We rounded up the best drinks by the bottle from across the West.
We looked all across the West to find the best alcoholic drinks that ship directly to you — from bourbon whiskey to wine to canned spirits. After a few at-home happy hours and taste tests, we can assure you — these really are some of the best drinks the West has to offer. Cheers!
Ghostwood Distilling Co.
Bozeman, MT
Some basic bottle facts regarding Ghostwood Blended Bourbon: It’s 90 proof, made from four premium grains, barrel-matured, and never aged for less than four years. The folks there recommend pairing it with “the stories you’ll share by the light of a campfire on a dark autumn night.” But it’s just about right for any situation that calls for a moment of whiskey bliss. The pepper and spices give its surprisingly smooth taste just enough of a kick. Oh, and as far as whiskey goes, it definitely works. We speak from experience. ghostwoodwhiskey.com
Haykin Family Cider
Aurora, Colorado
Cider maker Daniel Haykin hand-picks U.S.-grown apple varietals and transforms them into an elevated, effervescent alcoholic — and awardwinning — apple-y nectar that will make you wonder why you’ve been serving wine and Champagne all these Thanksgivings. haykinfamilycider.com
Oak & Eden
Bridgeport, Texas
Different varieties from the whiskey company complement various seasons and occasions, but we’re going with the unique Bourbon & Brew: “Taking the creamy sweetness of Oak & Eden Bourbon whiskey, finished with the deep richness found in West Oak Coffee’s cold brew coffee, Bourbon & Brew marries together this unlikely, completely necessary duo.” oakandeden.com
Hope Family Wines
Paso Robles, California
If you want a special bottle to bring out at a party, or something beautifully classic to give to a hostess, look no further than Hope Family’s Austin Hope Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon, ranked in 2018 by Wine Enthusiast as one of the top 100 in the world. hopefamilywines.com
Ranch2O
(pronounced ranch two oh) is a line of canned cocktails incorporating the simplest ingredients. The original is modeled after Ranch Water and includes tequila, sparkling water, and a squeeze of lime. There are also margarita, vodka soda, and gin fizz varieties. Find it in Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas liquor stores or through web retailers such as Drizly and Minibar. ranch2ospirits.com
Texas Southwind Vineyard & Winery
Refugio, Texas
Oh, your cowboy doesn’t drink wine? Show him this bottle and he might change his mind. The Plum Fruit variety is affordable and medium-bodied. texassouthwind.com
From the October 2021 issue
Photography: (All images) courtesy vendors
