Tempe distillery in good spirits after winning award for bourbon
Jul 24, 2017, 4:30 AM | Updated: Jul 25, 2017, 10:07 am
(Arizona Distilling Co. Photo)
PHOENIX — One local distillery has got a shot at keeping Arizona’s craft beverage scene growing and in good spirits.
“Three years in a row, we’ve got three double gold medals for three different products,” said Jason Grossmiller, co-owner of Arizona Distilling Co.
Their Copper City Bourbon just won double gold in the coveted San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The bourbon was finished in a cabernet wine barrel from Arizona Stronghold Vineyards.
Previous wins were for their Commerce Gin and Mission Vodka.
From breweries, wineries and spirits the Arizona craft beverage industry in general is growing.
“We’re happy to be part of that growth and really represent Arizona as best as we can,” he said. “Tell stories through our spirits about Arizona that most people wouldn’t think happened in Arizona.”
The toughest challenge for local brewers, vineyards and distilleries is big brands.
“It’s tough when you’re going up against the big brands and they have deep pockets,” he said.
Those resources are critical to get a product in stores and behind bars.
“It’s like a mom and pop [store] going up against Wal-Mart and that’s almost impossible,” he said
But as a self-described Arizona nerd, Grossmiller says they intend to keep putting out quality products with a rich local story.
With products in five states now, Grossmiller says they’re literally giving the country a taste of Arizona.