"Founded in 2013, Astoria’s Pilot House is an infant by Kentucky bourbon or Scotch standards, but positively mature measured by Oregon’s youthful distillery scene. Pilot House’s nautical-themed offerings include a tequila-style agave spirit, both American-style and London-style gins, an absinthe (wormwood included), and a single malt whiskey with each barrel “ocean aged” on a fishing boat. Take that, Kentucky. Portland tasting room and bottle shop hours vary, so calling ahead is recommended. Or swing by the more expansive Astoria or Cannon Beach tasting rooms open daily." - Adam Sawyer, Nathan Williams