There are so many reasons to enjoy an adult beverage on a hot summer day in Idaho! We can't think of a better way to shop locally than to drink locally - two birds, one stone, right? However, shopping locally can be confusing. Brands can be misleading and advertisers know shopping locally is in right now. So, let us help guide you to a more informed local experience! We've compiled a list of Idaho's best breweries and distilleries just for you! Why all of Idaho and not just Boise? Because some of the best producers are not in the Treasure Valley! Why breweries and distilleries? Because we aim to please and everyone has their drink of choice!
1. 44 North
Know the joke about white girls and pumpkin spice everything? For Idaho, it's huckleberry everything! 44 North is killing their vodka line, and the huckleberry is a true Idaho classic. Check out the Doc Holliday for a night out on the town.
2. Lost Grove
The nicest bartenders in town plus an ever-growing selection of amazing beers makes Lost Grove a brewery not to be missed! Right next to Ann Morrison and crowlers to go means that no river float is complete without a stop in here. Say hi to the owner, Jake, while you're at it! (P.S. They have a great wine, cider, and mixed drink selection for anyone who isn't beer-friendly!)
3. 8 Feathers
There are so many reasons Idaho makes the perfect place to distill liquors. If you have never tried a boulevardier this is the perfect whiskey to find out it's your favorite drink! Make sure you ask for a maraschino cherry garnish. Check out 8 Feathers website for more info.
4. Clairvoyant Brewing
Don't feel like floating the river but still want to get some quality water time in the sunshine? Hit up Whitewater Park and then take a short stroll to Clairvoyant Brewing. The Push and Pour Koffee Kolsch is to die for.
5. Warfield Distillery & Brewery
If you haven't been to Ketchum yet, you are missing out on an incredible little slice of paradise. Match that with incredible food, a distillery and a brewery all in one, and breathtaking views to get the perfect Idaho experience. There are no limits for the outdoor fanatics here! Stay tuned for the apple brandy they have on the way.
6. Woodland Empire
Now, we would never encourage drinking and skiing, but a snow-cold beer on top of Bogus is a delicacy every Idahoan should experience. Woodland Brewing is the perfect pairing for such an event.
7. Bardenay
We try not to put Bardenay on every listicle we put out, but it really is one of the best places in Boise! With a line of rum, vodka, and most famously, gin, Bardenay is sure to satisfy your taste buds! Their Bond Martini will have you fly in that bowtie in no time.
8. Mad Swede Brewing
Mad Swede is putting out some of the most unique beers we've seen in Boise. Unique beers in unique Idaho means you're sure to make a memory— or forget one. The Longship IPA tastes like the Northwest poured into a stein!
9. Powderhaus Brewing
Hit the pow-pow and then hit one of these Evan's Gates from Powderhaus Brewing. If you aren't a fan of dark beers the Prusnik Pilsner is also a personal favorite.
10. Koenig Vineyards
CURVEBALL!!! Not many people know that Idaho actually has a few amazing vineyards! Our favorite is Koenig, but check out all of these for a full picture of Idaho's wine culture.
Everyone has their brewery or distillery of choice, which one is yours? Didn't make the list? Trying to get a name out there? Mention it in the comments!
