While the Walla Walla Valley is known for our wine, we’re proud to boast a burgeoning distillery scene in our corner of the state. From the smoothest whiskey to vibrant, flavored vodkas and brandies brimming with local character, Walla Walla is distilling some mighty fine spirits. Whether you’re a connoisseur of craft spirits or simply curious, these distilleries offer a tantalizing taste of Walla Walla’s diverse and growing spirits scene. Join us as we explore three distilleries where passion and craftsmanship pour into every glass.
SHOT IN THE DARK CRAFT DISTILLERY: Located in the airport district, Shot in the Dark Craft Distillery is where dreams and drams converge. What began as a homage to a beloved family recipe has blossomed into a beacon for spirit enthusiasts. Here, award-winning whiskeys and moonshines tell a tale of tradition and innovation. Among their storied lineup, the apple pie whiskey stands as a testament to the owner’s German grandmother’s legacy, inviting each sipper into a story steeped in heritage and heart.
DW DISTILLING: Named the number-one craft brandy distiller by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice, DW Distilling is all about turning Walla Walla’s finest wines into even finer brandies. This spot in the historic Airport District is where local vino gets a second life as top-shelf brandy, thanks to a special double aging process. Dive into an informal yet enlightening tour, and savor a lineup where each brandy shines with its vineyard’s signature. Wrap up with a snazzy mini brandy cocktail, like their crowd-pleasing Sidecar—it’s sunshine in a glass! Surrounded by WWII relics, the tasting room’s vibe is as rich in history as the spirits are in flavor. A visit here is more than a tasting; it’s a toast to Walla Walla’s spirited heritage, crafted from the valley’s own wines. Read our full write-up on DW Distilling here.
CEDAR RAIN SPIRITS: Right on Main Street, Cedar Rain Spirits is a great go-to spot for families and friends who love diving into the world of craft cocktails, local beers, and tasty smoked BBQ. Since opening their doors in December 2019, this family-run distillery has been all about smooth-flavored vodkas and liqueurs with natural ingredients. Their story started with a Traditional Coffee Liqueur, a hit at family get-togethers, and now shared with everyone. In 2023, they opened a full-service restaurant in downtown Walla Walla where you can grab food, sip on their crafted spirits (and incredible cocktails), and soak in the good vibes.
We hope we’ve inspired you to try in a spirit (or two!) on your next visit to Walla Walla!
By: Stephanie Forrer
Stephanie Forrer Allenbach is an acclaimed writer, photographer, and content creator in the Pacific Northwest. An Alabama native, she moved to Seattle in 2013 before relocating to Walla Walla in 2020. Stephanie has a deep passion for the hospitality industry and loves sharing her favorite restaurants, hotels, wineries, coffee shops, and hidden gems. When she’s not traveling or exploring a new restaurant, you’ll find her wine tasting, hiking, or cooking with her husband Marcus and their pup, Shiso. Follow Stephanie’s travels at @StephForrer on Instagram or X.