Karen Hoskin, founder, Montanya Distillers in Crested Butte
Montanya Distillers, founded by Karen Hoskin, has received awards at the Women’s Wine and Spirits Awards, and more.
What inspired you to get into the distilling industry?
I have a lifelong passion for premium rum. Before I opened my own distillery, I visited Guatemala and learned about the tradition of distilling rum in the mountains. I realized I could bring that tradition back with me, and started distilling rum here in Colorado.
How would you describe the Colorado spirits scene?
The Colorado spirit scene is vibrant. Colorado easily embraced craft spirits because of its history with beer and wine. It’s been an amazing place to be a part of the growing craft spirits industry, beginning when we were one of the first on the scene in 2008.
In a few words, how is your distillery unique?
Montanya has been changing paradigms since the day we opened. We were the first female-owned and B Corp-certified distillery in Colorado. We’ve been setting a standard for quality and responsible business since 2008.
What’s your go-to cocktail or a current seasonal favorite?
A current seasonal favorite is our Maple Old Fashioned, which features our Oro Rum, organic maple syrup and housemade cardamom-grapefruit bitters, and is served in a cherry-bark smoked glass.
What’s the best part of what you do?
Working with the incredibly talented staff at Montanya. They raise the bar every day with the quality of their work.
Source: Westword.
This is a shortened version of the original article.
