If you’re searching for some spirited inspiration for a summer road trip, look no further than the Iowa Distillery Pass. Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or just someone who enjoys an occasional cocktail, this convenient digital passport is a great way to explore the state and support Iowa distillers at the same time.
With distilleries located all across the state, it’s easy to turn these local makers into detours while you’re road tripping or treat them as a destination unto themselves. From iconic names like Templeton Rye to newer distillers establishing a cult following, these spirited spots across Iowa are the perfect places to find a new signature drink on a hot summer day.
Learn more about the Iowa Distillery Pass and how you can start using your own. Plus, discover what I learned during my experience at one of the featured distilleries.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Travel Iowa. However, all opinions are my own.
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How to Use the Iowa Distillery Pass
The Iowa Distillery Pass is free and easy to use for anyone over 21 years of age.
Signing up is quick and easy via the Iowa Distillery Pass’ website. Once you’ve submitted your information, you’ll be texted and emailed a link to download the pass to your mobile device.
After signing up, you’re eligible for deals and discounts at every distillery included in the digital passport. Just open your pass when you arrive, click “Check In” and show your phone to the bartender. Some distilleries offer discounted cocktails while others allow pass holders to take advantage of a free tour of their facilities.
Plus, the first 100 people to check-in at six participating distilleries will win a pair of Iowa rocks glasses!
Explore Iowa Distilleries
Iowa Distilling Company
Recently, I decided to take advantage of my Iowa Distillery Pass and pay a visit to the Iowa Distilling Company just outside of the Des Moines metro. Located in Cumming, Iowa, just off the Great Western Trail, this distillery is a popular destination for cyclists.
Josh and I visited on a Sunday afternoon and the distillery’s tasting room was busy with customers sipping cocktails. For visitors to their tasting room, Iowa Distilling Company offers samples as well as a wide variety of seasonal cocktails using their signature spirits. The distillery produces a variety of different types of spirits from their Prairie Fire cinnamon-flavored whiskey to Swell vodka to Straight Bourbon whiskey.
During our visit, I opted for the refreshing Blackberry Lemonade. This summer drink is made from the distillery’s Zone Vodka, blackberry syrup, lemon juice, lemonade and topped with a splash of ginger ale. Josh ordered the S’mores Old Fashioned. This new take on a classic combines Iowa Distilling Company’s Straight Bourbon, toasted marshmallow syrup, chocolate bitters and is topped with a marshmallow and graham cracker. This toasty cocktail also comes smoked, which adds a rich flavor (and fun presentation) to the drink.
At the Iowa Distilling Company, we enjoyed buy one, get one free cocktails thanks to our Iowa Distillery Pass. After overhearing our conversation with the bartender, we even inspired a few other distillery-goers to check out the pass to take advantage of the deal and check out other distilleries around the state!
Iowa Distilling Company, 4349 Cumming Avenue in Cumming, Iowa
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Share Your Thoughts
I would love to hear from you! Have you downloaded the Iowa Distillery Pass? What are your favorite distilleries in Iowa?
