Spiritual Sojourn R A M B L E AC RO S S O R EG O N , R A I S I N G A G L A S S TO T H E S E D E ST I N AT I O N - W O RT H Y C R A F T D I ST I L L E R S written by Vanessa Salvia OREGONIANS HAVE GOOD TASTE. We embrace quality. We are known for our fine food, farmers’ markets, craft beer and exceptional wines for the same reasons as our distilled spirits, made by one of the most active artisan communities of this type in the country. Some of these spots, such as Bendistillery, which has been making Crater Lake vodka and gin since 1996, are spirits pioneers. Others, such as Gompers Distillery, which opened in Redmond in 2019, are embracing an inspirational past while planning for a potent future. “An entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to always try and find a better way of doing things permeates everything Oregon, especially when it comes to locally made, handcrafted products,” said Alan Dietrich, CEO of Bendistillery. A craft distillery road trip lets you taste established and experimental (or in some cases, forgotten) spirits straight from the source and experience Oregon’s beauty along the way. Whether you’re in the verdant hills of wine country, the volcanic moonscapes of Central Oregon, or the purple mountain majesty of northeastern Oregon, each stop is as memorable as the spirits you’ll taste. Take your time while visiting these distilleries. Explore and ask questions. The stories behind the distilleries are as interesting as the libations.
66 1859 OREGON’S MAGAZINE
MAY | JUNE 2021
