Sonoma Brothers Distilling
History of Sonoma Brothers Distilling
Establishment and Founder
Sonoma Brothers Distilling, a noteworthy craft distillery, was established in the picturesque Sonoma County, California. The inception of this distillery can be traced back to a specific date when twin brothers Chris and Brandon Matthies decided to bring their passion for artisanal spirits to life. Their journey in the world of distilling began with a shared vision: to create handcrafted, small-batch spirits that reflect the rich heritage of their region.
Artisanal Approach to Whiskey Production
At the heart of Sonoma Brothers Distilling lies its dedication to crafting exceptional whiskeys. The distillery is renowned for its meticulous approach to producing a range of whiskeys, each with its own distinct character. These include:
- Straight Bourbon Whiskey: Aged in new American oak barrels, this bourbon showcases a rich, smooth profile.
- Wheat Whiskey: Known for its softer, more mellow flavors, the wheat whiskey offers a unique tasting experience.
- Single Malt Whiskey: Inspired by traditional Scotch, this single malt is a testament to the distillery’s versatility and craftsmanship.
Expansion and Recognition
As the distillery grew, it not only expanded its product range but also garnered significant recognition. The unique character of their whiskeys, coupled with the brothers’ commitment to quality, led to widespread acclaim in the craft spirits industry. This acclaim helped in establishing Sonoma Brothers Distilling as a distinguished name in the realm of artisanal whiskey production.
Commitment to Sustainable Practices
An integral aspect of the distillery’s philosophy is its commitment to sustainability. Emphasizing eco-friendly practices, the distillery ensures that its operations have a minimal impact on the environment. This approach not only resonates with environmentally conscious consumers but also aligns with the broader ethos of the Sonoma County region, known for its focus on sustainable agriculture and production methods.
Community Engagement and Future Endeavours
Sonoma Brothers Distilling is deeply rooted in its community, often engaging in local events and collaborations. Looking ahead, the distillery continues to innovate, with plans to introduce new expressions and limited-edition releases. Their focus remains on maintaining the high quality of their products while exploring new avenues in whiskey making.
In summary, Sonoma Brothers Distilling stands as a testament to the art of whiskey making, combining traditional techniques with modern innovation. Its story is not just about the spirits it produces but also about the passion, craftsmanship, and community engagement that define its essence.
Awards Won by Sonoma Brothers Distilling
- Bartender Spirits Awards 2021: They earned
- Silver Medals for their Gin (87 points),
- Whisky (87 points), and
- Grape Vodka (84 points) reflects their commitment to quality across different spirit categories.
- Design and Packaging Awards: Their focus on branding and packaging has been notably acknowledged. They received several awards from prestigious bodies, including:
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- The 2015 World Brand Design Society
- The 2016 Applied Arts Design Awards
- Recognition in Creative Quarterly 42 and the Creative Quarterly 100 Best 2016 Book
- The 2016 Graphic Design USA American Package Design Award
- The 2016 Packaging of the World
- The 2017 Logo Lounge Book 10
- Honours in the 2017 Lurzer’s International Archive
- Second Place in the 2017 Mobius Awards
- Third Place in the 2018 The Dieline Awards
- Gold in the 2018 Graphis Branding 7 and Graphis Design Annual
- The 2018 HOW International Design Awards
- Master and Gold in the 2018 The Spirits Business – The Design & Packaging Masters for Vodka and Gin, respectively
- The 2019 UNI Brilliant Brand Awards
- Silver and Gold for Best Brand Design and Best Label Design in the 2019 World Drinks Awards – World Gin Awards
- Silver and Gold in the 2019 World Drinks Awards – World Vodka Awards for Best Brand Design and Best Label Design
Sonoma Brothers Distilling Tour Information and Experience
Overview of the Distillery
Sonoma Brothers Distilling, nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, is an artisan craft distillery founded by twin brothers Chris and Brandon Matthies. Established in 2012, this distillery is celebrated for its handcrafted, small-batch spirits, including Vodka, Gin, and Whiskeys. The tour experience here offers an insightful peek into the meticulous world of spirit production.
The Tasting Room Experience
The highlight of the Sonoma Brothers Distilling tour is the Tasting Room experience. Open for walk-in tastings on Fridays and Saturdays from 11am to 4pm, the Tasting Room provides an intimate setting for guests to savor the distillery’s products.
For a fee of $15, visitors can enjoy a tasting session that includes six spirits, served neat. This experience not only allows guests to taste the unique flavors of each spirit but also to understand the nuances that make each one distinct.
Weekday Tastings
For those who prefer a more personalized experience, the distillery offers tastings by appointment from Monday to Thursday. These sessions allow for a quieter environment to enjoy the spirits and engage with knowledgeable staff who can provide deeper insights into the crafting process.
Exploring the Craft of Distillation
While the Tasting Room offers a taste of the final product, the tour experience extends beyond just sampling. Visitors have the chance to tour the distillery equipment, gaining an understanding of the complex process involved in crafting each spirit. From fermentation to distillation, the tour demystifies the journey of raw ingredients turning into fine spirits.
The Art of Packaging
An often-overlooked aspect of spirit production is the packaging process. Sonoma Brothers Distilling takes pride in hand labeling, corking, and packaging their products. The tour gives guests a chance to witness this meticulous process, highlighting the care and attention to detail that goes into every bottle.
Additional Services
Beyond the standard tour and tasting, Sonoma Brothers Distilling offers custom distillation services, brand consultation, custom bottling, barrel aging, and storage services. These services are particularly appealing to those in the industry or enthusiasts looking to delve deeper into the world of spirits.
Flask & Barrel Review of Sonoma Brothers Distilling
I stepped into their distillery in Sonoma County, there was a palpable sense of passion and craftsmanship in the air. The twin brothers, Chris and Brandon, have truly created a space that’s both welcoming and informative. Their story, transitioning from public service roles to pursuing their distilling dream, added a personal touch that made the visit even more engaging.
The Tasting Room was the highlight for me. With a well-structured selection of six spirits for $15, I got a real sense of their skill in spirit making. Their whiskey, in particular, stood out with its distinct character – a testament to their meticulous aging process and choice of ingredients. It’s not every day you come across a whiskey that strikes the perfect balance between complexity and drinkability.
What I really appreciated was the behind-the-scenes glimpse during the tour. Seeing the distillation equipment and understanding their process was enlightening, especially for someone who prides themselves on knowing their whiskey.
The packaging process, which they handle with such care and attention to detail, also caught my interest. It’s clear they value every aspect of their product’s journey from grain to glass.
The distillery’s commitment to a personal and educational experience was evident throughout the visit. Even though I’ve been on many tours, I found myself learning new things, thanks to the knowledgeable staff who were more than happy to dive into the specifics of their craft.
The only reason I’m holding back on a full 5/5 is the current COVID-19 restrictions, which meant certain aspects of the tour weren’t available. However, I understand that’s beyond their control and they’ve adapted well to the situation.
What To Do Nearby Sonoma Brothers Distilling
Tilted Shed Ciderworks (7761 Bell Road, Windsor, CA 95492): Just a stone’s throw away from the distillery, this spot offers a unique experience with artisanal ciders crafted from locally sourced apples. It’s a refreshing stop for cider enthusiasts.
Two Shepherds (7763 Bell Road, Windsor, CA 95492): Located very close to the distillery, Two Shepherds is a charming winery known for its small-batch, Rhone-inspired wines. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a quieter, more intimate wine-tasting experience.
Colagrossi Wines (7755 Bell Road, Windsor, CA 95492): Just a short distance from Sonoma Brothers, this winery is known for its boutique-style wines, offering a cozy and personal wine tasting experience.
Barley & Bine Beer Cafe (7765 Bell Road, Windsor, CA 95492): A hop away from the distillery, this café is a haven for beer lovers, offering a vast selection of craft beers alongside delicious bites.
Guerrero Fernandez Winery (7724 Bell Road, Windsor, CA 95492): A brief drive from Sonoma Brothers, this family-owned winery is renowned for its handcrafted wines, making it a delightful stop for wine aficionados.
K Squared Cellars (7975 Cameron Drive, Suite 1500-A Windsor, CA 95492): A bit farther from the distillery, this winery is celebrated for its approachable, yet sophisticated wines, providing a wonderful tasting experience.
CUVER Belgian Brewers (7704 Bell Road, #A, Windsor, CA 95492): Near Sonoma Brothers, this brewery specializes in Belgian-style beers, offering a unique tasting experience for beer enthusiasts.
Zouzounis Wines (7680 Bell Road, Windsor, CA 95492): Close to the distillery, this winery is known for its small-lot, artisan wines, perfect for those seeking an intimate wine tasting session.
Russian River Brewing Company Windsor (700 Mitchell Lane, Windsor, CA 95492): A short drive away, this famous brewery offers an extensive selection of craft beers and a lively atmosphere.
Maison Porcella (8499 Old Redwood HWY Suite 114, Windsor, CA 95492): A bit further from Sonoma Brothers, this place offers a range of artisan charcuterie, perfect for a gourmet snack or picnic.
Paradise Burgers and Kitchen (8465 Old Redwood Highway, #300 Windsor, CA 95492): Located a short drive from the distillery, this spot is ideal for a casual and hearty meal.
El Gallo Negro (8465 Old Redwood Highway, Windsor, CA 95492): Also a brief drive away, this venue offers a vibrant Mexican dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Sonoma Brothers Distilling?
KIN Windsor: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on +17078377546. Their address is 740 McClelland Dr, Windsor, CA.
KC’s American Kitchen: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +17078387800. Their address is 9501 Du Vander Ln, Windsor, CA.
MoMo’s: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +17075730999. Their address is 385 Aviation Blvd A, Windsor, CA.
What hotels are near Sonoma Brothers Distilling?
Holiday Inn Windsor – Wine Country, an IHG Hotel: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +17078388800. Their address is 8755 Old Redwood Hwy, Windsor, CA 95492, United States.
Holiday Inn Express Windsor Sonoma Wine Country, an IHG Hotel: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on +17078370808. Their address is 8865 Conde Ln, Windsor, CA 95492, United States.
Vintners Resort: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them at +17075757350. Their address is 4350 Barnes Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, United States.