Story and Photos by Brianna Sullivan
The recently opened Mill Street Still and Brew, located on the corner of Mill Street and Holcomb Avenue, is a must on the Reno summer to-do list.
The building, originally a grocery store, was constructed in 1940. The décor is rustic with a modern twist, featuring the original truss ceilings, brick masonry, and maple hardwood floors. Inside the tap house there is both seating at the bar with a view of the distillery through big glass windows and various high-top tables. The tables and chairs are made from materials uncovered during demolition. They also have a dog-friendly (well-behaved dogs on leashes) outdoor patio area with additional seating.
They have both beer and spirits, with new products in the works. Beers currently include IPAs, Hefeweizen, pale, blonde and brown ales. Spirits include 10 Torr vodka, with whiskey and gin coming soon. Bourbon is still a few years out due to regulations.
Mill Street Still and Brew is owned by Whipple Brewing Co. The head brewer and distiller, Will Cody Whipple, was born and raised in Reno and earned a bachelor of science in chemical engineering from the University of Nevada, Reno. He’s incorporating his 10 years of experience working with a variety of materials into the design, process engineering, equipment design, procurement, fabrication, and operation of solvent extraction, vacuum distillation, refining and hydro-processing equipment for large and small industrial facilities.
The most unique feature is their proprietary cold distillation process, which occurs at extremely low pressure at room temperature. Traditional distillation methods use heat which creates chemical reactions that cause what Whipple says are unwanted, harsh flavors. Their state-of-the-art 10 Torr technology distills without added heat, thus giving the distiller more control throughout the process and a more unique, pure flavor.
The tap room is open Wednesday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and closed Sunday-Tuesday. They plan to expand their hours soon. For more information visit: http://millstreetstillandbrew.com/.
Bri is a recent Reno transplant, originally from Montana, and excited to explore the city and highlight local businesses and events. She is a full-time pharmacist, but enjoys writing and photography. She also has a personal blog.
