History
Mine Hill Distillery sits along the Shepaug River in Roxbury, Connecticut. The area’s industrial history includes Roxbury Station and the surrounding railroad transport, which played a role in the town’s development. The waterfall powering the mills plays a central role in the area’s history and in the distillery’s aging environment. The distillery is housed in an 1860s-era cigar factory, and Station from 1872 now serves as the primary event space called Station. They received recognition as a historic preservation project in 2017. The motto "Still Made in Connecticut" reflects a focus on tradition and local craftsmanship.
Production/Manufacturing
The distillery produces on-site with mashing, fermentation, distilling, and bottling. All grains and water come from local sources in Connecticut, including water from their own well. They use local ingredients and sustainable methods; spent grain is donated to heritage livestock in the area, creating a closed-loop cycle. The whiskies age at the waterfall’s microclimate, contributing to the development of flavor and character. They collaborate with two farms that have been family-owned since before the American Revolution. The distillery emphasizes being "Still Made in Connecticut."
Products/Whiskey Series
• Mine Hill Bourbon: 41% ABV (82 proof). Grain Bill: 60% corn, 33% rye, 7% malt extract. High-rye bourbon with sweetness at the start, spices that add complexity, and a smooth finish; the aging environment occurs at the waterfall’s microclimate. • Mine Hill Rye: 45% ABV (90 proof). Grain Bill: 93% rye, 7% malt. A smooth, spicy finish with pepper and a pleasant aftertaste. • Amaro: 20% ABV (40 proof). Made with 16 botanicals and local wine; sweetened with maple syrup and aged 5–6 months. Suitable in cocktails such as Negroni or Manhattan, or as an aperitif. • Mine Hill Gin: 41% ABV (82 proof). Classic dry gin with eight botanicals and a flavor of the surrounding nature; the barnhill description is mentioned as part of the range. • Mine Hill Vodka: 41% ABV (82 proof). Made from 100% Connecticut-grown hard wheat; clean, crisp, and creamy mouthfeel. Some descriptions also mention the description "CT High-Rye Bourbon" and specific notes related to gin and amaro.
Visits/Experiences
The Distillery Tasting Room is open weekdays 12–5 PM and weekends 12–5 PM, with extended hours during holidays. Walk-ins are usually welcome, but they recommend calling 860-210-1872 to secure a spot, as distilling and bottling can be unpredictable at certain times. Station 1872 is the main event area, and the Station’s iconic exterior and interior details provide an authentic experience with a full bar, stage equipment, access to two large restrooms, and ADA compliance. Guided tours of the distillery are also described as an option to see the process and enjoy exclusive tastings.
Philosophy
Mine Hill places emphasis on craftsmanship, tradition, and quality through locally sourced materials and sustainability. All grains and wine come from local farms, and the water comes from their own well. Spent grain is donated to local livestock, creating a sustainable cycle. They strive to produce spirits that reflect the place and history of Roxbury, and the motto "Still Made in Connecticut" underscores this commitment. Their approach blends traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to deliver products with a strong connection to the local area and its history.
Last updated: 08-12-25 09:07