History

The Heart Distillery opened in August 2018 under the same umbrella as High Hops Brewery and The Windsor Gardener. It is a family-owned business run by Pat and Amanda Weakland, who have rooted themselves in Windsor for more than 30 years. The family built from a greenhouse to a destination where people can shop or enjoy a drink. The business model is driven by determination, inspiration and a whole heart, and they offer award-winning gin, whiskey, vodka, rum and absinthe. Pat and Amanda have two children, Zach and Rachel, who are deeply involved in the business; Zach is the head distiller and Rachel handles bookkeeping and marketing. The Heart Distillery is part of a family that has evolved since the greenhouse adventure in 1991 and Windsor Gardener in 2001, and they combine production, retail and experience in one area. The Heart Distillery is highlighted as part of a local craft spirits community with a focus on quality and heart in the work.

Production

The Heart Distillery produces award-winning gin, whiskey, vodka, rum and absinthe, and the business runs in small batches under the leadership of Zach Weakland, who is a central figure in production. The water used comes from the Rocky Mountains, including the Cache La Poudre River, and this water is used in several of their products. The Bourbon line includes, among others, Special Release Straight Bourbon – aged 5 years in new American oak barrels, Small Batch Bourbon – a high-proof (123 proof / 61.5% alc/vol) in small batches, and Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey – handcrafted in small portions at 90 proof. Oak & Blossom Barrel Aged Gin shows a longer aging of 24 months in charred virgin oak casks, giving a golden color and a complex botanical profile that balances refreshing herbs with the depth of oak. The vodka is described as 80 proof and distilled six times, with Rocky Mountain water, and there are also products such as Trinity Absinthe and other spirits such as Don John Rum and Trinity Absinthe, which demonstrate a broad portfolio of craft spirits in small batches. The Heart Distillery uses small-batch and a familial approach to further develop and flavor – something also seen in other products such as Walt Myers Whiskey and other special releases.

Whiskey Series

• Special Release Straight Bourbon – Aged 5 Years – 90 Proof (45% Alc/Vol) – 750ml. Aromas of warm wood, light smoke and rich vanilla meet the first impression, followed by clove and caramel. The palate is described as almost chewable and longer than a sip, and it is recommended to enjoy neat, in a Glencairn glass, or as the centerpiece of a bourbon cocktail.
• Small Batch Bourbon – 123 Proof (61.5% Alc/Vol) – 750ml. A rare small-batch bourbon experience with a dark body and complexity, designed to be enjoyed at full batch profile or with water to adjust the strength.
• Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey – 90 Proof (45% Alc/Vol) – 750ml. Handcrafted in small batches with Rocky Mountain water, presenting an earthy nose with hints of grain, caramel and dark chocolate, and a mid-finish with warmth and spices such as cardamom and vanilla.
• Walt Myers Whiskey – 93 Proof (46.5% Alc/Vol) – 750ml. A single malt whiskey aged in Kentucky bourbon barrels for 5 years. Smooth and caramelized character and described as a staff favorite.

Visits / Experiences

Tasting Room Hours and Location: 6461 Hwy 392 Windsor, CO 80550. The hours vary, and there are specific opening hours listed for Tuesday through Sunday (open 10:00–17:00 or 17:30 depending on the day), Mondays closed. In addition to the option to get drinks in the tasting room, they offer menus with cocktails such as Gin & Tonic, Bee’s Knees, Orange Dreamsicle, Colorado Spiked Seltzer and more, as well as flights (Cocktail Sampler Flight and Spirit Flight). There is also the option to purchase products in the tasting room and via their Spirits Finder, which shows where the products can be purchased nearby. Additionally, there are special events and monthly updates via the mailing list.

Philosophy

The Heart Distillery describes itself as a family-driven business with a focus on determination, inspiration and a very big heart. The team around the business consists of Pat and Amanda Weakland, who are the founders and driving forces, as well as Zach, the production manager and head distiller, and Rachel, who handles bookkeeping and marketing. This culture emphasizes community, quality and local ties, and they share the vision of remaining relevant in a region rich with breweries by adding a distillery and a broad portfolio of spirits for their guests and customers.