Heather Madsen
If you’re looking for ways to support your local community while also having a good time, then look no further than Utah’s Spirit Trail. The “trail” will take you to twelve of Utah’s local and most popular distilleries where you’ll learn how spirits are made, who makes them, and if you’re lucky, which new locally sourced and crafted spirit is your favorite.
Each distillery was started in Utah, employs Utah residents, sources ingredients from Utah, and gives back to Utah’s economy and communities. Supporting these craftsmen is a great way to buy local and support small businesses. Plus, each distillery offers at least one of the following; tours, tastings, spirits, and/or merchandise, when you visit them as a part of the Spirit Trail experience. Not only is the tour fun (and tasty), but it’s also a great way to learn about the products that you’re consuming. From the origin of the produce and grains used to make spirits, to the chemistry of distilling it down to alcohol, you’ll learn exactly what is in your glass and where it came from.
And while there is a lot of science involved in distilling spirits, there’s also an art to it, so don’t let the word “chemistry” scare you away! These distillers spend months or even years making spirits before they ever land on the shelf and they hand-tailor their own flavors, unique recipes, and cocktails. You’ll find some amazing products like JP’s World Famous Whiskey Pancake Syrup at Hammer Spring Distillers, old fashioned moonshine at Outlaw Distillery, and so much more. It’s like nothing you’ve ever experienced and a whole new world of creativity. So come learn about this incredible art form and the history it has in Utah, and have a great (and maybe tipsy) time while doing it!
Sprinter van tours with designated drivers, reservations, and more information can be found at utahspirittrail.com.
