America has a rich and tumultuous history with alcoholic beverages, particularly spirits. Despite the significant disruptions caused by Prohibition in the 1920s, which led to a dramatic downturn in the industry, the U.S. has emerged as a top producer of quality wines and spirits. With the repeal of Prohibition, American distillers and winemakers were driven to elevate their craft, employing quality and innovation to establish a strong domestic market. Today, while American whiskey is celebrated worldwide, there’s also a burgeoning interest in vodka, gin, rum, and brandy produced on American soil.

Top 5 American-Made Spirits

With the fluctuating landscape of international trade and potential import taxes, exploring American-made spirits has never been more appealing. Here’s a look at noteworthy labels across five categories:

1. Vodka

The first American vodka was produced in Connecticut in 1934, and by the 1970s, vodka surpassed whiskey in sales. Tito’s Handmade Vodka, launched in 1997, set the stage for many craft producers to create distinctive offerings.

Five bottles to try:

• Hanson of Sonoma – Made with grapes in California.
• Barr Hill Vodka – Distilled from raw honey in Vermont.
• The Community Spirit Vodka – Distilled five times in Indiana.
• St. George Spirits All Purpose Vodka – A versatile option from California.
• Wheatley Vodka – From Buffalo Trace Distillery.

2. Whiskey

American whiskey remains a leading category, accounting for 63% of all U.S. spirits exports in 2023. While brands like Maker’s Mark, Bulleit, and Jack Daniel’s are perennial favorites, many others rise to popularity.

Five bottles to try:

• Milam & Greene Whiskey – Distilled in Texas, aged across four states.
• Wyoming Whiskey National Parks Series – Collectible releases celebrating national parks.
• Brother’s Bond Bourbon – Supports regenerative farming.
• Bardstown Bourbon Collaborative Series – Unique blends in collaboration with various breweries.
• Widow Jane Whiskey – Small-batch production in Brooklyn.

3. Gin

Initially popularized by the British, gin’s botanical qualities have captivated American distillers, leading to an array of unique gins that reflect local flavors.

Five bottles to try:

• Four Corners Gin – Ingredients sourced from across the U.S.
• Gray Whale Gin – California-produced using ingredients like Big Sur juniper.
• Loch & Union Barley Gin – A coriander-forward option from Napa.
• Leopold Bros Small Batch Gin – Crafted with individually distilled botanicals in Denver.
• Corsair American Gin – Exclusive vapor-distilled small batches from Nashville.

4. Rum

Historically favored in the 1600s and a staple during Prohibition, rum has evolved and remains a popular spirit, with American distilleries gaining recognition for their quality.

Five bottles to try:

• Privateer Navy Yard Rum – A molasses-based rum from Massachusetts.
• Bully Boy Boston Rum – Blends of blackstrap and sweet molasses.
• Greenbar Distillery Silver Rum – Ideal for cocktails from LA.
• Kō Hana Rum – Known for its portfolio of agricole rum from Oahu.
• Humboldt Spiced Rum – Made with organic spices from California.

5. Brandy

American brandy has roots dating back to early colonial settlements, with distillation practices evolving since then.

Five bottles to try:

• Laird & Company – The oldest brandy label in America, dating back to 1780.
• Laird’s Old Apple Brandy – Features aging in charred oak barrels.
• E&J Brandy – A mainstream option established in 1975.
• Argonaut Fat Thumb – Flavors of apple, pear, caramel, and oak.
• Germain-Robin XO Brandy – Noted for its cherry characteristics from California.
• Korbel VSOP – A variety typical of Sonoma County’s sparkling wine reputation.

Exploring these American-made spirits can provide a delightful taste of the country’s craftsmanship and heritage.