotel: This 3-star hotel is rated 4.0 stars and offers casual accommodations with an indoor pool and gym. You can call them at +15413827011 and visit them at 1415 NE 3rd St, Bend, OR 97701, United States.

Bunk+Brew Historic Lucas House: With a rating of 4.7 stars, this vibrant 3-star hotel is at 42 NW Hawthorne Ave, Bend, OR 97703, United States. You can call them at +14582021090.