DC’s Best Distilleries
Lifestyle
Looking to get into the spirit this spring? In and around DC, distilleries are always on tap, and we know the coolest spots to sample — from historical sites to the buzziest mixed-use restaurants and more. Keep reading for the DMV distilleries you should check out not only this month, but all year long!
#1 Founding Spirits: From the minds behind Founding Farmers and Farmers Fishers Bakers comes this distillery and restaurant near Chinatown. As the restaurant’s micro-batch distillery, Founding Spirits currently specializes in the production of small-batch vodka, whiskey, and amaro. The in-house spirits are also incorporated into an extensive cocktail list, so you can pair your drink with a seemingly bottomless menu covering an equally expansive range of cuisines — from Asian to Italian, American, and much more.
#2 Mount Vernon Distillery: One of the lesser-known facts about the first President of the United States? He had a highly successful whiskey business. Encouraged by his Scottish farm manager, Washington in fact began distilling in the early 1790s and by the time of his death sported the largest whiskey distillery in America. A visit to the functioning Distillery & Gristmill is included with General Admission Ticket to George Washington’s Mount Vernon, which operates starting early spring through the end of October on Saturday & Sunday.
Searching for more recommendations on where to get drinks in DC? Check out these blog posts.
- DC’s Best Rooftop Bars
- Where To Celebrate Cinco De Mayo In DC
- Best Tiki Cocktail Spots in DC
- Best Wine Bars in DC
#3 Republic Restoratives: Not only is Republic Restoratives 100% women-owned and LGBTQ+-owned, it’s the largest crowd-funded distillery in the world. The owners are longtime friends who believe in the power of a cocktail to bring communities together — and that they do time and time again. Spirits range from Purpose Rye and Civic Vodka to Madam, a new commemorative whiskey in honor of Vice President Kamala Harris, whose label was designed by local artist @thelexmarie.
#4 Dragon Distillery: Producing moonshine, bourbon, whisky, gin, rum, and vodka, Dragon Distillery offers tours and tastings Friday through Sunday and by appointment during additional time slots. Be sure to pick up one of their four canned cocktails to go such as the citrus vodka and tonic.
Grabbing a bite to eat in DC? Check out these blogs for more recommendations.
#5 Sagamore Spirit Distillery: Founded by Armour CEO Kevin Plank, this five-acre distillery offers a truly immersive experience with interactive exhibits on the history of Maryland rye whiskey, a tour of the production facility, and tastings. On a nice day, drink in the waterfront views on the patio, or partake in cocktail making classes, glass blowing, and waterfront yoga.
#6 Don Ciccio & Figli: For 100-plus years, the family of Don Ciccio & Figli’s founder produced liquors on Italy’s Amalfi coast. Luckily for DC, those traditions are being revived in this Ivy City distillery with Italian spirits such as limoncello, amaro and aperitifs created with recipes that have been handed down through generations. Attend free tastings on Saturdays, or reserve a spot at Bar Sirenis, which serves a selection of specialty cocktails (think negronis and spritzes).
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