Stephanie B.
Yelp
Eden is my second home. I spent a ton of my youth in this amazing (and fairly unknown) town, and so I was thoroughly surprised when I found out my quaint little Eden was home to a new distillery - and not just any distillery. This is a distillery that makes the fun kinds of alcohol - gin, and tequila (Agave Spirits). After all, no one has ever said they got up and danced on tables after just a beer or two.
Though open for a little while now, the official grand opening for New World was this past weekend. As coincidence had it, I had already planned a trip to Eden, so stopping at the opening worked out perfectly.
The building is off the main highway that runs through Eden, an easy walk from the Valley Market (or almost any place in Eden that's not high Wolf Creek). You'd never know this location was there until you stumble upon it.
When you enter the warehouse/building, you will immediately be in the gift shop slash place where you purchase tastings. For us, the tastings were done in time increments (possibly just to keep the crowds down for the opening). $2 per 1/2oz taste for either Gin or Tequila. I, of course, had to try both.
The tasting was done a little further into the warehouse. The man running it was obviously very knowledgeable in the processing of the alcohols, as well as the flavors, and additions. We tried the Tequila first - Rabbit Grass. The Agave Spirit (it can only be called Tequila in Mexico) was extremely flavorful. Our tasting guide suggest we hold it on our tongues for over 10 seconds, breathing in to get the full effect. I did this, and ... man. The tequila is smooth, but so flavorful. I can honestly say, I think it's the most flavorful tequila I've ever had. The aftertaste is amazing too. (My sister refused to try my gin so she could maintain the flowery-taste in her mouth).
The Gin Oomaw was just as flavor packed. I'll be honest with you. I'm not a huge gin-girl..but this one won my heart. Again, flavor packed. We sampled it in the same style - holding it and breathing in. I can see some Oomaw Gin and Tonics in my near future.
Not only does New World have amazing alcohols - they have awesome labels and swag. The graphic art was done by a local artist - and it will make you want to buy all the alcohols, as well as every hoodie, shirt, water bottle and hat with the designs on it. Good move, New World.
During the tasting, we were told that a batch of Vodka will be ready in the Summer. After my first experience at New World Distillery, their Vodka is one I will need to try as soon as it's out.