Washington State has quietly emerged as one of America's most exciting craft whiskey regions, and few producers have done more to put it on the map than the distillery nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains outside Seattle. Founded in 2010, this Pacific Northwest operation built its reputation on a simple but disciplined philosophy: source exceptional locally grown grain, age patiently in a climate that delivers dramatic seasonal temperature swings, and let the whiskey speak for itself. That approach to maturation is worth understanding — the region's warm summers and cold winters accelerate the interaction between spirit and oak, producing whiskeys that punch well above their age statements. Beyond their flagship straight bourbon, the distillery has steadily expanded into finished expressions, rye whiskeys, and limited releases that showcase just how versatile their house style can be, making it one of the more compelling American craft ranges to explore from bottle to bottle.
Here's a craft distillery out of Washington state that's putting out some seriously smooth bourbon. Woodinville does everything in-house, from distilling to aging, and they take their time doing it right. What makes this bourbon so beginner-friendly is the clean, approachable flavor profile - you get classic notes of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of cinnamon, but everything's dialed in perfectly so nothing overpowers your palate. They age their whiskey in toasted and charred oak barrels, which adds complexity without harshness. The finish is gentle and pleasant, making it easy to go back for another sip. It's got that craft distillery attention to detail without any of the weird experimental flavors that can sometimes throw beginners off. The bottle looks sharp too, and at around 90 proof, it's strong enough to feel like real whiskey but smooth enough that you won't regret taking that second glass.
From Washington state, this straight bourbon gets extra time in ruby port barrels from Portugal's Douro Valley, adding a rich, fruity layer to their already solid five-year-old spirit. You pick up jammy berries, candied cherries, dried plums, chocolate-covered fruit, and a touch of spice that makes it thick and cozy, perfect for slow sippin' when the wind's howlin' outside. Buy it now!
Woodinville Applewood Bourbon is a distinctive bourbon that stands out with its applewood-infused aging process. This imparts a subtle fruitiness and a smoky undertone, creating a unique and memorable flavor profile. Ideal for adventurous bourbon drinkers, it offers a refreshing twist on traditional bourbon, perfect for enjoying neat or in creative cocktails. Buy it now!
55% corn, 35% rye, and 10% malted barley are proudly used to create this genuine grain-to-glass bourbon. Before being put into private barrel rooms to age for eight years, the grains were carefully mashed and distilled in the beautiful Woodinville distillery. Buy it now!
Woodinville Straight Bourbon Aged 9 Years (100 proof, $129.99 MSRP) has been aging in Woodinville’s barrelhouses in Quincy, WA since 2016, in heavily toasted, lightly charred barrels made from 24-month open-air seasoned staves by Independent Stave Company. It has a mashbill of 55% corn, 35% rye, and 10% malted barley mashbill, which differs from Woodinville’s Flagship mashbill. Tasting Notes- Nose: Butter cookie and fresh citrus. Palate: Dried mango, milk chocolate, spice drop candies and caramel nougat. Finish: Toffee with a hint of nutmeg spice.
Woodinville Whiskey Co. shone at the 2025 SFWSC, with their Flagship 100% Rye earning a Double Gold and an impressive 96 points. Crafted from rye grown on the Omlin Family Farm in Quincy, Washington, this grain-to-glass whiskey is distilled in Woodinville and aged back in Quincy’s barrelhouses, embracing two distinct Washington terroirs for a unique flavor profile. At 90 proof and aged over five years, it delivers aromas of cinnamon, clove, and fruit leather, with a palate of caramel, wood spice, and honey, finishing long and memorable. Co-Founder Orlin Sorensen notes the distillery’s hands-on approach, saying, “It’s not the most efficient way to make whiskey, but it’s worth it for something extraordinary.” Available nationally for $40, this rye is a go-to for men who want a bold, spicy pour with a story of craftsmanship. Woodinville’s tease of an upcoming older 100% Rye release only adds to the excitement for whiskey fans looking to elevate their collection. Buy it now!
This fall, Woodinville Whiskey Company is making waves with the release of two exceptional whiskeys as part of its annual 2024 Harvest Release: the Woodinville Bourbon Sauternes Finish and the Woodinville Founder’s Find. These new additions highlight Woodinville’s continued commitment to innovation and craftsmanship, bringing unique flavors and exciting stories to whiskey enthusiasts. Read more.