Historie

Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery & Distillery was formed on June 19, 2008, out of a pure passion for wine and winemaking. The founders wanted to produce the finest wines and create a unique experience for guests. The cornerstone was laid by leveraging a historic tract of land that is deeply connected to the region's past. In fall 2010 construction began on our 11,000-square-meter winemaking facility and tasting room, with an opening date set for May 2012. The old 1864 farmhouse was preserved and converted into the winemaker's on-site residence and later to offices and bridal areas. Since then, the site has evolved into a destination with a vineyard, a distillery, and unique outdoor event spaces. In 2015, Chankaska proudly participated in an interactive sculpture tour called ART OF LIFE. Philanthropy has also been a central part of the business from the start, focusing on local community benefit and art, integrated with the estate.

Production/Manufacturing

Chankaska's spirits are produced on-site under the name Ranch Road Spirits. In addition to gin, vodka, rum, bourbon and brandy are also distilled, making the distillery an integral part of Ranch Road activities. Ranch Road Barrel Gin has earned 93 points from Wine Enthusiast Magazine and is highlighted for its botanicals such as juniper, elderflower and coriander, which age in barrels and take on a golden hue. The flavor is described as bright and lively with notes of lemon zest and ginger, and a touch of brown butter adds richness. In addition, North Forest Kreme is sold, a range of creamy liqueurs that are small-batch and can be enjoyed neat, chilled, in coffee, or over ice. North Forest Kreme offers flavor variants such as walnut, huckleberry vanilla and maple bourbon pecan.

Products/Whiskey Series

Ranch Road Spirits includes whiskeys, gin, vodka, rum, bourbon and brandy, with a clear emphasis on bourbon-related products in the form of Straight Bourbon Whiskey, which has received a Platinum prize in a competition. There is also a clear Bourbon category in their product lineup.

Visits/Experiences

Visitors can enjoy the Tasting Room and Spirits Room with the following hours: Tasting Room Monday–Saturday 12:00–21:00, Sunday 12:00–19:00; Spirits Room Thursday 16:00–21:00, Friday and Saturday 12:00–21:00, Sunday 12:00–19:00. Outside food or beverages are not allowed. There are various reservation options for tastings in the Spirits Bar and for table reservations, as well as outdoor picnic table reservations and special events. In addition to the wine list in the tasting room, they also offer an unWINED Music Series with regular live performances in the cellar or in the Spirit Lounge, as well as various events and pickup parties for Wine Circle members. Guests can join the Ranch Road Circle (spirit membership) with discounts on bottles, glassware and related products, as well as a newsletter and exclusive events.

Philosophy

Chankaska emphasizes giving back to the local community through philanthropy and art, and has integrated art and culture as part of the guest experience through ART OF LIFE. Economic and social engagement are central parts of the company's identity and operations.