When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
OOLA Distillery Production & Tours (Visit by Appointment Only)
Why OOLA Distillery Production & Tours (Visit by Appointment Only) is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
OOLA Distillery stands out as Seattle's oldest craft distillery, specializing in small-batch, award-winning spirits made from locally and sustainably harvested grains. This establishment is a prime destination for friends seeking a unique and memorable gathering spot centered around artisanal spirits. The distillery offers intimate tours and tastings by appointment, providing a behind-the-scenes view of their careful production processes. Visitors can enjoy sampling their flagship offerings, including high-rye bourbon, gin, and vodka, all crafted with a deep commitment to quality and local sourcing. With its cozy atmosphere and expert staff, OOLA Distillery is an inviting venue to explore the flavors of Washington state through expertly distilled spirits, making it an excellent place to meet and enjoy a shared experience with friends.
Here's what people think of OOLA Distillery Production & Tours (Visit by Appointment Only)
As of recent, OOLA Distillery Production & Tours (Visit by Appointment Only) holds a 4.9-star rating based on 47 reviews.
Reviews of OOLA Distillery consistently reflect high praise, with a 4.9 rating from 47 reviewers highlighting the quality and authenticity of the spirits produced. Many reviewers commend the friendly and knowledgeable staff who enhance the tastings with insightful background on the distillation process and the local ingredients used. Positive reviews frequently mention the intimate and personalized atmosphere of the tours, as well as the exceptional taste and smoothness of their flagship Waitsburg Whiskey Bourbon and other craft spirits such as gin and vodka. On the other hand, a few critiques point to the limited tour availability—only by appointment and a specific tour time on Saturdays—which can be restrictive for spontaneous visits. Additionally, some users note that the tasting sessions are brief, lasting between one to two hours, which may feel rushed to those wanting a more leisurely experience. Overall, the reviews conclude that OOLA Distillery delivers a refined, authentic craft distillery experience that is well worth planning ahead to visit, making it a top choice for spirit enthusiasts and groups looking for quality, locally produced options in Seattle.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Joanne KL
OOLA Distillery is a Must-Visit! If you're in Seattle and even remotely curious about craft spirits, do yourself a favor and make OOLA Distillery a priority stop. Tthis place is a masterclass in small-batch excellence. I went in expecting a solid bourbon experience—and yes, their bourbon is rich, smooth, and beautifully balanced—but I walked out absolutely raving about their gin. It’s unexpectedly phenomenal: bright, aromatic, and layered with botanicals that make every sip a discovery. The tour was a highlight. It’s intimate, informative, and full of passion. You can tell the team at OOLA genuinely loves what they do. From grain to glass, they walk you through their meticulous process, and the tasting at the end is the cherry on top. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey aficionado or just looking for a cool, authentic Seattle experience, this place delivers. OOLA isn’t just a distillery—it’s a celebration of craftsmanship. Go for the bourbon, stay for the gin, and leave with a newfound appreciation for what small-batch spirits can be. Highly recommend!
Danielle Toro
What a great distillery! Our tour guide Dario was very knowledgeable about the product and the process. He had a great sense of humor which made it even more enjoyable. Kirby was there as well and it was a pleasure to meet the master distiller who is not only the genius behind the great products but who is also an interesting and nice person to talk with. It was a good time and we learned a lot!
Kathy Voorhees
What a fun experience, Kirby was so much fun and knowledgeable an I loved and purchased the Citrus Vodka.
Sarah Trethewey
I recently took a private tour with the master distiller. My parents and friends came along as well. I loved the tour and enjoyed learning about the science behind distilling. I would recommend modifying the tour so guests could taste products while learning about them rather than tasting them all at the end. P.S. I also learned that the distillery is a supporter of the arts which is a great bonus reason to support their business.
aidan marts
If you are interested in getting a full rundown on whiskey, gin, and vodka production this is the place to visit! We took a tour of the facility on a Saturday with a small group of others and were lucky enough to have the owner be our tour guide. Not only was he incredibly knowledgeable but he also went through almost every liquor they produce and the unique ingredients that go into them. After the tour concluded we sampled a flight of 6 different liquors. If you aren't a gin person; try their gin as it is much more mellow and others in the tour group that weren't gin people before this agreed that the OOLA gin is different and that they would drink it again. The tour and sampling isn't an overly polished corporate affair but simply a passionate brewer with the ability to try new and interesting concepts that large distillers won't. Overall, worth a visit and you'll leave having learned a wealth of information!
How to reach OOLA Distillery Production & Tours (Visit by Appointment Only)
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Why OOLA Distillery Production & Tours (Visit by Appointment Only) may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at OOLA Distillery Production & Tours with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a meetup at OOLA Distillery offers an exceptional experience that combines quality spirits, craftsmanship, and an intimate setting perfect for memorable moments. Rated an impressive 4.9 out of 47 reviews, this Seattle-based distillery showcases itself as the city’s oldest craft distillery, known for producing award-winning small-batch Gin, Whiskey, and Vodka made from locally and sustainably harvested grains. The appeal of hosting a meetup here lies not only in the superior quality of its spirits but also in the unique opportunity to explore behind-the-scenes of artisan distilling, a chance to bond over a shared appreciation for craft beverages. Unlike typical bars or event spaces, OOLA Distillery operates by appointment only, making each visit feel exclusive, personalized, and tailored to your group’s interest. This thoughtful approach enhances the social experience, allowing your gathering to feel more private and special. As you and your friends immerse yourselves in the story and process of distillation, you also get to taste the results, deepening your appreciation through a sensory journey. OOLA Distillery is not just a place to drink, but a destination to connect, learn, and celebrate together.
What activities can you do at OOLA Distillery that make it perfect for group meetups?
OOLA Distillery offers a variety of activities specially designed to engage groups and make any event unique and enjoyable. The core experience is the private distillery tour, available by appointment for parties of 10 or more. During these tours, your group is guided through the production facility, where you learn about the art and science behind small-batch spirit creation. This immersive educational walk through the craftsmanship enhances your group's shared knowledge and creates conversations that go beyond the usual drinking occasion. Following the tour, groups have the opportunity to taste the distillery’s flagship products—carefully balanced Whiskeys, Gins, and Vodkas that reflect the founder’s passion and refined palate. This tasting element ensures everyone can enjoy and discuss their favorite flavors, making the experience much more interactive and memorable.
In addition to tours, OOLA Distillery hosts cocktail classes which offer a fantastic group activity. These classes make excellent team-building opportunities or a playful way to elevate your friends’ or family’s cocktail skills. Learning techniques to craft cocktails with award-winning spirits adds value to the meetup and encourages participation. The combination of hands-on learning and taste testing encourages camaraderie and fun, making the distillery a dynamic venue that goes beyond the conventional meet and greet. Furthermore, the distillery occasionally conducts special events that may align with your gathering dates, offering another layer of entertainment and exclusivity.
Why is OOLA Distillery a great choice for a group seeking a private and personalized meetup?
One of the biggest draws of OOLA Distillery is its appointment-only policy, which ensures your group has focused attention and a curated experience without distractions. This exclusivity guarantees a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, perfect for both casual gatherings and special celebrations alike. Unlike typical public events or crowded bars, here your group gets full access to the space and the staff’s expertise, lending a strong sense of connection and personalization to your visit. Booking a private tour or class allows your party to ask questions, interact directly with the founder and distiller Kirby Kallas-Lewis or knowledgeable staff, and cater the experience to your collective interests.
The distillery’s physical space, while not a large-scale venue, provides a cozy industrial-chic ambiance that encourages socializing and laughter. It’s a setting where conversations flow naturally over beautifully crafted drinks, enhancing the atmosphere with authenticity and warmth. Additionally, the commitment to sustainability and local sourcing shown by OOLA also resonates with groups that value conscientious consumption, adding an ethical dimension to your meetup experience. This combination of exclusivity, education, and ambiance makes OOLA Distillery a top-tier choice when considering venues for group activities around Seattle.
What sets OOLA Distillery’s craft spirits apart in terms of quality and taste?
OOLA Distillery’s spirits are uniquely distinguished by their balance, complexity, and smooth finish, characteristics that come from the careful blend of grains and recipe refinement. Founder and head distiller Kirby Kallas-Lewis emphasizes the harmony between various grains such as corn, rye, malted barley, and wheat, ensuring none dominate but instead complement each other. For example, their whiskey features a high rye content for complexity while preserving a mellow corn influence to maintain roundness and depth. This thoughtful distilling philosophy results in spirits that are not only award-winning but also approachable for both novices and connoisseurs, making tasting with friends engaging and educational.
Their Gin, Whiskey, and Vodka are made in small batches with a commitment to quality that mass-produced products cannot match. Because the grains are sustainably harvested locally, the flavor profile is fresher and more vibrant, connecting each sip back to Seattle’s terroir. This level of dedication appeals to customers seeking authentic craft experiences, especially groups who want to share quality moments together. Being the oldest craft distillery in Seattle further solidifies OOLA’s reputation and legacy—a point of pride that you and your friends can raise a glass to during your visit.
How can you arrange a visit to OOLA Distillery, and what makes the booking process ideal for group gatherings?
Arranging a visit to OOLA Distillery is straightforward but intentionally designed to prioritize privacy and personalized attention. Public tours are not regularly available; instead, they exclusively offer visits by appointment, primarily targeting group bookings of 10 or more people. To schedule your meetup, you simply email their team at INFO@OOLADISTILLERY.com, specifying your party size and preferred times. This pre-scheduled approach allows the distillery to prepare for your group’s arrival with a tailored itinerary, including tour focuses and tasting menus, ensuring nobody feels rushed or overlooked.
This booking style is ideal for groups because it guarantees an intimate experience dedicated solely to your party, free from interruptions by unrelated guests. It also fosters better communication with the distillery, allowing for any special requests or accommodations to be arranged ahead of time—including cocktail classes or customized event elements. For hosts wanting to impress friends or family or facilitate team bonding, this level of customization and exclusivity elevates the meetup considerably. The anticipation of having a private, behind-the-scenes look at a respected local distillery adds excitement and sets distinct expectations for a truly standout gathering.
What makes the story and founder behind OOLA Distillery meaningful for visitors?
The story of OOLA Distillery and its founder Kirby Kallas-Lewis adds a compelling narrative that resonates during visits and gatherings. Kirby brings a rich, diverse background blending artistry, food, wine appreciation, and global experience—from being an art dealer in major cities to raising goats in Tahiti and running galleries. This creative and eclectic history translates into craft distilling as an alchemical and artistic process, inspiring the unique approach at OOLA.
Kirby’s passion and dedication are evident in how OOLA’s spirits are crafted with artistry and precision, and hearing the founder’s perspective during tours or events personalizes the experience. The distillery’s name honors "Oola," his beloved German Shepherd, adding a warm, heartfelt touch that visitors often appreciate hearing. This story imbues your meetup with more substance than just drinking spirits; it becomes a connection to the passion and personality inspiring the products you enjoy. Sharing this story with your friends or family deepens the experience, enriching social bonds with thoughtful conversation and appreciation.
Why does the location and setting of OOLA Distillery enhance the meetup experience?
Situated in Seattle, OOLA Distillery benefits from being part of a vibrant city known for its craft beverage culture, yet it maintains a distinct feeling of discovery thanks to its appointment-only operating model. Located at 6005 12th Ave S in Seattle, the spot is accessible for locals and visitors, nestled in a neighborhood that invites exploration before or after your event. The building itself reflects the industrial authenticity of craft production rather than a flashy commercial venue, which appeals to groups looking for an unpretentious environment that still delivers quality and sophistication.
This setting encourages guests to relax, savor the experience, and focus on their company and the spirits. The weekend tour time at 3 p.m. on Saturdays adds convenience, but the real advantage is the private tours during the week by appointment, allowing your group to inhabit the space exclusively. The availability of cocktail classes and special events within this intimate setting fosters a sense of community and education, reinforcing the social aspect of your meetup. For groups seeking a venue that is distinctive, comfortable, and steeped in craft tradition, OOLA Distillery stands out as a superb choice.
Hosting a gathering at OOLA Distillery Production & Tours means offering your friends or family an experience far beyond a typical night out. The combination of private, appointment-only access; immersive distillery tours; engaging cocktail classes; and expertly crafted, award-winning spirits create an environment perfectly suited to meaningful social interaction and celebration. Whether you want to learn, taste great drinks, or simply enjoy quality time in a cozy and authentic venue, OOLA Distillery provides all the ingredients necessary for a memorable and enriching meet-up.