[emhahn]

Anyone know of any great micro-distilleries out there? I found this story the other day and was amazed to learn that only 10 years ago there were only 12 in the United States, and 66 today. Most of which came into being within the last 5 years.

I'd call that a growing trend if there ever was one!

Eric
http://www.restaurantedge.com

[Pete]

New a great little micro distillery in Vermont that made a cucumber flavored gin. Still one of my favorites to this day. Unfortunately they closed up a few years ago.

[foodpump]

Kinda reminds me of the portable Gov't destilleries in Switzerland. The Swiss like their eau de vies: Kirsch (cherry brandy) Pflümli (Plum brandy) Williams (Pear brandy) Träsch (mixed fruit and herb) The farmers will collect their own fruit and ferment it in barrrels. Then comes the portable Gov't destillerie to that area, a pot still, maybe 100 liters at a time. The destiller destills each particular batch for the farmer, and charges him for labour plus Gov't taxes and tariffs. This has been going on for at least a hundred years or so. As a result there are some mighty fine fruit brandies, each with it's own particular flavour and character, and highly treasured by the farmer and all who drink it.

[CallerFromLA]

Check out http://www.dogfish.com/

They are a great community gathering place. Not only do they make their own beer, but they make their own spirits as well. And they enjoy educating guests. Sam Calagione has also written a book about it - "Brewing Up a Business - Adventures in Entrepreneurship from the Founder of Dogfish Head Craft Brewery"

By the way, there are only 40 meaderies in the United States too. Another good idea to build a business is off of making, marketing, and selling mead (honey wine). Check out gotmead.com for more information.


Cheers,
--CallerFromLA