History

Backwards Distilling Company presents itself as an unusual world and a craft distillery. On their website, they emphasize small-batch production and a clear commitment to craftsmanship and community. The distillery has facilities in Mills and a guest program in Casper, Wyoming, where they offer a tasting room and opportunities for guided tours and classes.

Production and Craft

They describe themselves as a craft distillery and highlight small-batch distillation, where production is carefully controlled and each batch is handled with a focus on quality. They typically mention batching of around 300-400 bottles per batch and that they are hands-on in all parts of the process. Their equipment includes two specially built stills: a large still set called Jumbo (200 L Kothe pot-column hybrid still) and their botanical still (Flea), a 200-gallon Vendome still. They place emphasis on quality ingredients and work directly with suppliers to ensure the quality of their raw materials, often locally in Wyoming when possible (otherwise Montana and Louisiana). They also emphasize education and ongoing improvement through collaboration with experts and sharing knowledge. Their culture underscores a strong sense of community, with involvement in local, urban, and distilling communities as part of the business model.

Products / Whisky Series

On the page, two whisky-related products are mentioned under their spirits page: 11 Graves Whiskey and American Whiskey. These products are described as whiskeys they produce/market. In addition, many of their other products and cocktails are based on different spirits such as Contortionist Gin, Strongman Gin, Sword Swallower Rum, Original Moonshine, and Ringleader Vodka, as well as a range of cocktails and recipes that use these products.

Visits and Experiences

Backwards Distilling offers tours and classes through the section Behind the Curtain / Tours / Take the Stage. The distillery and tasting room are open to guests aged 21 and over. The tasting room is located in Casper (214 S. Wolcott St., Casper) and the distillery itself in Mills (158 Progress Circle, Mills). The distillery is open only for pre-booked tours. Phone number and e-mail are listed as contact points for booking. The distillery posts fixed hours for the tasting room (Wednesday through Sunday) and detailed clarifications in their contact points.

Philosophy

The philosophy is clear through the pillars Craft, Community, and Quality. The Craft pillar describes small-batch-like production and traditional techniques without compromising on flavor and quality. They speak of a sustained need to learn and exchange knowledge with experts and other craftspeople in the industry. The Quality pillar emphasizes choosing raw materials, high-quality equipment, and a focus on education and process refinement. The Community pillar stresses the belief that the company is strongest in interaction with employees, guests, and the wider local community as well as the distilling community.