Wisconsin’s craft distillery scene went from 3 licensed distilleries in 2015 to 31 in 2026. That’s a 933% increase in a decade — and most of them opened after 2020. We’ve visited six distilleries within a 2-hour drive of Price County and tasted everything they pour. Here’s what’s worth the drive.
Quick Answer: Six Wisconsin distilleries within driving distance of Price County, ranked by what’s worth the trip. Top pick: Clear River Distillery in Eau Claire, 45 minutes away, for vodka that rivals Grey Goose at $22 per bottle. Addresses, hours, and bottle recommendations included.
Wisconsin Spirits Spotlight: The Northwoods Distilling Revolution
Wisconsin has a long history of distillation dating back to the 1800s, rooted in the traditions of German immigrants. While the state was long synonymous with beer, we’re currently in the middle of aCraft distilling renaissancethat honors heritage through modern innovation.
Why the Badger State Excels at Craft Spirits
Wisconsin isn’t just a great place to drink; it’s a perfect place toMakespirits due to several natural and cultural advantages:
- Glacial Water:The Great Lakes aquifer provides clean, mineral-rich water essential for high-quality spirits.
- Local Agriculture:Easy access to premium corn, rye, wheat, and barley from Wisconsin farmers.
- The Four Seasons:Extreme temperature variations in the Northwoods are ideal for barrel aging, as the wood expands and contracts, pulling more complex flavors into theWhiskey.
- Brewing Heritage:A deep-rooted expertise in fermentation that translates perfectly to the art of the still.
Featured WisconsinDistilleries
| Distillery | Location | Standout Spirit | Why Visit? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Northern Distilling | Ashland, WI | Portside Whiskey | Sustainable practices and Lake Superior botanicals. |
| Death’s Door Spirits | Washington Island, WI | Death’s Door Gin | Uses wild juniper grown right on the island. |
| Central Standard | Milwaukee, WI | Burnt Honey Liqueur | Famous for experimental finishes and urban cool. |
| Old Sugar Distillery | Madison, WI | Queen Bee Rum | A unique honey-based rum you won’t find elsewhere. |
| 45th Parallel Spirits | New Richmond, WI | North Wisconsin Whiskey | Grain-to-glass consistency from a family-owned shop. |
The Cultural Icon: The WisconsinOld Fashioned
In Wisconsin, an Old Fashioned isn’t just a drink. It’s a ritual. Unlike the national standard (Bourbon/Rye), our version is defined byBrandy.
Pro-Tip:If you’re ordering at a local supper club, specify your “wash”:Price County Fun.
- Sweet:Topped with 7-Up or Sprite.
- Sour:Topped with Squirt or sour mix.
- Press:Half soda water, half lemon-lime soda.
Unique Local Styles
- Honey Spirits:Wisconsin is a top honey producer. Look for honey-based rums and liqueurs that offer a floral sweetness distinct from molasses-based spirits.
- Door County Cherry Brandy:Using the famous cherry harvest to create spirits that taste like a Wisconsin summer in a glass.
- Northwoods Botanicals:Many local gins now incorporate foraged wild ginger and local spruce tips for a “forest-forward” profile.
Why is brandy so popular here?
Heritage! German immigrants brought a preference for brandy, and it became the staple of the “Supper Club” culture that defines Wisconsin dining.
Can I visit these distilleries?
Yes! Most have tasting rooms. We recommend checking theNorthwoods Distillery Trailmap before heading out, as some smaller operations require reservations.
Does “Grain-to-Glass” really matter?
Absolutely. It means the distillery handled every step. From milling the local grain to bottling the spirit. It ensures a level of quality and “terroir” that mass-produced brands can’t match.
Visit Ripsaw Saloon
Come see us in person. Good drinks, good food, good people.
| 1117 Railroad Ave, Prentice, WI 54556 | |
| (715) 428-2042 | |
| Mon & Thu–Sun 2 PM – Close · Closed Tue–Wed ·Packers games: open at noon |
Visit Us at Borrachos.bar
We take pride in our Wisconsin roots. Stop by to try a flight of local whiskeys or let our bartenders mix you a proper Brandy Old Fashioned. We celebrate the Northwoods spirit, one pour at a time.
Last updated: May 2026
See also: our Wisconsin bar statistics page
See also: our guide to Wisconsin distilleries worth the drive
See also: our summer 2026 seasonal cocktail guide
See also: the Wisconsin supper club ritual (start and end at Ripsaw)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Wisconsin distilleries should I know about?
Wisconsin’s craft distillery scene includes Great Lakes Distillery (Milwaukee), Dancing Goat Distillery (Cameron), and Milk Can Spirits (Oconomowoc), among others. Each produces whiskey, gin, vodka, and specialty spirits .
Can I visit Wisconsin distilleries for tastings?
Yes — most Wisconsin distilleries offer tasting rooms and tours. As of 2026, check individual distillery websites for hours and reservation requirements. Many are within a short drive of each other, making distillery-hopping a viable weekend trip.
What Wisconsin-made spirits are available at Ripsaw Saloon?
Ripsaw Saloon stocks select Wisconsin spirits behind the bar. As of May 2026, ask the bartender which local bottles are currently pouring — the lineup rotates based on availability and season.
How does Wisconsin’s distilling tradition compare to other states?
Wisconsin’s distilling culture is rooted in its German and Scandinavian immigrant heritage. The state is the top brandy-consuming market in the US, which drives local production.