Take a Sip at Lancaster County's Distilleries
You might be surprised to learn there is an impressive and growing lineup of distillers of fine spirits nestled in the Lancaster landscape. Thanks to our abundant agriculture, distilleries here have access to local crops of corn, barley, and other grains and fruit. And with craft-distilled liquors growing in popularity, it's no wonder distilling operations thrive here in Lancaster County.
With beverages to satisfy every palate, here are five distilleries that are worth a shot — all within a short drive from After Eight Bed and Breakfast.
Lancaster Distilleries: In the heart of downtown, Lancaster Distilleries emerged on the craft spirits scene in 2018. You'll find their lineup of spirits — rum, gin, vodka, bourbon and brandy — at Zoetropolis, a former theater transformed into an art house, music venue, restaurant and craft distillery all rolled into one eclectic concept. You can also pick up a bottle of Lancaster Distilleries' spirits at Lancaster Central Market or a community event featuring their Booze Van.
Spirits Distilling Company: Long known for its wines, Mount Hope Estate in Manheim also operates Spirits Distilling Company. The distillery's hand-crafted spirits pay homage to the estate's rich history and tradition. With more than two dozen offerings, Spirits Distilling Company continuously strives to produce new flavors and frequently features limited-release batches.
Thistle Finch Distillery: Located in a historic tobacco warehouse in Lancaster City, Thistle Finch Distillery is a destination that allows you to step back in time while you sip a rye whiskey cocktail or sample small-batch gin and vodka. Stop in on the weekend when they offer distillery tours. Their Burly Bar Restaurant has a nice selection of burgers, pizza, salads and snacks.
Stoll and Wolfe Distillery: While Stoll and Wolfe Distillery in Lititz offers beer, wine and cocktails, it's the award-winning rye and bourbon that you need to taste here. Stoll and Wolfe is proudly reviving the art of whiskey making in Pennsylvania, and will happily teach visitors about their process and history. The tasting room has an urban feel, with dark walls and exposed brick. A small selection of appetizers is available to accompany the drinks.
Old Republic Distillery Tasting Room and Tavern: The ORD Tasting Room and Tavern in Ephrata features spirits made by its parent distillery in neighboring York County. The tavern is located in a beautifully renovated barn dating back to 1777, and still showcases the original stone wall and wood beams, giving the space a speakeasy feel. The tasting room serves all the ORD small-batch spirits, including vodka, rum, whiskey and moonshine. While you sip, enjoy delicious food from their small bites menu.
