Potent Potables

No we are not talking Celebrity Jeopardy here, we are referring to the first legal spirits distillery in Minnesota since prohibition. It was announced this week that 11 Wells Spirits is setting up shop in Saint Paul. Located at the Old Hamm's brewery complex, they hope to begin distilling spirits this coming January. It seems a very fitting location for a distillery. Named after the 11 wells on site, 11 Wells Spirits will be utilizing the water from its namesake well number 11.

Saint Paul is a very logical location for a craft distillery. With the current popularity of classic and craft cocktails, high end and craft spirits are gaining popularity, and Minnesota has all the right ingredients needed for making spirits. Minnesota has pure water, plentiful grains, and is home to two cooperages to supply the barrels needed to age the spirits.

At this time, the distillery plans to produce Gin, Rum, Bourbon, Rye, Malt Whiskey, and a corn based liquor called Minnesota 13. Minnesota 13 is named after a strain of corn developed by the University of Minnesota to thrive in the short Minnesota growing season. This unique corn liquor gained acclaim during prohibition as a premium quality moonshine.

We look forward to tasting some of the distillate in the coming year. We will keep our fellow hedonists updated as we hear of news regarding 11 Wells Spirits.

Photo Courtesy 11 Wells Spirits