American Spirit: An Exploration of the Craft Distilling Revolution

by James Rodewald

Overview

Craft distilling has exploded in the United States in recent years, and this in-depth look at the intrepid characters at the forefront of the liquid revolution will have you rethinking what's in your liquor cabinet—and possibly your career choice. James Rodewald, a veteran journalist who spent more than a decade at Gourmet magazine, most of that time as Drinks Editor, traveled the country talking to the men and women at the heart of this remarkable industry about the challenges they face, the rewards of their hard work, and the delicious spirits they make. Along the way, myths are shattered, phonies are unmasked, and drinks-as well as a few tears-are spilled.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781454905332
Publisher:	Sterling Epicure
Publication date:	09/02/2014
Pages:	256
Product dimensions:	5.60(w) x 8.30(h) x 1.10(d)

About the Author

James Rodewald is the former Drinks Editor for Gourmet magazine (1998-2009). Since Gourmet shuttered, he has edited several wine and spirits books and authored a piece on the history of single-malt Scotch for Sterling Epicure's Barrels & Drams by William Dowd.

Table of Contents

Foreword Max Watman ix

Introduction xiv

Chapter 1 Unexpected Texas 1

Balcones Distilling 2

Garrison Brothers Distillery 15

Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling 18

Chapter 2 Rock Stars 25

Tuthiltown Spirits 26

Hillrock Estate Distillery 39

Chapter 3 Mr. Lucky 47

Las Vegas Distillery 48

Santa Fe Spirits 59

Chapter 4 Fruit and FIR 65

Clear Creek Distillery 66

Chapter 5 Grains of Truth 81

Koval and Corsair Distillery 82

Dry Fly Distilling 93

Chapter 6 Giving Vodka a Good Name 99

St George Spirits 100

Green Bar Craft Distillery 121

Project V distillery & Sausage Company 128

Chapter 7 California is for Brandy Lovers 135

German-Robin 136

Osocalis 145

Chapter 8 Brooklyn, It's Not Just for Hipsters 159

New York Distilling Company 160

Kings County Distillery 172

Van Brunt still House 179

Chapter 9 Doing it the Right Way 185

Laws Whiskey House 199

Wood in ville Whiskey Co. 202

Copperwork's Distilling Company 205

Epilogue 211

Notes 215

Glossary 221

Acknowledgments 228

Credits 229

Index 230

Editorial Reviews

The distillation of spirits played an important part in early American history, and in the last ten years, there has been an explosion of new craft distillers and “craft” products. Rodewald, former drinks editor at Gourmet, explores the changes in craft spirits production with profiles of several American distilleries and their colorful personnel. The murky legal limbo of state regulations is a major theme in the book, as is the co-­opting of the craft movement by larger manufacturers—caveat emptor, spirit lovers; many 'small batch' producers are simply relabelers. While recent books exist on historical distilling, and there are tasting guides, there isn’t anything quite like Rodewald’s journalistic look at the current scene. Note that this book is not a how-to guide; in fact, anyone considering the distillation business will think twice after reading about arcane and obstructive regulations, stiff competition, and the need for deep pockets. This volume is best read with something on the rocks; it will make you thirsty. Fortunately, the content includes nine cocktail recipes, as well as a glossary of terms.” —Library Journal

From the Publisher

11/01/2014
The distillation of spirits played an important part in early American history, and in the last ten years, there has been an explosion of new craft distillers and "craft" products. Rodewald, former drinks editor at Gourmet, explores the changes in craft spirits production with profiles of several American distilleries and their colorful personnel. The murky legal limbo of state regulations is a major theme in the book, as is the co-opting of the craft movement by larger manufacturers—caveat emptor, spirit lovers; many "small batch" producers are simply relabelers. While recent books exist on historical distilling, and there are tasting guides, there isn't anything quite like Rodewald's journalistic look at the current scene. Note that this book is not a how-to guide; in fact, anyone considering the distillation business will think twice after reading about arcane and obstructive regulations, stiff competition, and the need for deep pockets. This volume is best read with something on the rocks; it will make you thirsty. Fortunately, the content includes nine cocktail recipes, as well as a glossary of terms. VERDICT For fans of hard spirits and those interested in the food and beverage industries.—Devon Thomas, Chelsea, MI

Library Journal