St. George Spirits, founded in 1982, is the oldest craft distillery in the United States. This pioneering artisanal distillery, located in a former airplane hangar on the historic Alameda Naval Air Station in the San Francisco Bay Area, has been at the forefront of the craft distilling movement for over four decades. With a diverse portfolio of handcrafted spirits, including gins, whiskeys, brandies, and liqueurs, St. George Spirits continues to push the boundaries of traditional distillation.
In This Article
Key Points
- St. George Spirits’ role in the American craft distilling renaissance.
- The unique location and history of the Alameda Naval Air Station distillery.
- The diverse portfolio of spirits, including the iconic Terroir Gin and American single malt whiskey.
Exploring St. George Spirits
The Birthplace of California Artisanal Spirits
St. George Spirits’ founder, Jorg Rupf, played a significant role in shaping the craft distilling movement in the United States. His legacy continues under the guidance of master distillers Lance Winters and Dave Smith, who have brought innovation and creativity to the distillery.
A Haven for Craft Spirits Enthusiasts
St. George Spirits has become a cornerstone of the Bay Area spirits scene, known for its commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The distillery’s tasting room and tours offer visitors a chance to experience the passion and craftsmanship behind their spirits.
The Alameda Naval Air Station: A Distillery with a View
The transformation of a 65,000-square-foot military hangar into a state-of-the-art distillery has created a unique and picturesque setting, with stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
Signature Spirits and Innovations
The Terroir Gin: A Taste of California Wilderness
Inspired by the wild and aromatic landscape of Northern California, the Terroir Gin features unique botanicals that capture the essence of the region. This distinctive gin has played a significant role in the distillery’s commercial success.
American Single Malt Whiskey: A New Tradition
St. George Spirits has been at the forefront of developing American single malt whiskey, experimenting with different cask maturations and aging processes to create a truly unique spirit.
Absinthe Verte: Reviving a Legend
In 2007, St. George Spirits released the first commercially available American absinthe after the lifting of the 1912 ban. The Absinthe Verte was the result of a meticulous 11-year development process.
Distillery Tours and Tastings
Behind-the-Scenes Access
Visitors to St. George Spirits can take a tour of the distillery, getting an up-close look at the copper stills and aging barrels used in the production process. These tours provide an opportunity to learn about the art and science of artisanal distillation.
Spirits Tasting: Engaging the Senses
The distillery’s tasting room offers a wide variety of spirits to sample, from gins to brandies. This experience allows visitors to educate themselves about the unique flavors and characteristics of each spirit.
The Craft Cocktail Movement
Cocktail Recipes: Inspiration for Bartenders
The unique flavors of St. George Spirits have inspired bartenders to create innovative cocktail recipes. The distillery’s influence on the craft cocktail scene extends throughout California and beyond.
Craft Cocktail Ingredients: Elevating the Experience
St. George Spirits’ products are often used as high-quality ingredients in craft cocktails. The use of artisanal spirits has become increasingly important in modern cocktail culture.
Community and Events
Distillery Events: Celebrating Craft Spirits
St. George Spirits hosts various events throughout the year, showcasing their innovative spirits and dedication to the craft. These events have a positive impact on the local community and help to promote the artisanal spirits movement.
Collaborations and Contributions
The distillery has collaborated with other local businesses and distilleries, fostering a sense of community within the craft spirits industry. St. George Spirits also plays a role in supporting and mentoring the next generation of craft distillers.
St. George Spirits’ Product Line
A Diverse Portfolio of Spirits
St. George Spirits produces a wide range of spirits, including limited editions and experimental batches. Their approach to creating spirits is both innovative and reflective of their Californian roots.
- Gins: Terroir Gin, Botanivore Gin, Dry Rye Gin
- Whiskeys: Single Malt Whiskey, Breaking & Entering Bourbon, Baller Single Malt Whiskey
- Brandies: California Reserve Apple Brandy, Pear Brandy
- Liqueurs: NOLA Coffee Liqueur, Spiced Pear Liqueur, Raspberry Liqueur
- Other Spirits: Absinthe Verte, California Citrus Vodka, Dry Rye Reposado Gin
FAQ
What makes St. George Spirits unique in the craft distilling industry?
St. George Spirits is the oldest craft distillery in the United States, and has been at the forefront of the artisanal spirits movement since 1982. Their commitment to innovation, quality ingredients, and unique flavor profiles sets them apart in the industry.
Can visitors take a tour of the St. George Spirits distillery?
Yes, St. George Spirits offers distillery tours and tastings at their Alameda location. Visitors can learn about the distillation process, see the equipment up close, and sample a variety of their spirits.
What are some of the most popular spirits produced by St. George Spirits?
Some of St. George Spirits’ most popular offerings include their Terroir Gin, Single Malt Whiskey, Absinthe Verte, and NOLA Coffee Liqueur. However, their entire portfolio of spirits has gained recognition for quality and innovation.
How has St. George Spirits contributed to the craft distilling movement?
As the oldest craft distillery in the United States, St. George Spirits has played a significant role in the revival and growth of artisanal spirits production. They have inspired and mentored many other craft distillers, and their success has helped to legitimize the craft distilling industry.
Where can I find cocktail recipes using St. George Spirits?
You can find cocktail recipes featuring St. George Spirits on their official website, as well as on various cocktail and mixology websites and blogs. Many bartenders and mixologists have created unique recipes showcasing the distinct flavors of St. George Spirits’ products.
