Unveiling the Spirit of Spokane: An Exploration of Dry Fly Distilling

A Sip of History in Spokane

Nestled in the heart of Spokane, Washington, Dry Fly Distilling stands as a beacon of innovation and tradition in the craft spirits industry. Founded in 2007, this distillery has captured the spirit—literally and figuratively—of the Northwest with an unwavering commitment to local ingredients and sustainable practices. Born from a passion for the outdoors and fine handcrafted spirits, Dry Fly Distilling has positioned itself as a staple in Spokane’s vibrant cultural and artisanal scene.

The Birth of a Distillery

The inception of Dry Fly Distilling was no small feat. Founders Don Poffenroth and Kent Fleischmann embarked on an ambitious journey to create premium craft spirits adorned with the essence of Washington’s natural bounty. Their ethos was rooted in crafting spirits that not only taste exceptional but also tell the story of the land from which they came. From the very beginning, the founders emphasized using local grains and other ingredients, embodying a farm-to-bottle philosophy that sparked a local revolution in distilling.

Crafting Excellence: The Product Line

Dry Fly Distilling is renowned for its diverse array of meticulously crafted spirits. Each bottle is a testament to the nuanced art of distillation, encompassing everything from gin to whiskey, each with its unique twist.

Whiskeys

Dry Fly Distilling offers a variety of whiskeys, including their flagship Washington Wheat Whiskey. Crafted entirely from locally sourced wheat, it exudes notes of honey and toffee, representing a smooth departure from the more traditional corn-based counterparts. Their Bourbon 101, aged in American oak barrels, balances a perfect blend of sweet and spicy undertones—a must-try for whiskey aficionados.

Gins

Dry Fly’s gin selection is equally impressive, with their Dry Fly Gin providing a refreshing botanical experience derived from a carefully curated mix of regional botanicals. Noteworthy is their Barrel Reserve Gin, which boasts a unique aging process in oak barrels, imparting a warm, vanilla-infused depth.

Vodkas

Elevating the simplicity of vodka, Dry Fly’s Vodka is crafted with the same meticulous attention to detail and is celebrated for its smoothness and clarity. This distillery also offers flavored vodkas, including their distinctive Cucumber Vodka, which highlights the fresh, crisp flavors of Washington's farm produce.

The Distillation Process: Farm to Bottle

Distinctly, what sets Dry Fly apart from other distilleries is their adherence to a sustainable, local-centric approach. They maintain full transparency in their sourcing, acquiring grains from local farms such as Hutterian Brethren, showcasing the fertile land of the Spokane region.

Dry Fly Distilling uses a mash bill designed to extract the finest flavors inherent in the ingredients. Employing traditional pot stills alongside modern techniques, they ensure every batch meets their stringent quality standards. Their commitment to minimizing waste and carbon footprint further enhances their standing as pioneers in eco-friendly distillation.

A Visitor's Experience: What You Can Expect

Stepping into Dry Fly Distilling offers more than just a taste of finely crafted spirits; it's an immersive journey into the artistry of craft distillation. Visitors are treated to an engaging experience that highlights both the technical intricacies and the harmonious beauty of spirit creation.

Tours and Tastings

Visitors to Dry Fly are encouraged to participate in guided tours of the distillery, where they can witness firsthand the processes involved in creating award-winning spirits. These tours are not only educational but also allow for a deeper appreciation of the craftsmanship and dedication involved.

After the tour, tasting sessions offer the opportunity to sample a selection of Dry Fly’s products. These tastings provide a balanced exploration of flavor profiles and an appreciation for the nuanced differences between each spirit.

Must-See Highlights

• Tasting Room: Before heading out, the tasting room beckons with its inviting atmosphere. Here, you can sample the latest creations or purchase a bottle to take home as a memento.

• Special Events: Dry Fly frequently hosts events that cater to both novices and connoisseurs alike. These include mixology workshops, where talented bartenders share their insights and techniques for crafting the perfect cocktail.

Visitor Tips

Embracing the Community and Culture

Beyond crafting spirits, Dry Fly Distilling plays an active role in the Spokane community. Their commitment to local collaboration extends to partnerships with local farms and participation in community events. This dedication enriches Spokane’s cultural landscape and provides a model of responsible and sustainable business practices.

Family-Friendly Features

While distilleries might traditionally cater to an adult audience, Dry Fly has introduced educational elements that make it an enlightening visit for responsible families. The focus on sustainability and local agriculture can provide unique educational opportunities for younger visitors🌱.

Accessibility Considerations

Ensuring a welcoming experience for all guests, Dry Fly Distilling is structured to accommodate visitors with varying mobility needs. From accessible facilities to knowledgeable staff ready to assist, they prioritize an inclusive environment.

Why Dry Fly Distilling is a Must-Visit

Dry Fly Distilling not only captivates spirit enthusiasts with its quality offerings but also invites visitors to explore a piece of Spokane’s identity. Through its commitment to sustainability, local community engagement, and educational initiatives, Dry Fly embodies what it means to create with conscience and passion.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional range of farm-to-bottle products.
• Engaging, educational distillery tours.
• Strong emphasis on sustainability and community.

Cons:

• Potential crowding during peak tourist season.
• Parking can be limited, requiring plan adjustments.

FAQs About Dry Fly Distilling

What types of spirits does Dry Fly Distilling offer?

Dry Fly Distilling specializes in a selection of spirits, including whiskeys, gins, and vodkas, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

Are tours available at Dry Fly Distilling?

Yes, guided tours are available and provide an in-depth look at the distillation process, from grain sourcing to the final bottled product.

Is Dry Fly Distilling family-friendly?

While primarily an adult venue, educational aspects make it suitable for families interested in learning about sustainable practices and local agriculture.

Can I purchase spirits at the distillery?

Absolutely! Visitors can sample and purchase the full range of Dry Fly’s products.

For those interested in delving deeper, consider exploring other distilleries in the Spokane area to experience the broader spectrum of craft spirits the region has to offer. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local, Dry Fly Distilling promises an engaging, flavorful dive into the world of artisanal spirits, making it an essential stop in Spokane.