Walking through the front door of Verdi Distillery feels like stepping back in time. Frequenting any businesses on that stretch of Old Highway 40 feels a bit like walking onto the set of an old western. But as the local watering hole, nostalgic doesn’t mean boring. Verdi Distillery is anything but dull, hocking their (often flavored) spirits to neighbors and visitors alike.
Whether you choose your seat in the quaint inside (where distilling takes place) or take advantage of the expansive outdoor patio with a full stage and lawn games, you should settle in for a good time. The bartenders are happy to pour their fuss-free cocktails (no egg yolks and dried fruit garnishes here) as long as you want to stay and hang out. But it’s important to note that these drinks are strong, even if they go down easy. Plus, they are served in big old mason jars, so, you know, don’t overdo it.
The menu changes, but many of the spirits stay the same. One of the best ways to sample the lot is the sampler platter (and yes, platter is the correct word). You can get mini shots of each spirit simultaneously, tasting everything from Apple Cinnamon Whiskey to Yeti Jackalope Gin. I was especially surprised at the flavored whiskeys like lemon and garlic, which are more routinely flavors found in lighter spirits such as vodka and gin. And if you want whiskey in your Bloody Mary, that garlic variety is the perfect fit.
A true standout is the Offkiltur Peanut Butter Whiskey, a delicious, no-chaser-needed sipper that may as well be dessert. As an added bonus for anyone with a nut allergy, the product is nut-free. Don’t let those sweet tastes fool you, though—these aren’t low in proof.
For a warm summer day, I can’t recommend the Watermelon Sugar High enough. Made with their delicious watermelon whiskey (another fruity surprise from the brand’s line-up of whiskeys), the cocktail uses sprigs of fresh mint from the garden and grapefruit soda (read Squirt) to finish.
The Casual Friday is more than a fun name. This pineapple-forward refresher is made with the brand’s pineapple gin, tonic, and citrus. The Verdi Mule gives the classic drink a twist, made with Apple Cinnamon Whiskey, ginger beer, and citrus.
The PBC&C is another warm-weather favorite, giving you a much-needed jolt of energy along with your whiskey cocktail. Using the Offkiltur Peanut Butter Whiskey and the 27 Club Coffee Whiskey, it’s easily mixed with cold brew coffee, Monin Coconut Syrup and a splash of cream for that perfect mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
That’s only a tiny sampling of what’s on the menu. While the website features a few options, we warn that the menu when you step inside may be completely different (based on the seasons and what liquor is available).
When you’re done, remember to stock up so you can recreate favorites at home. Verdi Distillery is constantly developing new liquors and some non-alcoholic specials, including BBQ sauce and pickle juice.
The business is open Tuesday through Sunday from 2-8 p.m.
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1155 Old Highway 40 Unit B, Verdi
