Sleeping At The Distillery
For a spirits lover, what could be better than visiting a distillery? Sleeping over. Around the world, a handful of distillers are not only opening their doors to the public during the day but also hosting a few lucky guests at night. Safe travels!
Black Star Farms. Suttons Bay, Mich.:
In addition to producing a range of brandies and wines (plus artisanal cheeses from an on-site dairy), Black Star Farms also has a deluxe bed-and-breakfast with eight charming rooms. The establishment sits on 160 acres and has a café, tasting room, and even stables.
Bowmore Distillery. Islay, Scotland:
Fans of smoky, peaty Islay single malts should make a pilgrimage to the island off the west coast of Scotland. But for the full experience, you need to rent one of Bowmore's six recently renovated cottages next to the distillery. Each room includes a complimentary bottle of 12-year-old whiskey.
D. Du Veron Cognac. Cognac, France:
While many cognac houses offer tours, tastings, and gift shops, D. Du Veron Cognac also has the comfortable Château de Mesnac inn right across from its vineyards and distillery. Guests get to sample its spirits and also enjoy traditional meals.
The Glenora Inn and Distillery. Nova Scotia, Canada:
See firsthand how the award-winning Glen Breton Rare single malt is made. You can stay at the brand's quaint inn or in one of its log-cabin chalets. (The season runs from May through October.) Have a dram at its lively pub, which of course has a long list of bottlings.
La Cofradia. Jalisco, Mexico:
La Cofradia is among Mexico's largest makers of tequila for export. It also operates a boutique hotel adjacent to its facility. Guests can arrange a visit to the agave fields or a personal and detailed tour of the whole production process.