All Points West Distillery

All Points West Distillery: Reviving History in Newark’s Ironbound

Nestled in Newark’s historic Ironbound neighborhood, All Points West Distillery offers a compelling journey back in time, marrying Old World distilling traditions with a distinctly American twist. Founded by former architect Gil Spaier, All Points West officially opened its doors for production in September 2017, with a grand public opening in December 2017. Their name itself is a nod to the Jersey Central Railroad, which connected Ellis Island to “All Points West,” with Newark being a vibrant first stop for countless immigrants, many of whom brought their brewing and distilling expertise.

Distinguishing Features for the Discerning Enthusiast:

• Historic Revival Focus: All Points West is dedicated to recreating and innovating spirits using techniques from the Netherlands, Ireland, Scotland, and Britain, inspired by the region’s rich, often forgotten, distilling past. They even revive a “lost” whiskey style, deemed “too American” by a 1908 Royal Commission, which was outlawed in the UK in 1909.
• Grain-to-Bottle Production: Every step of the process, from milling and mashing to fermenting, distilling, aging, and bottling, takes place on-site. This commitment to vertical integration ensures meticulous control over quality and flavor.
• Unique Water Source: They tap into water from Newark’s protected watersheds in the Appalachian Highlands, a source historically prized by the numerous breweries that once thrived in the Ironbound.
• Award-Winning Whiskies: Their Malt and Grain Pot Still Whiskey has garnered significant acclaim, including “Whiskey of the Year” and a Gold Medal at the 2019 USA Spirits Rating. It’s praised for its superb flavor profile with notes of cedar and light smoky nuances. Their Mid-Atlantic Pot Still Rye also receives high marks for its complexity and ability to stand alongside much older ryes.
• Diverse Spirit Portfolio: Beyond their celebrated whiskies, All Points West produces a range of high-quality spirits including:
  • Kill Van Kull Single Pot Still Rum: A historic NY/NJ harbor-style rum, meticulously recreated using a richer molasses inspired by pre-industrial techniques.
  • Cathouse Gin: A “softer, richer, and broader in flavor” gin compared to the London Dry style, made with 13 macerated and distilled botanicals.
  • Bone Black Vodka: A flavorful vodka inspired by Dutch Wheat Vodka traditions, filtered through a proprietary blend of bone and plant charcoals for a clean yet aromatic finish. They also offer a Bone Black Black Pepper Vodka.
• Industrial-Chic Taproom: The distillery’s trendy interior boasts an industrial décor, creating a vibrant atmosphere alive with the scents of botanicals and aging spirits. It’s an ideal spot for tours, tastings, and enjoying expertly crafted cocktails.
• Commitment to Experience: They offer tours and tastings, providing a detailed look into their process and the history that informs their spirits.

Regular Events:

All Points West Distillery is a hub for community engagement and regularly hosts a variety of events for enthusiasts to enjoy:

• Distillery Tours and Tastings: These are a recurring weekly event, typically held on Saturdays, offering a 20-minute guided tour, spirit samples, and a complimentary house cocktail.
• Live Music & Jam Sessions: The distillery frequently hosts live performances, including “Brick City Jam Sessions,” creating a lively evening atmosphere.
• Comedy Nights: Look out for “Brick City Comedy Review” events, bringing local and regional comedic talent to the stage.
• Special Release Parties: They often celebrate new spirit releases with dedicated events.
• Workshops & Themed Nights: Past events have included unique offerings like “Valentine’s Terrarium Workshop w/ Cocktails,” “Holiday Plant & Sip,” and “Mindful Sip” happy hours, blending craft spirits with creative activities.

Website:

To explore their full range of spirits, check their event calendar, and plan your visit, head to: https://www.allpointswestdistillery.com/