Just 25 miles from the Canadian border in the tiny town of Hallock, Far North Spirits is the northernmost distillery in the contiguous United States. While you might think the distillery’s remote location holds it back, it’s actually what inspires owners Michael Swanson and Cheri Reese, who rely on northern Minnesota’s agricultural abundance to craft their premium, heritage spirits. In fact, the husband-and-wife team are among only a handful of estate distillers nationwide who also grow their own grains. Using sustainable methods, they produce a handful of beautifully bottled gins, rums, vodkas, and whiskeys, all of which possess a uniquely Minnesota character. Try them at Far North’s stylish Cocktail Room, where you can order the spirits neat or mixed into well-crafted drinks. If you’re interested in learning more about the distillery, visit on a weekend for events like free tastings, cocktail classes, and more.
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Far North Spirits Distillery and Cocktail Room
How can you not be tempted to check out the farthest north distillery in the contiguous 48 states, especially when your trip along the King of Trails Scenic Byway takes you right by it? Set on a picturesque northern Minnesota backdrop, Far North is run my a husband and wife pair who grew up in Hallock. While they originally settled in Minneapolis, their love of whiskey and the desire to do something with the grains that the northern land is known for, they returned in 2013 and launched the distillery. Today’s visitors can select from locally-made gin, whiskey, rum, and vodka as well as craft cocktails designed to feature them. Saturday’s offer a rotation of events from free tasting to cocktail classes, so plan on visiting then if you can.
