Stranahan's Distillery
History of Stranahan’s Distillery
Stranahan’s Distillery, a notable name in the world of whiskey, is renowned for its unique position in the American whiskey landscape. This distillery, located in Denver, Colorado, has a distinctive history that sets it apart in the craft whiskey industry.
Founding and Early Years
Stranahan’s Distillery was founded in 2004, marking its entry as a pioneering force in Colorado’s craft whiskey scene. The distillery was established by George Stranahan, a notable figure with a diverse background ranging from physics to photography, and Jess Graber, a firefighter with a passion for distilling. Their partnership was formed following a barn fire at Stranahan’s farm, where the two met and discovered a shared interest in whiskey.
Distillery Development
The development of Stranahan’s Distillery was marked by a commitment to producing high-quality, small-batch whiskey. The founders focused on using locally sourced ingredients, primarily Colorado-grown barley, to create a distinct flavor profile. Their process involves a meticulous approach to distillation and aging, with attention to detail at every stage.
Current Operations
As of now, Stranahan’s Distillery continues to thrive, maintaining its commitment to craft whiskey production. The distillery has expanded its offerings, introducing several new expressions of whiskey that have been well received in the market. Their line now includes various aged whiskeys, each with a unique flavor profile that reflects the brand’s dedication to quality and innovation.
Contributions and Achievements
Over the years, Stranahan’s Distillery has significantly contributed to the American whiskey industry. It has garnered acclaim for its quality products, winning several awards at international spirits competitions. The distillery is also known for its commitment to sustainability and community involvement, fostering a strong local following and a global reputation.
Conclusion
In summary, Stranahan’s Distillery represents a remarkable story of innovation, quality, and passion in the craft whiskey industry. From its inception by George Stranahan and Jess Graber to its current operations and achievements, the distillery has remained a symbol of excellence and dedication in spirits.
Awards Won by Stranahan’s Distillery
- Pinnacle of Prestige: Colorado American Single Malt Distillery of the Year (2022)
- Honor: New York International Spirits Competition
- Highlight: A crowning achievement, showcasing Stranahan’s leadership in American single malt whiskey.
- The Gold Standard: Multiple Double Gold Accolades
- Event: San Francisco World Spirits Competition
- Significance: A testament to the exceptional quality of Stranahan’s whiskey, setting a benchmark for excellence.
- Gleaming with Gold: A Series of Top-Tier Awards
- Competitions: Denver International Spirits, ASCOT Awards, Beverage Tasting Institute, LA Spirits Award, Bartender Spirits Award
- Category: Whiskey
- Implication: Consistent recognition for outstanding quality in various prestigious events.
- Platinum Prestige and Consumer Adoration
- Awards: Platinum and Consumer Choice at the SIP Awards
- Meaning: A dual testament to Stranahan’s popularity among both connoisseurs and consumers.
- Silver-Lined Success: Strong Showings
- Events: Ultimate Spirits Challenge, USA Spirits Rating
- Connotation: Solidifies Stranahan’s reputation for high-quality whiskey, earning respect and accolades.
- Bronze Brilliance: Diverse Recognition
- Venue: New York International Spirits Competition
- Impression: Adds a versatile touch to Stranahan’s array of awards, showcasing their all-around excellence.
- Innovation and Excellence: Leading the Way
- Awards: Innovation Award (SIP Awards), Best of Class Platinum (ASCOT Awards)
- Reflection: Highlights Stranahan’s commitment to innovation and whiskey-making excellence, pushing industry boundaries.
Stranahan’s Distillery Tour Information and Experience
The Essence of American Single Malt: The Signature Tour
- Duration & Cost: 1 hour, $20 per person
- Experience: Dive into the heart of Stranahan’s with this comprehensive tour. Explore the history, craftsmanship, and unique processes that define their American Single Malt Whiskey. The journey culminates with a tasting of four distinct expressions, offering a palette of flavors that epitomize the brand’s excellence.
- Availability: Daily
The Art of Cask Finish: A Tasting Journey
- Duration & Cost: 45 minutes, $40 per person
- Experience: Sundays bring an exclusive opportunity to delve into Stranahan’s innovative cask-finished whiskeys. Discover how different casks influence the whiskey’s character, and taste the nuanced flavors that emerge from this creative process.
- Availability: Sundays
Exploring the Uncharted: Distiller’s Experimental Tastings
- Duration & Cost: 45 minutes, $45 per person
- Experience: Embrace the spirit of innovation on Thursdays with rare, cask-strength whiskey experiments. This session is a tribute to Stranahan’s relentless pursuit of the extraordinary, offering a glimpse into the future of whiskey making.
- Availability: Thursdays
A Decade in a Bottle: Mountain Angel 10 Year Old Tasting
- Duration & Cost: 45 minutes, $55 per person
- Experience: Celebrate a milestone in American whiskey on Fridays. Indulge in Stranahan’s Mountain Angel, a 10-year-old marvel, and savor the rich history and evolution encapsulated in each sip.
- Availability: Fridays
Mixology Masterclass: Cocktail Creation with Stranahan’s
- Duration & Cost: 2 hours, $70 per person
- Experience: Transform Tuesdays into a mixologist’s dream. Start with a signature welcome cocktail, enjoy light bites, and then dive into crafting two exquisite Stranahan’s whiskey cocktails. It’s an experience that marries flavor and creativity.
- Availability: Tuesdays
Mardi Gras in a Glass: A Festive Cocktail Experience
- Duration & Cost: 2 hours, $70 per person
- Experience: Immerse yourself in the vibrancy of Mardi Gras through themed cocktails. This special class fuses the spirit of New Orleans with Stranahan’s distinctive whiskey, creating a carnival of flavors.
- Availability: Seasonal
The Connoisseur’s Choice: Top Shelf Tour
- Duration & Cost: Varies, $75 per person
- Experience: For the true whiskey aficionado, this premium tour offers an in-depth exploration of Stranahan’s history, processes, and five exceptional whiskey expressions. The experience includes a special gift bag as a memento.
- Availability: Select Thursdays and Fridays
Colorado Pride: The Home Grown Tour
- Duration & Cost: 1 hour, Free for Colorado residents
- Experience: A Sunday special for locals, this tour celebrates Colorado’s rich whiskey heritage. Delve into the unique aspects of Stranahan’s whiskey-making art, all while basking in local pride.
- Availability: Sundays
Honoring Heroes: Special Tours for Healthcare Workers, First Responders & Teachers
- Duration & Cost: 1 hour, Free
- Experience: Dedicated to those who serve our communities, these Monday tours are Stranahan’s way of saying thank you. Enjoy a guided exploration and a tasting of three American Single Malt Whiskey expressions.
- Availability: Mondays
The Stranahan’s Experience: A Journey from Grain to Glass Each tour is an adventure through the malting floor, fermentation tanks, distillation areas, and the barrel room. Beyond observing the whiskey-making process, you’ll engage in rich storytelling and learn about the blending and aging techniques that make Stranahan’s a beacon of whiskey craftsmanship.
Preparing for Your Visit
- Choose your preferred experience and book online.
- Arrive a few minutes early for check-in.
- Remember: Participants must be 21 or older, children are not allowed, and closed-toe shoes are mandatory for safety.
Stranahan’s Distillery tours are not just tours; they are immersive experiences that blend education, sensory delight, and a deep appreciation for the art and science of whiskey making. Each visit promises a journey through the nuances of flavor, tradition
Flask & Barrel Review of Stranahan’s Distillery
As a seasoned whiskey collector who’s been on many distillery tours, my recent visit to Stranahan’s Distillery truly stood out, meriting a solid 4.7 out of 5 in my books. Let me break down why.
First off, the ambiance. Stranahan’s has this unique, welcoming vibe that’s both rustic and modern. The moment I stepped in, I knew I was in for a treat. It’s not just about the whiskey here; it’s about the experience, the story behind each bottle, and the people who make it all happen.
The tour itself was a highlight. I’ve been on plenty of tours, but the passion and knowledge of the Stranahan’s team were evident. They didn’t just recite facts; they shared stories, making the tour both informative and personal. Seeing the malting floor and those fermentation tanks up close was a treat, and the barrel room had this rich, woody aroma that’s just unforgettable.
Now, the whiskey tasting — that’s where Stranahan’s truly shines. Each sample was a journey through different flavors and notes. Their Mountain Angel 10 Year Old? Absolute perfection. It’s not just the taste, but the way they presented it, explaining the nuances, made me appreciate it even more.
The cocktail class was another fun aspect. I’ve tried mixing drinks at home, but learning the proper techniques from their mixologist was both educational and entertaining. It added a whole new dimension to the experience.
What docked the 0.3 points? Well, it was crowded, and at times, it felt a bit rushed. Also, while I appreciate the art of whiskey making, a little more focus on the technical aspects would have been great for a geek like me.
What To Do Nearby Stranahan’s Distillery
Laws Whiskey House: Just off South Broadway, this distillery is known for its meticulous approach to whiskey making. It offers tours that showcase its traditional processes and unique whiskies.
Leopold Bros.: A family-owned distillery famous for a wide range of spirits including whiskey, gin, and liqueurs. Their tasting room at Northfield offers an opportunity to sample their diverse products.
The Family Jones Spirit House: Located in LoHi, this establishment combines great food with craft cocktails made from in-house spirits. They also offer tours that include tastings.
Spirit Hound Distillers — Denver Tasting Room: In the Highland neighborhood, enjoy hand-crafted cocktails and spirits tastings. Known for their award-winning whiskies and liqueurs.
Rising Sun Distillery: Close to Empower Field at Mile High, they offer handcrafted spirits including vodka, gin, and whiskey. Their tasting room offers unique cocktails and distillery tours.
Ironton Distillery & Crafthouse: In Denver’s RiNo Art District, this distillery offers a variety of housemade spirits. Enjoy a drink in their cocktail bar or on the outdoor patio.
Archetype Distillery: Specializing in vodka and gin made from grapes, Archetype Distillery offers a unique tasting experience in a beautifully restored historic building on South Broadway. They also provide immersive mixology lessons.
Denver Distillery: Denver’s first distillery-pub located in a historic hotel on South Broadway, offering small-batch, grain-to-glass spirits and a free tour.
Talnua Distillery: In Arvada, experience America’s first single-pot still whiskey distillery. They offer guided tours and tastings, and you can enjoy drinks in their cocktail lounge.
State 38 Distilling: Located in Golden, this distillery offers a wide range of spirits including unique agave spirits and absinthe. They have hand-built stills and a tasting room.
Golden Moon Distillery: Also in Golden, offering tours of their world-class facility. They craft whiskies, gins, liquors, brandies, and absinthe which can be enjoyed neat or in cocktails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Stranahan’s Distillery?
Maria Empanada – South Broadway: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them at +13039342221. Their address is 1298 S Broadway, Denver, CO.
Breakfast On Broadway: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them at +13037889998. Their address is 2901 S Broadway, Denver, CO.
Jalapeños Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +13037815525. Their address is 3120 S Broadway, Denver, CO.
What hotels are near Stranahan’s Distillery?
11th Avenue Hostel: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +13038940529. Their address is 1112 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203, United States.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Denver Downtown: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +13037222322. Their address is 685 Speer Blvd, Denver, CO 80204, United States.
Ember Hostel: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +13039421633. Their address is 857 Grant St, Denver, CO 80203, United States.