As the lower 48’s least populated state, there are twice as many cattle as there are people. This could lead you to believe that there is a lack of distilleries. However, there is a small yet passionate craft distillery scene in Wyoming. While Wyoming Whiskey may be the most well-known and considered the best distillery in Wyoming, there are several others worth visiting. This is the ultimate Wyoming distillery guide to the best distillery tours in Wyoming. 

Wyoming Distillery & Wyoming Whiskey

While some distilleries attempt to make several types of craft spirits, the team at Wyoming Whiskey focuses on being the best distillery at making whiskey. They have nine different varieties, all a different take on whiskey. There is also the limited edition line of four specialty whiskeys inspired by the wide open spaces of Wyoming. You can take a distillery tour that gives you a behind-the-scenes look at everything from fermentation to distillation. At the end of your official tour, you’ll head from the aging house to the Whiskey Shop. There you can enjoy complimentary tastings and check out the shop. 

Cowboy Country Distilling

The craft spirits at Cowboy Country Distilling embrace the spirit of the “old west.” The water used is from the nearby snow-capped mountains. Each spirit is carefully hand-crafted to have bold flavors and a smooth finish. The craft spirit lineup is unique, making this one of the best distilleries in Wyoming for those looking for something different. Try the raspberry cordial, coffee liqueur, jalapeno bacon vodka, or maple whiskey. 

Koltiska Distillery

The Koltiska family has lived in Wyoming for five generations. In 2001, the family founded the Koltiska Distillery. Four spirits are in the line, three different liqueurs and vodka. When visiting, sign up for the distillery tour. When you’re done touring, you can sample the spirits. There are also weekly cocktail specials. A unique product offering from Koltiska Distillery is hand sanitizer. Pick up a bottle for yourself and take it home as a unique souvenir.

Backwards Distilling Company

Pull back the curtain of distilling at the Backwoods Distilling Company. You’ll find the best quality ingredients distilled in small batches to create delectable craft spirits. There is a theatrical theme to the craft spirits that give it a unique design. The spirit lineup includes contortionist gin, sword swallower rum, ringleader gin, frankenbourbon, and absinthe. This distillery welcomes visitors to tour and see “behind the curtain.” There are cocktail classes offered that will teach you how to make craft cocktails using the Backwards Distilling Company craft spirits. 

Brush Creek Distillery

The Brush Creek Distillery aims to capture Wyoming’s wild and untamed essence. This is “big country,” and you’ll experience this when visiting the distillery. The distillery team aims to honor the state’s natural wonder with an on-site greenhouse, locally foraged berries, and the freshest ingredients possible. Its craft spirits include bourbon whiskey, rye whiskey, gin, and vodka. If you want to take a distillery tour and tasting, it is $25, and you must book in advance. In addition to the iconic distillery, there is a Brush Creek Bakery, the Cheyenne Club, Brush Creek Celler, Spirits Vault, and Medicine Bow Creamery. The bakery, club, and creamery use elements of the distilling process to create craft spirit-infused baked goods, plates, and cheeses. Consider staying at the Brush Creek Ranch for an all-inclusive experience. 

Jackson Hole Still Works

The Jackson Hole Still Works team takes a grain-to-glass approach to their small-batch distilling. They start with high-quality local grains and mountain water. They then use a hands-on distilling approach to create their unique craft spirits. Sustainability is paramount, so pent grains are donated to a local farm for animal feed. Efforts are also taken to reduce the distillery’s carbon footprint. Each bottle is artfully created to be a beautiful container for craft spirits. The lineup includes gin and vodka. However, be sure to order a Sloshie when you visit. It is a Jackson Hole classic that is an alcoholic slushie. You’re welcome to take a distillery tour; just book it online before you go. 

Pine Bluffs Distilling

Innovation makes Pine Bluffs Distilling one of the best distilleries in Wyoming. Everything is done in-house, with no malts brought in. Additionally, there is no chill filtering here. Instead, embracing the haze and cloudiness that they believe enhances the flavor. The craft spirit lineup includes wheat bourbon whiskey, rye bourbon whiskey, rye whiskey, and oat whiskey. While there are no distillery tours offered, there is a tasting room that you can visit. 

History of Wyoming Distillery Tours & Craft Spirits

The temperance movement reached the Rockies in the early 20th century. While the states surrounding Wyoming buckled first, in 1919, Wyoming buckled under pressure. This was one year before the federal ban on alcohol. With a statewide ban on alcohol in place, the established distilleries went underground. Eventually, they were found and stamped out. Despite prohibition ending, it wouldn’t be until the 21st century that a distillery would open its doors in Wyoming again. Today, about a dozen distilleries are operating in the state. Some are established by long-standing families with a rich history in private distilling. Others are fresh start-ups from innovators looking to make their mark on this growing industry. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Wyoming Distillery Adventures

What liquor is Wyoming known for?

Moonshine is the most well-known liquor distilled in Wyoming. Additionally, the moonshine dates back to when settlers made their own alcohol, through prohibition and moonshine runners, up to today when distillers make legal versions of the liquor. 

What is the oldest Wyoming distillery statewide?

The oldest distillery in Wyoming is the Wyoming Whiskey Distillery in Kirby. It was founded by the Mead family in 2009. Originally, ranchers and the family set out to showcase the beauty of their state by using high-quality local ingredients. 

Can you drink alcohol in public in Wyoming or at a Wyoming distillery tour?

Several liquor laws impact how distilleries can sample and sell their craft spirits. However, those enjoying it are not so restricted. While you cannot have an open container in a vehicle, no law prevents you from walking with an open container. 

Explore the best distilleries in each state with the help of Distillery Nearby.