The Midwest has some fantastic and expertly run distilleries which make different types of high-quality alcohol, be it spirits, wine, beer, and more. Some of these distilleries also provide excellent tours, thanks to their well-informed and friendly guides. This post is the ultimate guide to eight distilleries you must visit across the Midwest that will give you a memorable experience. 

1. Union Horse Distillery 

Union Horse Distillery is famous for making sweet-tasting small-batch spirits; for only $17, you can see their entire production process. The company provides one general tour every month, though you can also book a private tour at an extra fee.

Before you start touring, the guide will give you a detailed account of the company’s history. Afterward, you’ll get to see their machines and employees at work making their classic drinks. Once you complete the tour, the guide will direct you to the “Rider Room,” where you can sample their unique cocktails and great spirits.

Location: 11740 W 86th Terrace, Lenexa, KS 66214
Phone: +1 913- 492-3275

2. Copperwing Distillery

Copperwing offers tours once a week, on Saturdays. The management explains that it’s primarily due to their tight production deadlines. Tours cost $10, and you get a complimentary glass plus multiple tastings of their top spirits.

At the distillery, you will undoubtedly notice that their staff are friendly and have deep knowledge of their roles. Also, the company has put much effort into making its venue more appealing. After the tour, you can hang around and buy one or two of their signature cocktail drinks that don’t disappoint. The bartender can help you create your signature cocktail when the bar isn’t too busy.

Location: 6409 Cambridge St, St Louis Park, MN 55426
Phone: + 612-293-6157

3. Red Pine Distillery

Red Pine is among the few distilleries that make their spirits using only locally sourced ingredients and offer excellent tours. Their guides will walk you through all the steps, from how they source the ingredients to the bottling of the finished product, while giving you different samples to taste.

Apart from their familiar spirits, the tour also includes tastings of some of their drinks still under production. Most people praise the distilleries Suga Beet Vodka, so ensure you try it out. The company is also developing new gin, bourbon, and whiskey lines.

Location: 4051 Gateway Dr, Grand Forks, ND 58203

4. Watershed Distillery 

You should stop at the Watershed Distillery in Ohio if you are a gin enthusiast. From the moment you walk in, the company’s staff will welcome you, and you’ll get a comprehensive look at how they make their internationally acclaimed spirits. You’ll also sample some of their classic drinks.

After the tour, the guides will direct you to the distillery’s contemporary-styled restaurant. Here you will enjoy a meal accompanied by an incredible cocktail made by their experienced bartenders. Watershed Distilleries’ Four Peel Gin is a top favorite for many visitors thanks to its relaxed, smooth finish. However, the smokey notes of their Apple Brandy also attract a sizeable crowd.

Location: 1145 Chesapeake Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
Phone: +1 614-357-1936

5. Templeton Rye Distillery 

For a measly $10, you can tour the Templeton Rye distillery, which has an educational visitor center. While touring, you’ll learn about the company’s unique and intricate spirit-making process. There will be plenty of tastings to finish the day on a high note. The guide will also invite you to check out their spacious visitor center, which has museum exhibits from parts of the local community. 

Of all the spirits available for tasting, the company’s rye whiskey seems to keep attracting visitors, mainly because of its special kick that’s hard to find in other whiskey drinks. It sells out quickly, so you must book a bottle in advance.

Location: 209 Rye Ave, Templeton, IA 51463
Phone: +1 712-669-8793

6. Glacial Lakes Distillery

Glacial Lakes is famous for its premium quality rum, vodka, and highly informative distillery tours. Even though the company runs a small facility, they make up for it by having style and class.

Additionally, their guides explain to visitors how they source ingredients and the complete production process. You will also learn about the marketing side of the industry, information most distilleries don’t provide during tours.

The company’s handcrafted small-batch vodka that’s hand-bottled has won numerous awards. Though if you aren’t a vodka fan, their rum will satisfy your taste buds.

Location: 200 S Main Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104
Phone: +1 605-271-5087

7. Old Sugar Distillery 

Madison is a city that has many exciting activities and has arguably one of the best distilleries in the Midwest. Old Sugar offers guided tastings on Saturdays costing $14 per person, and they clearly understand how to care for their customers.

While touring, you will learn about the historical importance of the distillery’s drinks and how they have evolved over the years. You will get six different tasting samples and a cocktail as a guest.

Location: 931 E Main St#8, Madison, WI 53703
Phone: +1 608-260-0812

8. Panther Distillery 

For whiskey lovers, this is the ideal Midwest distillery tour to check out. Though it isn’t as large as the other distilleries on the list, it has a cozy and friendly atmosphere that you will love.

To taste some of their spirits, you’ll have to pay a small fee of $10. The tastings include samples and shot glasses you can keep as a souvenir.

Location: 300 E Pike St, Osakis, MN 56360
Phone: +1 320-760-5002

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do distillery tours take?

It depends on the size of the distillery. Some distilleries are large, and others small. However, tours can take from thirty minutes to an hour on average.

Do all distilleries in the Midwest charge for tours?

Some will not charge for the tours, but you must pay for the tasting. In contrast, other Midwest distilleries include the tasting in the tour price.

How do I book a distillery tour?

Most of the companies have websites where you can make bookings. Also, call in advance so you don’t arrive when there is a crowd.

Find All Your Favorite Distilleries with Distillery Nearby

Apart from the breathtaking tourist attractions, the Midwest is home to some of the globe’s best distilleries, making excellent spirits. At Distillery Nearby, we aim to provide spirit lovers with all they need to know about their favorite drinks and the distilleries that make them. Visit our website to find more distilleries near you or for more information.