Savage & Cooke Distillery, located on Mare Island in the San Francisco Bay Area, is a unique craft spirits destination that opened its doors in 2018. The distillery is the brainchild of renowned winemaker Dave Phinney, known for his successful wine brands like The Prisoner and Orin Swift.
In This Article
Key Points
- Savage & Cooke Distillery is situated on the historic Mare Island, a former naval shipyard in the San Francisco Bay Area
- The distillery crafts a range of distinctive spirits, including whiskey, bourbon, and rye, using locally sourced ingredients and innovative production methods
- Visitors can experience tours, tastings, and events at the distillery, immersing themselves in the world of craft spirits
The Birth of Savage & Cooke Distillery
Dave Phinney’s vision for Savage & Cooke Distillery came to life when he partnered with billionaire Gaylon Lawrence to transform the abandoned naval base on Mare Island into a booze destination. Phinney’s background in the wine industry, coupled with his appreciation for spirits, led him to venture into the world of craft distilling.
The restoration and transformation of Mare Island’s century-old red brick buildings into a state-of-the-art distillery and tasting room was a significant undertaking. The result is a stunning facility that pays homage to the island’s rich history while embracing modern distilling techniques.
Distinctive Spirits Crafted at Savage & Cooke
Savage & Cooke Distillery produces a diverse range of spirits, including whiskey, bourbon, and rye. The distillery sources its ingredients, such as heirloom Bloody Butcher corn, from a single farm just 40 miles away in the Vaca Mountains. The barley is custom malted in nearby San Francisco, and the distillery’s master cooper designs and crafts the barrels on-site.
The distillery’s aging techniques are unique, with whiskeys being finished for 45 to 60 days in Phinney’s wine barrels. The American whiskey is finished in Zinfandel barrels, the bourbon in Napa County Cabernet Sauvignon barrels, and the flagship straight rye whiskey in Grenache barrels from Phinney’s French vineyard. This innovative approach results in distinctive spirits that showcase the influence of the Bay Area’s climate and winemaking heritage.
Exploring the Distillery: Tours and Tastings
Visitors to Savage & Cooke Distillery can immerse themselves in the world of craft spirits through tours and tastings. The distillery offers a tour that provides an in-depth look at the production process, from grain to glass. Guests can witness the Vendome Copper & Brass Works column still in action and learn about the distillery’s unique aging techniques.
The tasting experience allows visitors to sample the distillery’s signature spirits, including their American whiskey, bourbon, and rye. The tasting room offers a welcoming atmosphere where guests can relax and enjoy the fruits of Savage & Cooke’s labor.
Events and Collaborations
Savage & Cooke Distillery hosts regular events, such as new spirit releases and community gatherings, that showcase their commitment to the local food and drink scene. The distillery also collaborates with local businesses, further strengthening its ties to the Bay Area community.
The distillery’s stunning location and unique spaces make it an ideal venue for private events and functions. From corporate gatherings to weddings, Savage & Cooke Distillery offers a memorable setting for any occasion.
Visitor Information and Amenities
Savage & Cooke Distillery is located on Mare Island, easily accessible by car or ferry from San Francisco. The distillery offers ample parking for visitors and is open for tours and tastings Wednesday through Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm.
In addition to the tasting room, the distillery features an on-site merchandise shop where visitors can purchase bottles of their favorite spirits, as well as branded apparel and accessories. The distillery’s proximity to other Bay Area attractions makes it an ideal stop on any itinerary.
The Future of Savage & Cooke Distillery
As Savage & Cooke Distillery continues to grow and evolve, visitors can expect new spirit releases and expanded tour and tasting experiences. The distillery’s commitment to crafting distinctive, high-quality spirits using local ingredients and innovative techniques ensures that it will remain a key player in the Bay Area’s thriving craft spirits scene.
FAQ
What types of spirits does Savage & Cooke Distillery specialize in?
Savage & Cooke Distillery specializes in crafting whiskey, bourbon, and rye, as well as unique offerings like their Lip Service rye finished in Grenache barrels.
Can visitors purchase bottles of spirits directly from the distillery?
Yes, visitors can purchase bottles of their favorite Savage & Cooke spirits at the on-site merchandise shop.
Are there any food options available at Savage & Cooke Distillery?
While the distillery does not have a full-service restaurant, there are plans for a fried chicken restaurant on Mare Island in the future.
How can someone book a tour at Savage & Cooke Distillery?
Tours can be booked online through the distillery’s website or by calling the distillery directly. A $10 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve a spot, which is applied to the tasting fee.
Does Savage & Cooke Distillery host private events or functions?
Yes, the distillery’s unique spaces and stunning location make it an ideal venue for private events, from corporate gatherings to weddings.
