History

Chuckanut Bay Distillery is located in Bellingham, Washington, in a historic building where Penny Farthing Bar & Restaurant is a central part of the venue. Penny Farthing was named Bellingham's best bar and lounge, best restaurant, and best date-night spot. The distillery offers tours and tastings and is open for private events. Since 2025 they have been named Washington State Distillery of the Year by the New York International Spirits Competition. Their approach is characterized by a Pacific Northwest identity, history, and a focus on local craftsmanship.

Production / Manufacturing

Chuckanut Bay Distillery produces by being grain-to-glass, with grain grown locally within about 25 miles of the distillery. They mill, ferment and distill themselves and then age in American oak barrels to achieve a characteristic PNW tone. The process includes the use of Douglas Fir wood washbacks, open washbacks, and traditional slow distillation. For some products a third distillation is performed, and the distillate is then stored in new two-year-old oak barrels and finished in Apple Brandy casks for extra sweetness. The products include Bourbon and Rye, including 100% Rye. All raw materials come from local farms with grain grown within a few miles, and the focus is on preserving the region's character and craftsmanship.

Products / Whisky Series

• Bourbon: A true Pacific Northwest representation of the spirit, aged in American white oak barrels. Flavor notes described as a fresh forest aroma and freshness; medals from the USA Spirits Competition.
• Chuckanut Rye Whisky: A rye whiskey made from locally grown grain and aged in new barrels, with notes of freshly cut wood and a spicy rye character.
• Chuckanut 100% Rye Whisky: 100% rye, from locally grown grain, highlighting a spicy, wood-aged finish.
• Muzzleflash Whisky: Grain-to-glass whiskey made from corn, rye and wheat, triple-distilled and aged in new barrels.
• Apple Brandy Cask-Finished Muzzleflash Whisky: A Muzzleflash whiskey aged for two years and finished in Apple Brandy casks for 12 months for a fruity twist.

Visits / Experiences

• Tasting & Tours: The distillery's tours last about 1 hour, two mini cocktails are included, you get a souvenir glass, and the tour takes place at 1311 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham. Age requirement 21+. Private distillery tours are available for groups 4-20. In addition you can experience Penny Farthing Bar & Restaurant and Rooftop Bar. The distillery and Penny Farthing also arrange private events such as weddings and corporate parties.

Philosophy

Historic charm meets modern elegance. Chuckanut Bay Distillery produces from locally grown grain and practices a slow, craft-oriented approach. They emphasize direct engagement with the process—the best flavor is achieved by sensing, smelling, and tasting. They avoid purchasing finished goods and distill themselves—focusing on preserving the region's character and environment.