Studio Distilling Spotlight

The Minnesota distilling scene is something special. There’s a unique dedication to craft and quality over quantity in this northern state. You’ll find several small-batch distillers who truly enjoy what they do, and Studio Distilling is certainly no exception. Let’s take a look at what makes this Minnesota distillery so special – and why you should pop in to visit.

What Makes Studio Distilling Special?

Studio Distilling is one of those local brands that has a “suit and tie” vibe without the outrageous prices. The team at Studio Distilling is dedicated to performing every step of spirit making in-house – from mashing to bottling. Their products are small batch, “modern interpretations” of the spirits you already know and love.

Meet the Team:

The Studio Distilling team is small but mighty! The brand is headed by Brad Rolfs, founder, distiller, and managing partner. He is helped by Shelly Daily, managing partner. The two work together to run the distilling business and craft the spirits offered by the brand.

Studio Distilling Spirits

The Studio Distilling lineup is also small but mighty. There are seven different spirits that are listed on their products page. All bottles are sold in 375mL portions.

Rye Malt Whiskey

94 Proof; 2019 – Double Gold: San Francisco World Spirits Competition

This is a smooth, spicy rye whiskey with a touch of sweetness. During the process of making this whiskey, smoked barley and roasted rye are used; this adds a “smooth, toasted finish with a note of dark chocolate.”

Recommended cocktails for this spirit include the Sazerac, Hot Rye Cider, The Revolver, Banana Daisy, Rye Summer Smash, Summer Squeeze, Chocolate Manhattan, and the Blinker.

Bourbon Whiskey

92 Proof; 2019 – Silver: San Francisco World Spirits Competition

This bourbon is crafted from two different types of barley to add complexity to the spirit’s corn profile. Rye is also used to add spice. The distillers at Studio Distilling use a “specially selected yeast delivering delicate notes of dark fruit” for this spirit.

Recommended cocktails for this spirit include the Maple-Bourbon Cider, Easy Eggnog for Two, Fall From Grace, Saint Paul Mule, Pink Grapefruit Whiskey Sour, From the Hot Afternoon, Mint Julep, and Spiked Root Beer Float.

Exhibition Gin

92 Proof; 2022 – Silver; San Francisco World Spirits Competition

This gin is “so smooth it can be enjoyed by itself” – something that is hard to do with a gin! Studio Distilling uses an exclusive, proprietary mix of botanicals (not skipping out on traditional choices like juniper, coriander, and grains of paradise). They also divulge that heather, plum, and sansho pepper are used to set their gin apart from all others on the market.

Recommended cocktails for this spirit include the Ramos Gin Fizz, Janie’s Gimlet, The Odyssey, and the Classic Negroni.

Masala Chai Flavored Whiskey

92 Proof

If you’re looking for something a bit different, the Masala Chai Whiskey certainly over-delivers. This spirit uses a rye malt whiskey base, then Assam tea and whole spices are added. After blending, this spirit goes into oak barrels, where it develops its gorgeous color. Overall, this one has a “malty, nutty foundation and overtones of cardamom, mace, and ginger.”

Check out the recommended cocktails here.

Earl Grey Tea Flavored Whiskey

92 Proof

This fun whiskey starts out as a bourbon base. To this base, a secret mix of white and black tea are added, along with bergamot peel and vanilla bean. Finally, the blend is aged in oak barrels for color and flavor. The final spirit is earthy, warm, and caramel-ey, “complemented by overtones of citrus and orange.”

Check out the recommended cocktails here.

Other Flavored Whiskeys

Studio distilling also had a hops & elderflower flavored whiskey and a coffee & chocolate flavored whiskey (both 94 proof); both are currently sold out with no indication that they’ll be returning.

Where to Buy Studio Distilling Spirits

You can order their spirits directly from the Studio Distilling website, but it’s for store pickup only. Additionally, per Minnesota state law, sales are limited to two 375ml bottles (per person per day).

You can find their spirits in retailers across Minnesota, too. You can use their retail finder on their website here. Please note that you may also occasionally come across local spirits like Studio Distilling on sites like Drizzly for resale. Use caution when going this route.

Other Fun Products: Craft Infusion Cocktail Kits

If you’re looking for something fun to do with a 375mL bottle of vodka… the Studio Distilling craft infusion cocktail kits are definitely a must try. Simply pour a clear, neutral spirit into the provided jar, then steep with the provided, dry ingredients according to package directions. In no time, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind spirit for making cocktails at home! The distillery also graciously offers cocktail recipes for you to use your home-infused spirits with.

Check it out here →

Studio Distilling: Distillery Tours

If you are looking for a fun adventure through a local Minnesota distillery, Studio Distilling offers a 90-minute tour, complete with a souvenir Studio Distilling Glencairn Tasting Glass. You’ll also go home with three ½ oz samples to try in your new glass!

Tours are $20 per person for groups of three or more guests. Smaller groups will be considered, but the price is $60 as a flat rate. The team at Studio Distilling asks that you please reschedule or cancel at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled time for a full refund. Otherwise, your fee is not refundable. To book a tour, contact info@studiodistilling.com.

Location & Contact

Studio distilling is located at 2380 Wycliff St #140, St Paul, MN 55114. Their phone number is not listed on their website, but you can email them at info@studiodistilling.com. They also have a contact form on their website for inquiries. They are open Friday from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM and Saturday from 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM; they are closed every other day of the week.

Studio Distilling: Support Local, Craft Distilling

Are you looking for a new local spot to enjoy on a weekend? If so, Studio Distilling might be calling your name! Make sure to pop in and try their delicious, small batch spirits, or schedule a distillery tour! Enjoy!