On May 24 th , 2019, exactly 215 years to the hour after Lewis & Clark and the Corps of Discovery set out on their bold expedition of exploration, the Missouri Craft Distillers Guild launched the Missouri Spirits Expedition.
The Missouri Spirits Expedition is an invitation to explore the state and meet the fascinating, passionate entrepreneurs who are making Missouri the heart of American craft spirits and a premier destination for agritourism.
“The idea was borne out of a desire to encourage people to not only discover and learn about craft spirits,” says Lynn DeLean-Weber, president of the Missouri Craft Distillers Guild, “but to also explore the communities where these distilleries are located. This is a perfect reason to get out on the highways, byways, and country backroads to see all that Missouri has to offer. We are part of towns and communities, and we are partners in agriculture and forestry, tourism, and hospitality.” The Missouri Spirits Expedition brochure is released each year. It doesn’t expire. It doesn’t have to be done in any order. It is free to participate.
The guild is seeing an uptick in out-of-state participants. With 37 ‘outfitters’ to visit, the
expedition’s proposition is compelling: “Follow along in the spirit of Lewis & Clark as you adventure across the great state of Missouri and visit its many distilleries. Each with its own unique story to tell and flavors to taste. Along your journey you’ll make lifelong memories as you discover intoxicating elixirs, potent potables, surprising history, and new friends. On this statewide ‘trail’, you can visit these incredible small businesses and we will ‘Show You’ why Missouri is home to some of the best handcrafted spirits available. From the White Oak Barrels to access to historical and diverse grain, Missouri is home to some of the most award-winning spirits in the nation, and we can assure you that someone in Missouri is making your favorite spirit, you just haven’t found it yet.”
The Missouri Craft Distillers Guild was formed in 2018 by five founding members: Van Hawxby, DogMaster Distillery in Columbia; Gary Hinegardner, Wood Hat Spirits in New Florence; Steve Neukomm, Square One Brewery & Distillery in St. Louis; Rob Vossmeyer, Voss Beverage Consulting in St. Louis; and David Weglarz, StilL 630 in St. Louis. Its mission is to promote, educate, and advocate for the craft distilling industry in Missouri for the enjoyment and benefit of all.
Click here to view the map of MCDG members.
For more information, go to https://www.missouricraftdistillersguild.com/missouri-spirits-expedition
