Madrona Distillery Opens New Home on Orcas Island

Madrona Distillery has officially opened the doors to its new distillery and tasting room on Orcas Island, marking a significant milestone for the growing American craft spirits producer.

Following weeks of transporting equipment and stock across the water, the distillery received its liquor licence late on Friday and immediately opened to visitors. Despite a quiet launch, the tasting room saw strong footfall across its first weekend, with visitors undeterred by typical island weather.

The new site represents a notable evolution from the distillery’s previous home in Redmond, offering an expanded and elevated visitor experience. The space includes a light-filled tasting room with views across local orchards and the surrounding landscape, alongside dedicated areas for both over-21 guests and mixed-age groups. Plans are also in place to introduce an outdoor seating area.

A new cocktail programme showcases the distillery’s spirits, including a signature Salish Sea Martini featuring Navy Strength American Gin, alongside zero-proof options. The visitor experience is further enhanced through the use of premium glassware and an expanded retail offering, allowing guests to recreate serves at home.

Initially open four days a week, the distillery is positioning itself as a destination for visitors to the San Juan Islands, contributing to the region’s growing reputation for craft spirits and experiential tourism.

Madrona Distillery’s relocation and expansion underline continued investment in both production and visitor engagement, reflecting broader growth within the international craft gin and spirits sector.