Experience the real taste of Alaska at this family-owned distillery where small batches lead to artisanal spirits. First, pure water from a local lake is the foundation. All organic grains are then added, milled onsite with local herbs. The finishing touch is that Alaskan hard work and small business handcrafting. You’ll find the best bourbon, vodka, gin, rye and even absinthe at this little distillery. It’s more than an homage to Alaska—it’s Alaska, bottled.

In the tasting room, you’ll get a sample of some of the Port’s best bottles. However, the 50 Fathoms Gin is particularly popular, especially after it won the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. With a double gold medal, it went on to win more gold at the American Craft Spirits Awards. It’s also dubbed “our favorite of the bunch” by Travel + Leisure, but you can taste it yourself and be the judge.

The Spirit of Alaska

The cozy tasting room is located in Haines, and visitors sip on flights or you can ask the bartender to create a signature cocktail just for you. Shop for merchandise and take home your own favorite bottles for yourself or as a gift. Open Monday – Saturday from 4 – 8 p.m., you’ll find the tasting room at 34 Blacksmith Street.

The spirits aren’t the only thing handcrafted here. Located in an army outpost, the distillery was also handcrafted into a truly unique experience. It’s also been a bakery in its lifetime, and the historic site now features massive stainless steel fermentation tanks, a copper still, and of course the unofficial mascot: the owner’s Australian Shepherd, Ozzie.

What spirit will you try first?