This week we are headed back to The Berkshires to visit Berkshire Mountain Distillery in Sheffield, Massachusetts; the first legal distillery in The Berkshires since prohibition. They first opened their doors in 2007. At the time they were located in a small barn before they expanded in 2014 to the current location that allows them to do tastings and tours so you can really get a feeling for the farm-to-glass approach that sets them apart from other craft distilleries. They actively grow the botanicals that they use in their spirits on the property and source locally whenever possible creating an authentic taste of The Berkshires with every sip.

At the distillery, they handcraft a wide variety of small-batch artisanal spirits including gin, rum, vodka, whiskey, and bourbon. So there's something for everyone, no matter your drink of choice and they're good! The New York Times named their bestselling Greylock Gin as the number one craft gin in the country. This isn't the only accolade they've collected either, other award-winning spirits include their Ice Glen Vodka and Berkshire Bourbon.

In addition to their core family or products, there are also some more specialty options. They craft Ethereal Gin, the recipe for this one is different with each batch, and Cask Finished Bourbon among others. They even make their own bitters! One of my favorite specialty spirits that they offer is a Maple Bourbon that isn't syrupy and disgusting like the ones from the big brands you see at your local liquor store. I was afraid to try it at first but was pleasantly surprised. This one is only available at the distillery and the stock is limited since it depends on how much maple syrup they are able to make. You can learn more about their products here.

The distillery is open year-round and offers tastings and tours. Tastings are complimentary and include up to 5 samples. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday you can enjoy their spirits in a cocktail for $8. Distillery tours are $10 and last approximately 45 minutes to an hour taking you through their process from grain to glass. They only happen on Fridays and Saturdays on the hour between noon and 4 p.m. More information on that can be found on their website here. Their products are also available in restaurants, bars, and stores across the country. There's a list of distributors in the states they're available here.

Berkshire Mountain Distillers, Inc. | 356 S. Main Street, Sheffield, Massachusetts | www.berkshiremountaindistillers.com