Hot Springs, Arkansas, may be famous for the hot mineral waters and the beautiful Ouachita Mountains scenery. However, you need something enjoyable to sip on while enjoying these famous things to do in Hot Springs, AR. The Crystal Ridge Distillery is a local establishment that honors the rich history of Hot Springs while crafting unique spirits. Check out this ultimate guide to the best distillery to visit for a prohibition-era experience. 

Crystal Ridge Distillery Story 

Danny Bradley owns, is President, and CEO of Crystal Ridge Distillery. He is a local who grew up in the area and has long loved Hot Springs, AR. As an adult, he wanted to participate in the revitalization of Hot Springs. Additionally, he chose the former F.C. Stearns warehouse for the future site of his business. From the beginning, one of the core missions of the distillery was to create more jobs. Updating and renovating the building allows Danny to hire many people in the town. 

His father inspired him to choose a distillery as the business. Danny’s father, Charlie, attempted to become an illegal moonshiner. However, Danny’s mother strongly supported the temperance movement and quickly dumped the first batch upon her discovery of the still. 

The Crystal Ridge Distillery is a family business, with Danny’s wife, Mary, acting as the VP, CFO, and head of regulatory compliance. Their oldest son Asher works as a General Manager and CMO at the distillery. 

The F.C. Stearns warehouse

The building that the Crystal Ridge Distillery calls home is worth seeing. It was initially constructed somewhere between 1910 and 1920. Its purpose was to be a warehouse to hold products like furniture, hardware, and animal feed. Over the years, the building has been used for multiple purposes. Ultimately, this resulted in the building getting divided into three sections with added brick walls. When Danny purchased the building for his distillery, it was a Country Store. During the restoration of the building, old prohibition-era whiskey bottles were found under the flooring. 

Products 

The Crystal Ridge Distillery makes three products: moonshine, canned cocktails, and spirits. Traditional moonshine is illegal, but the moonshine in the Crystal Ridge Distillery is 100% legal. Moreover, the distilling team at Crystal Ridge Distillery works to blend traditional moonshine distilling with modern technology to create a smoother and richer flavor that stays true to classic moonshine spirits. 

Moonshine 

Similar to other areas in the country, there is a rich history of mountain moonshine distilling in the Ouachita Mountains. These distillers aim to honor that heritage with a line of moonshine spirits. Authenticity is upheld with the use of a traditional copper pot still in the same design that the original bootleggers used. The moonshine is strong, so sip carefully. However, the flavors are rich and satisfyingly smooth. 

• Mule Kick 
• Butterscotch 
• Apple Pie 
• Cinnamon 
• Espresso 
• Banana Cream 
• Honey Lemonade 
• Maple Bacon 
• Peach 
• Peanut Butter 
• Pecan Pie 
• Pineapple 
• Root Beer 
• Salted Caramel 
• Strawberry 

Canned Cocktails 

The latest trend in the liquor and spirits industry is pre-made canned cocktails. The team created six flavors of canned cocktails that are inspired by classic cocktails. The cocktails use the Crystal Ridge Distillery 63 vodka. They are 9% alcohol and come in four packs. These cocktails are ideal for those looking for a refreshing yet boozy drink. They feature natural fruit flavors without sugary syrups. Drink these canned cocktails responsibly, as each contains two vodka shots. 

• Twist O Lime 
• Black Cherry 
• Pina Colada 
• Spicy Melon-Rita 
• Strawberry Mojito 
• Sunrise Sipper 

Spirits 

The War Mule Vodka is distilled ten times to create a top-shelf product. This creates a pure and crisp vodka that has a clean flavor. It is perfect for crafting top-tier cocktails. It is produced in small batches to retain its craft status and quality. The finished spirit is 80 proof and crystal clear in color. 

The Crystal Ridge Distillery also produces bourbon and whiskey. Both are barrel aged in accordance with industry best practices standards. Each contains deep, flavorful notes that honor the tradition of bourbon and whiskey making in the American South. 

• Vodka 
• Bourbon 
• Whiskey 

Tours 

The tours offered by Crystal Ridge Distillery allow you to see the distillery’s inner workings. The tours are free and take place at 1 pm, 3 pm, and 5 pm Monday through Saturday. On Sunday, the tours are at 1 pm and 3 pm. The tour takes you through the 1920s building. You can admire the original beauty of the building while you learn about the distilling process. This is also your chance to meet Patrick, a 250-gallon copper and wood still. Additionally, the tour lasts about 30 minutes, and you don’t need to make a reservation to go on one. 

Tastings 

Located onsite is the Moonshine Saloon. You’ll need a reservation to visit and participate in a tasting. During operating hours, tastings are offered every 30 minutes. It costs $10 to attend. You can do a tasting after taking the tour or skip the tour and go straight to the tasting. The tasting menu changes seasonally. So, if you have gone before, consider going again. This lets you try new and interesting offerings from Crystal Ridge Distillery. 

Events

The Crystal Ridge Distillery is located in the former F.C. Stearns warehouse. It is a 1920s building converted into a distillery and event space. Additionally, it has been beautifully restored to feature the exposed beams and original brick. However, it has also been renovated to have modern technology and conveniences. The space is 3,600 square feet and capable of hosting 400 guests. Moreover, the distillery can host private parties, corporate events, and weddings. 

FAQs

Where can we stay when visiting Crystal Ridge Distillery? 

Several hotels near the Crystal Ridge Distillery are suitable for a range of tastes and budgets. The Hotel Hot Springs, All Seasons Lodge, Lotus by Hotel Inn, and Sends Central Inn are all within a few short miles of the distillery. 

Where can you buy Crystal Ridge Distillery products? 

You can purchase Crystal Ridge Distillery products at the distillery. They are also sold at several locations throughout the Hot Springs, Malvern, Benton, and Little Rock areas. 

How many distilleries are in Hot Springs, AR? 

There are two distilleries making spirits in Hot Springs, AR. The Crystal Ridge Distillery and Hot Springs Distilling LLC are located in the heart of Hot Springs. 

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