Fermentin’ in a warehouse space in the arts district downtown, Greenbar Collective (3910 W Sunset Blvd., Silverlake, 323.669.1675, website) is the first Los Angeles-based distillery since Prohibition.
Making the world’s largest selection of organic, artisan spirits, Greenbar’s cranking out tequila distilled using old steaming techniques, and rum that’s oxygenated with the same process as California wine. The real beauty is a white whiskey called Slow Hand, which ferments a traditional mash (oat, malt, spelt) with ale and champagne yeasts, and then ages it in wooden barrels for just 10 minutes so that they can legally call it whiskey, instead of moonshine.
Greenbar’s alcohol is available now at some of LA’s bars (Bar 1200 at the Sunset Marquis, River Rock, etc) or bring it home. They are also opening up the distillery once a month for cocktail classes in their small tasting room for only $20.
