Sunrise And Sunset - Along With The SW Minne Tour

The sun rose over the distillery this morning as we were busy making vodka and gin, and only one thing came to mind (other than the vodka and gin of course), these are some of the most glorious days in Minnesota. 

Sunrise Over J. Carver Distillery

Cool nights and crisp morning air, along with views of breathtaking morning mist dancing across many of our 10,000 lakes, including Lake Waconia, as the sun rises giving us afternoon warmth...this can mean only one thing, autumn in Minnesota is here. 

This is the time so many travel around the state soaking in the sights and smells of the season.  At J. Carver Distillery, we are very grateful to be surrounded by so many wineries and breweries who are buzzing with activity as many customers visit their tap rooms and sampling rooms taking in everything these businesses have to offer from new vintages of wine to the latest seasonal ales on tap. These are exciting times for Waconia and its surrounding communities.

Picturesque Lake Waconia

Our distillery, and our local breweries and wineries worked with Stephanie and Lori from the SW Metro Chamber of Commerce to set up the SW Minne Beer, Wine & Spirits Tour. Many of you, our distillery friends, have shared with us how much you have enjoyed your visits to these businesses and have asked when we will be open for distillery tours and tastings. We are looking forward to that day, but for now, we are focusing our efforts on getting our products to all of the local liquor stores and area restaurants. We are working on vodka and gin and many other distinctive spirits for you to try. From vodka and gin, to bourbon, brandy and whiskey, we are committed to producing distinct spirits inspired by a tradition of craft and curiosity made with local ingredients just down the road. There will be much more information published on our website in the coming weeks informing you of when and where you can find our products. We look forward to seeing you at your liquor stores in the coming months as we pour samples and have you taste our products. Stay tuned to our website for more information.

Sunset Over Lake Waconia

As this gorgeous day comes to an end and the sun is setting, another thing comes to mind…we are still here making vodka and gin…and couldn't be happier! J. Carver – Spirits of Discovery.

"Gin Boom" - Tasty Creations with Minnesota Craft Spirits

There is a buzz around town with people excited about the booming Minnesota micro-distillery industry. It’s exciting to see these local spirits being produced, purchased and people creating tasty cocktails from them. I am heading to The Ritz Theater in Minneapolis next Tuesday for an event called "Tastemakers" hosted by Stephanie March & Dara Moskowitz Grumdahl. This event will be attended by individuals passionate about the local spirits scene and the “Gin Boom”. I fall into that category, so I will be joining other gin lovers enjoying “a spirited discussion” about Minnesota gin and the Minnesota Craft Distillery industry. 

The timing couldn't be more perfect for today’s blog. As promised for those of you who subscribe to our newsletter, The Good Gossip, I am posting a refreshing gin cocktail recipe. Check it out and give it a whirl. It's nummy! Mix gin with blackcurrant liqueur (Crème de cassis), freshly squeezed lemon, a dash of simple syrup and garnish with a lemon peel. Serve with an appetizer made with slices of toasted banquette from your local bakery topped with a four pepper goat cheese and drizzled with black currant preserves. Don’t be afraid to zest lemon on top of the preserves for the finishing touch. The drink and appetizer recipes are easy to make and a perfect way to start an evening of fun. These are exciting times for the craft spirit industry, Minnesota Distilleries, and our future J. Carver Gin.