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A history of Portland distillers

The history of distilleries and alcohol in Portland, Oregon, is a tale of craftsmanship, innovation, and the vibrant spirit of the Pacific Northwest. From the early days of pioneering settlers to the modern craft distillery movement, Portland has been at the forefront of producing unique and exceptional spirits. This comprehensive article explores the evolution of distilleries and the alcohol industry in Portland, delving into its rich history, significant milestones, key players, and the enduring legacy that has shaped the city's reputation as a hub for artisanal beverages.

• Early Beginnings and Pioneering Settlers (Mid-19th Century): In the mid-19th century, pioneering settlers brought the knowledge and traditions of distilling to Portland. Notable among these early distillers was James Skirving, who established one of the first distilleries in the region in 1846. Skirving's whiskey and brandy catered to the growing demand for alcohol among the early settlers, providing them with a taste of familiar spirits in their new surroundings.

• The Prohibition Era (1920-1933): The enactment of Prohibition in 1920 dealt a severe blow to the distilling industry in Portland. Legal production of alcoholic beverages came to a halt, and the sale and distribution of alcohol became illegal. However, the demand for spirits persisted, leading to the rise of illicit activities. One notable figure during this time was Roy Olmstead, a former police lieutenant turned bootlegger. Roy Olmstead, known as the "King of the Puget Sound Bootleggers," operated a vast and sophisticated operation that smuggled alcohol from Canada into the Pacific Northwest. He used innovative methods such as hidden compartments in vehicles and radio communication systems to avoid detection by law enforcement. Olmstead's notoriety and successful evasion of authorities made him a central figure in the illegal alcohol trade, contributing to the thriving underground alcohol culture during Prohibition. While Olmstead's activities were primarily focused on Seattle, his influence extended to Portland and the surrounding areas. The bootlegging networks established during Prohibition laid the foundation for the resurgence of legal distilleries in the years to come, as the knowledge and infrastructure developed during this time would later contribute to the craft distillery movement.

• Post-Prohibition Rebirth (1933-1960s): With the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, distilleries slowly began to reemerge in Portland. However, the industry faced challenges due to stringent regulations and the dominance of large-scale commercial distillers. Despite these hurdles, some distilleries managed to establish a presence during this time, catering to niche markets and showcasing their craftsmanship. One prominent distillery that emerged during this period was Clear Creek Distillery, founded by Stephen McCarthy in 1985. McCarthy's passion for fruit-based spirits led him to produce world-class eaux-de-vie and liqueurs using locally sourced fruits. Clear Creek Distillery's focus on traditional European distillation methods and commitment to quality garnered international recognition, putting Portland on the map as a destination for artisanal spirits.

• Craft Distillery Renaissance (Late 20th Century - Present): The turn of the 21st century witnessed a resurgence of interest in craft distilling in Portland. Inspired by the success of the craft brewing movement, entrepreneurs sought to apply the same principles to spirits. One notable pioneer is House Spirits Distillery, founded by Christian Krogstad and Lee Medoff in 2004. House Spirits Distillery gained international recognition with its flagship product, Aviation Gin, helping to popularize the craft gin revival. The craft distillery movement in Portland was influenced not only by the traditions of the past but also by the innovative spirit of the Pacific Northwest. Roy Olmstead's bootlegging operations, while illegal, demonstrated the entrepreneurial spirit and ingenuity that would later drive the craft distillery movement. The need to develop creative solutions for evading authorities during Prohibition fostered a culture of innovation, resourcefulness, and experimentation that would shape the future of distilling in Portland.

• Distilling Diversity and Innovation (2000s - Present): The success of craft distilleries in Portland paved the way for a diverse range of spirits to enter the market. Bull Run Distillery, founded in 2010 by Lee Medoff and Patrick Bernards, gained acclaim for its Temperance Trader Bourbon, combining traditional distilling methods with a Pacific Northwest twist. New Deal Distillery, established in 2004 by Tom Burkleaux, emerged as a leader in producing small-batch vodkas, gins, and liqueurs, utilizing local ingredients and innovative techniques. The emphasis on local sourcing, sustainable practices, and experimentation with unique flavors and botanicals became defining characteristics of Portland's craft distilleries. These distilleries not only contributed to the city's reputation for exceptional spirits but also helped revive and redefine the art of distilling in the Pacific Northwest.

• The Rise of Micro-Distilleries and Tasting Rooms (2010s - Present): As the craft distillery movement gained momentum, micro-distilleries and tasting rooms flourished in Portland. These intimate spaces allowed distillers to engage directly with consumers, offering them an immersive experience and a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind the products. Visitors could learn about the distilling process, sample a variety of spirits, and gain insight into the local ingredients and techniques used. Eastside Distilling, founded by Lenny Gotter in 2008, became known for its wide range of spirits, including whiskey, vodka, rum, and specialty liqueurs. Their tasting room provided a platform for consumers to interact with the distilling team, fostering a sense of community and collaboration within the industry.

• Collaborations and Community Support: Portland's distilling community fostered a collaborative spirit, with distilleries often working together to share knowledge, resources, and equipment. The Oregon Distillers Guild, established in 2007, played a crucial role in advocating for the interests of distilleries, promoting responsible consumption, and supporting legislative efforts. Through collaborative events, workshops, and educational initiatives, the guild nurtured a supportive community and created opportunities for distillers to learn from one another.

• Portland's Distilling Legacy: Today, Portland stands as a vibrant hub for artisanal spirits, with numerous distilleries and tasting rooms dotting the city's landscape. The international recognition of Portland's spirits industry has further bolstered the city's reputation as a destination for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. Prominent distilleries and brands that continue to shape Portland's distilling legacy include House Spirits Distillery, Clear Creek Distillery, Bull Run Distillery, New Deal Distillery, and Eastside Distilling.

The history of distilleries and alcohol in Portland, Oregon, is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. From the early pioneers to the modern craft distillers, Portland's distilling legacy continues to evolve, showcasing the city's commitment to producing exceptional spirits that embody the spirit of the Pacific Northwest. The influence of notable figures like Roy Olmstead and the collaboration among distillers have shaped the industry's trajectory, allowing Portland to carve out a distinct place in the world of artisanal spirits.