Distilleries and breweries show off their products in Madison

I had the pleasure of attending the 2nd Annual Celebration of American Distilleries in Madison, Wisconsin this past week.  It was an overwhelming array of some of the best in  liquor from all over the country.  For most of the packed conference room at the Edgewater Hotel, it was a chance to taste spirits that you rarely see in your local bar or liquor store.   I enjoyed doing the same, as well as checking out some of the smaller distilleries I didn't yet know about and now hope to visit in the near future. 

While I enjoyed nearly everything I had, here are some of the spirits that left the biggest impression on me.  I urge you to check them out, if possible in person, as most have tasting rooms.  If you can't make a trip, ask your local store why they aren't stocking them:

• Death's Door Gin-Wheat-based with Juniper, Coriander and Fennel.  Very smooth.
• Travis Hasse's Apple Pie-Not too sweet, not too tart, just like you like your apple pie.
• Tito's Vodka-It's corn and gluten free and goes down smooth.
• Great Lake Distillery's Rouge Absinthe-Still has the licorice taste, but with red florals.
• Black Star Farms Red Grape Grappa-Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes double-distilled has (deservingly) won many awards for this treat.
• Joss Vodka-Starts with organic wheat from Nebraska and ends with more flavor than I've ever had in an unflavored vodka.
• North Shore Distillery's Gin No. 11-With the herb mix in this, who needs the tonic?
• Templeton Rye-I didn't think I liked rye until I had a shot of this.
• Koval Distillery Ginger or Coffee Liqueur-Both were incredibly flavorful, but not too sweet.

An honorable mention has to go to New Holland Distillery and the Hopquila.  I am not much of a beer drinker so I wasn't too fond of this tequila-hops combo, but the huge lineup of those waiting for samples (and seconds) tells me that it's good stuff.  For a complete list of all of those who attended, visit the website of the Madison Malt Society.  And be sure to put this event on your calendar for next February.
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From this trip comes a suggestion for trip to Madison, Wisconsin, where you can visit Yahara Bay Distillery, Spirits of Madison, Death's Door Spirits and Travis Hasse's Pie Liqueurs.  The Edgewater Hotel offers accommodations on Lake Mendota with incredible views from The Cove Lounge.  Don't forget to check out the photos at the bar of all the celebrities who have been there and enjoy one of their Bellinis (they come in an assortment of flavors). 
 
Photos by Marcia Frost