Prohibition Spirits
History of Prohibition Spirits Distillery
Beginnings: Chauvet Brandies
- Date & Founder: The journey began with French immigrant Joshua Chauvet, who turned his bread-baking business into a brandy production in the 1850s near Sonoma Creek. Chauvet introduced Brandy to the Bay Area using a state-of-the-art copper still from France.
- Legacy: Chauvet, who passed away in 1908, is remembered for his significant impact on the wine and spirits industry in the region. His legacy continues through unique products that showcase the diverse produce of Wine Country.
Sugar Daddy Rums: The Story of Adolf Spreckels
- Inspiration: Inspired by Adolf Spreckels, a notable sugar baron and industrial tycoon in Sonoma, Sugar Daddy Rums pay homage to his extravagant lifestyle and love for fine spirits.
- Product Focus: The distillery has sourced exceptional sugar cane rums from the Caribbean, aging them in French Oak wine barrels in Sonoma, reflecting the exquisite taste of the original “Sugar Daddy.”
Hooker’s House Whiskeys: Tribute to General Joseph Hooker
- Tribute: These whiskeys are a nod to General Joseph Hooker, known for his indulgent lifestyle, love for whiskey, and reputation as a “ladies’ man.”
- Cultural Impact: General Hooker’s spirited life, including the popularization of the term “Hooker,” is celebrated through these whiskeys. His home, now a museum, is part of the distillery’s heritage.
Embracing History
- Distinction: Prohibition Spirits Distillery holds the honor of being the first distillery in Sonoma since the Prohibition Era, deeply rooted in the town’s rich history.
Prohibition Spirits Distillery Tour Information and Experience
Prohibition Spirits Distillery, located in Sonoma, California, stands out for its innovative approach to the art of crafting spirits. Renowned for its dedication to quality, the distillery offers an engaging tour that gives visitors a detailed look into small-batch distilling.
Historical Context and Distillation Process
The tour starts with an informative introduction to the history of Prohibition in the United States, a crucial period that significantly influenced the art of distilling. The distillery’s name itself is a tribute to this era. Visitors are guided through the distillation process, observing the blend of science and artistry. The use of locally sourced ingredients underlines the distillery’s commitment to community and sustainability.
The Tasting Experience
A highlight of the tour is the tasting session. Guests are invited to sample a range of spirits, including handcrafted gin, whiskey, and liqueurs. These tastings come with thorough explanations of the spirits’ flavour profiles and their distinctive creation methods, offering a deeper understanding of each spirit’s unique character.
Special Events and Workshops
Prohibition Spirits Distillery regularly hosts special events and workshops, varying from cocktail-making classes to detailed discussions on distilling aspects. These events are ideal for those looking to broaden their knowledge and skills in the spirit world.
Retail Space
The distillery also features a retail area where visitors can purchase their preferred spirits and related merchandise, allowing them to take a part of their experience home.
Visiting Information
It’s recommended to book the tour in advance due to the distillery’s scheduled operations and potential limited availability. The tours are intimate and educational, conducted by passionate and knowledgeable staff.
In conclusion, Prohibition Spirits Distillery offers a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for spirit enthusiasts. From its historical roots to the contemporary art of distillation, the tour provides an all-encompassing view of spirit-making. The tasting sessions and the chance to join additional events contribute significantly to the overall richness of the experience.
Flask & Barrel Review of Prohibition Spirits Distillery
As a seasoned whiskey collector who has been on numerous distillery tours, I must say, Prohibition Spirits Distillery genuinely stood out for me. I’d give it a solid 4.7 out of 5. From the get-go, the vibe at Prohibition Spirits was welcoming and had a real personal touch.
The tour kicked off with an intriguing background on the Prohibition era. Being a bit of a history buff, I appreciated this nod to the past. It set the tone for what’s not just a distillery, but a place steeped in history. Moving on to the distilling process, it was evident that these folks were not just making spirits; they were crafting them. There’s a meticulous attention to detail here that, as someone who’s been around, I could appreciate.
Now, let’s talk about the main event – the tasting. As a whiskey enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of tastings, but the ones here were something else. Each spirit had its unique character, and the staff explained the flavour profiles well. It was more than just a tasting; it was an education.
The place also runs various workshops and special events. I didn’t get to participate in these, but from what I gathered, they’re worth checking out. Adds a nice variety to the whole experience.
The distillery has a shop where you can buy their spirits and some cool merchandise. I picked up a bottle of their craft whiskey – a fine addition to my collection.
If I had to nitpick, the only downside was the need to book in advance due to their schedule. But it’s a small price to pay for such a quality experience.
What To Do Nearby Prohibition Spirits Distillery
Sonoma Plaza: Just a few miles from the distillery, this historic square is surrounded by boutique shops, art galleries, and various dining options. It’s a great place to soak in the local culture.
Wineries and Vineyards: Sonoma is famous for its wineries. Several vineyards offer tours and tastings, providing a perfect way to experience the region’s renowned wines.
Outdoor Activities: For those who love nature, there are many hiking and biking trails in the area, offering beautiful views of the Sonoma Valley.
Cultural Sites: Sonoma is rich in history. Visiting nearby historical landmarks and museums can provide insight into the area’s past.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Prohibition Spirits Distillery?
Black Bear Diner: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. Known for its comfort food classics in a homey setting, it’s at 201 W Napa St 34 Ste 34. You can contact them at +17079356800.
the girl & the fig: This restaurant has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. A casual bistro for French country fare is at 110 W Spain St. You can contact them at +17079383634.
La Casa Restaurant and Bar: With a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps, this long-standing traditional Mexican eatery is located at 121 E Spain St. You can contact them at +17079963406.
What hotels are near Prohibition Spirits Distillery?
Best Western Sonoma Valley Inn & Krug Event Center: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them at their phone number +17079389200. Their address is 550 2nd St W, Sonoma, CA 95476, United States.
Sonoma Hotel: This hotel has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them via their phone number +17079962996. The hotel is located in 110 W Spain St, Sonoma, CA 95476, United States.
The Lodge at Sonoma Resort, Autograph Collection: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. For booking inquiries, their contact number is +17079356600. The address for this hotel is Leveroni & Napa Roads, 1325 Broadway, Sonoma, CA 95476, United States.