(category)Whiskey
Overview: With its new location in the Del Rio Marketplace, Central Coast Distillery is poised to become a hub for experience-driven visitors seeking high-quality spirits and delicious food options. The relocation marks a significant milestone in the distillery’s growth, following years of serving customers from its original “funky little spot” off Traffic Way.
The Full Story
Central Coast Distillery was founded by husband-and-wife duo Eric and Anna Olson in 2017. Initially operating out of a six-seat bar on Traffic Way, the distillery quickly gained popularity for its unique spirits and craft cocktails. The Olsons’ passion for hospitality led them to expand their offerings beyond traditional spirits to include hearty meals and small bites.
“Everybody thinks weeds are just something growing out in the woods,” Eric Olson said. “Each one has a component for something. We started harvesting these agaves and making mezcals and tequila-like products, and that’s how we got into that.” The couple’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and unique flavor profiles set their spirits apart from others in the industry.
Today, Central Coast Distillery offers a range of spirits distilled on-site, including bourbon whiskey, gin, rum, vodka, agave-based products, and zinfandel-infused brandy. The distillery’s cocktail menu showcases twists on classic favorites like margaritas and old-fashioneds.
Production & Profile
The Central Coast Distillery produces its spirits using a small-batch process that involves careful monitoring of temperature, humidity, and yeast levels to ensure the highest quality. The distillery’s agave mezcal is sold in small batches in clay bottles with shot glasses as lids.
Anna Olson notes that “the craft is really more important than just the making of the product.” By focusing on unique flavor profiles and attention to detail, Central Coast Distillery has established a reputation for producing exceptional spirits. The distillery’s commitment to quality shines through in every bottle.
Brand & Industry History
The Olsons’ hospitality experience spans over 30 years, working with hotels across southern California and the Central Coast. Their previous venture was a food truck called Centrally Grown, where Eric worked as a chef and experimented with distilling. This experience informed their decision to launch Central Coast Distillery.
“We wanted to do something for ourselves,” Anna Olson said, “so we could spend more time with our children.” Since opening in 2017, the distillery has become an integral part of SLO County’s culinary scene, supporting over 60 bars and restaurants by supplying its spirits.
What This Means
The expansion marks a significant shift for Central Coast Distillery. By moving to the Del Rio Marketplace, the brand is poised to reach new customers while maintaining its commitment to quality and community engagement. The distillery’s focus on experience-driven visitors will set it apart from competitors.
“We’re trying to figure out what event we are going to show with that,” Eric Olson said about their plans for a racing boat display outside the building. “Is it going to be a seafood night, is it going to be a dance? We really feel that we’re a hub for experience.”
Consumer Takeaway
A visit to Central Coast Distillery promises an immersive experience that extends beyond the tasting room. With its expanded offerings and commitment to quality, this SLO County distillery is poised to become a destination spot in Del Rio Marketplace.
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