Jeffrey S.
Yelp
Embarking on a visit to the Boston Harbor Distillery is not just a tasting experience; it's a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of history woven into each artisanal spirit. My recent tour of this distillery was nothing short of extraordinary, providing not only a delightful exploration of flavors but also a deep dive into the fascinating story behind the distillery's existence.
Woman owned distillery is always a fascinating thing. Boston Harbor Distillery, founded by Rhonda Kallman in 2012, is a hub for crafting whole-grain whiskey and innovative spirits. With an illustrious career in the U.S. craft beer movement, Kallman realized her dream of producing whiskey in Boston. After an extensive search, the distillery found a historic location at The Port on Boston Harbor, an 1859 mill building in Dorchester. [citation from https://bostonharbordistillery.com/pages/about-us]
Embracing the building's rich history, Boston Harbor Distillery draws inspiration from entrepreneurs like Silas Putnam, George Lawley & Son Shipyard, and Seymour's Ice Cream factory. Dr. James Swan, a whiskey production and maturation expert, played a crucial role in educating the team. Today, under the leadership of John Stark, the distillery prioritizes the use of top-quality ingredients for their whiskey, gin, rum, liqueurs, and even distilled beer from Sam Adams.
The distillery's bonded barrel storage warehouse houses hundreds of barrels of aging whiskey, symbolizing a commitment to redefining American spirits. Boston Harbor Distillery invites visitors to meet their passionate team, savor their spirits, and join in celebrating the next revolution of handcrafted American spirits at the crossroads of Boston's history, craftsmanship, and celebration.
The journey began with a captivating overview of Boston's role in the history of distilling, dating back to the Revolutionary era. The guides skillfully shared anecdotes about the city's illicit rum trade, prohibition-era tales, and the revival of craft distilling in recent times. This historical context added layers of significance to each sip, turning the tasting into a sensory exploration of both flavor and time.
The selection of spirits at Boston Harbor Distillery is nothing short of impressive. From their award-winning whiskey to the unique liqueurs, each product carries a story that resonates with the distillery's commitment to quality and tradition. Tasting notes were expertly explained, allowing me to appreciate the nuances in every glass.
Many good drinks here but the Rye was my favorite and took a bottle home to Pittsburgh, PA Cheers!!