Tucked away in the picturesque hills of El Dorado County, Dry Diggings Distillery is a spirited homage to California’s Gold Rush, where the only thing more abundant than the gold was the creativity of those who sought it. This distillery, the first of its kind in the area in many years, has become a beacon for those who appreciate the art of distilling and the charm of local craftsmanship. So, grab your favorite drinking buddy, and let’s dig into what makes Dry Diggings an unmissable stop on your next adventure!
A Gold Rush Legacy
Located at 5050 Robert J Mathews Parkway, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762, Dry Diggings Distillery is steeped in the rich history of the Gold Rush. The name evokes images of rugged miners panning for fortune, but instead of sifting through dirt, you’ll be sifting through a delightful array of handcrafted spirits. Established in 2012, this family-owned distillery honors the courageous spirit of the Forty-Niners, those brave souls who risked it all for a chance at gold. Today, the distillery captures that same spirit of adventure in every bottle it produces.
Crafting Liquid Gold
At Dry Diggings, the motto is clear: if you’re going to dig, you might as well dig for flavor! The distillery specializes in various spirits, including bourbon, rye, vodka, and brandy, each crafted with local ingredients and recipes that reflect the area’s heritage. Unlike mass-produced spirits that often taste like they were distilled in a corporate factory, Dry Diggings embraces the unpredictability of the aging process, resulting in unique flavor profiles that are as varied as the hills themselves.
Their flagship bourbon is a must-try, offering a smooth, rich taste for sipping or mixing. And let’s not forget the Cabernet brandy, which has been known to turn even the most skeptical wine drinker into a fan. Each tasting is not just a chance to sample but an opportunity to explore the depth of flavors, guided by knowledgeable staff who are as passionate about spirits as they are about sharing them.
The Tasting Experience
Visiting Dry Diggings is like stepping into a friendly saloon where the only thing more welcoming than the staff is the spirits themselves. The tasting room, adorned with rustic decor, invites you to settle in and enjoy a flight of their finest offerings.
Hours of Operation:
- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Walk-ins are welcome, but if you plan to bring a group of five or more, make a reservation to ensure everyone gets a taste of the fun!
Educational Workshops
For those eager to learn more about distillation, Dry Diggings offers educational workshops, including the famous “build-a-bottle” gin class. You can unleash your inner alchemist by experimenting with various botanicals to create a personalized gin that reflects your taste. It’s a fun, hands-on experience that combines learning with a healthy dose of creativity—and who doesn’t want to leave with a bottle of their concoction?
Community Spirit
What truly sets Dry Diggings apart is its commitment to community. The distillery is not just a place to enjoy fine spirits; it’s a hub for locals and visitors alike to gather, share stories, and celebrate the art of distilling. The owners, including Cris Steller, a founding member of the California Artisanal Distillers Guild, have worked tirelessly to create a space that embodies the values of hard work and connection that defined the Gold Rush era.
Guests often leave with more than just bottles; they leave with friendships forged over shared tastings and laughter. The distillery also hosts special events and tastings throughout the year, allowing you to connect with fellow spirit enthusiasts and the local community.
The Perfect Day Trip
El Dorado Hills is a stunning area, making Dry Diggings Distillery a perfect stop for a day trip. Whether wine tasting in the nearby vineyards or hiking the scenic trails, visiting the distillery offers a refreshing break. Plus, it’s conveniently located just a short drive from Sacramento, making it an easy getaway for those looking to escape the city.
Dry Diggings Distillery stands out as a beacon of craftsmanship and community in a world where spirits often feel mass-produced and impersonal. With its rich history, artisanal spirits, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a place where every visit feels like a celebration of the past and a toast to the future. So, whether you’re a local or a traveler passing through, stop by Dry Diggings Distillery in El Dorado Hills. After all, life is too short for mediocre spirits—dig into something exceptional!
Source: drydiggings.com
Header Image Source: distilling.com
