The Oregonian in Portland takes a look at the relationship between brewing and microdistilling. Of the approximately 90 craft distilleries in the U.S. nine are in Oregon, and at least four more Oregon distilleries are planned to open this year.
“Spirits will be the most dynamic growth over the next five years,” said Jim Parker, the former director of the Oregon Brewers Guild, the craft beer industry group. “They’ll grow from a handful to perhaps two dozen. And look for more than just white spirits such as vodka. Expect to see more rums, whiskeys and fruit brandies made from Oregon ingredients — you’ll see distillers experimenting more.”
Parker is in the process of opening a new brewpub, Green Dragon Ale House, where the surrounding 12 square blocks are already home to three craft distilleries and two brewery/pubs. A distillery will go in next door and and Parker’s brewery will supply the base for some of the spirits.