Oregon’s First Tribal Distillery: A Historic Spirit Revival

You won't believe the groundbreaking news from Oregon! The Coquille Tribe is launching its first distillery. This is a must-know for spirit lovers!

A Historic Moment in Oregon’s Craft Spirits Scene

Oregon is set to make waves in the spirits industry with the opening of its first tribally-owned distillery, a venture led by the Coquille Indian Tribe and Heritage Distilling Company. After years of struggle against outdated laws and historical injustices, this project symbolizes not just economic growth but a deep-rooted cultural revival. Imagine walking into a beautifully designed tasting room, rich with ancestral stories, where every sip of whiskey or gin connects you to thousands of years of heritage.

The journey hasn’t been easy. The Coquille Tribe has faced numerous challenges since their forced relocation in the 19th century, but their resilience shines through as they reclaim their legacy through this distillery. I remember my first encounter with tribal spirits; it was more than just a drink—it was history in a glass.

The Collaboration that Sparked Change

In 2019, Heritage Distilling partnered with Native American tribes to form the Tribal Beverage Network (TBN), which has since revolutionized how spirits are produced and distributed on tribal lands. This collaboration not only facilitates the sale of Heritage brands but also empowers tribes financially by allowing them to partake in the lucrative spirits market—a sector previously closed off due to restrictive laws dating back to Andrew Jackson’s presidency.

“Spirits production and sales is the next major source of financial growth for tribes,” said Justin Stiefel, co-founder of Heritage Distilling. It’s thrilling to see how these changes are lifting communities and paving new paths for economic independence.

What Can We Expect from the New Distillery?

The upcoming distillery promises to be much more than just a place to produce spirits. It will include two full-service bars, a cigar lounge, retail space, and private event suites—an experience crafted for both locals and visitors alike. The Coquille Tribe aims to funnel revenue from distillation into critical areas like healthcare and education, ensuring that profits help uplift community members.

Margaret Simpson, CEO of CEDCO (which operates The Mill Casino-Hotel), emphasizes that this project is unparalleled for miles around. As someone who appreciates a well-made spirit, I can’t help but feel excited about visiting this space where tradition meets innovation.

Economic Impact on Tribal Communities

The impact of this distillery extends far beyond individual bottles; it’s about community empowerment. With every purchase made at The Mill Casino or any associated venues, patrons are directly supporting initiatives that benefit the Coquille Tribe’s social programs. The revenue stream generated from spirits will bolster educational services and healthcare resources—something many communities desperately need.

This model has proven effective elsewhere; after all, it was precisely such initiatives that helped other tribes gain financial stability post-termination era.

What Lies Ahead: Future Collaborations and Expansions

Oregon’s venture follows closely behind Heritage Distilling’s partnership with the Tonto Apache Tribe in Arizona—another exciting development that demonstrates how tribal collaboration can lead to broader opportunities within the craft spirits industry. With over 524 tribal casinos across the U.S., there’s potential for further expansions that could change how we view indigenous entrepreneurship.

As Justin Stiefel aptly put it: "With spirits production now available on tribal lands, we’re witnessing an exciting new chapter unfolding.” This isn’t just about making great drinks; it’s about celebrating heritage and fostering pride in one’s identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the distillery open?

The distillery is expected to open by the end of this year!

What types of spirits will be produced?

Expect a diverse selection including whiskey, vodka, gin, and possibly unique local flavors representative of Oregon’s terroir.

How can I support this initiative?

Visit The Mill Casino-Hotel once it opens or explore their offerings online! Every purchase contributes directly to tribal initiatives.

Photo by Isabel Retamales on Unsplash