First non-beer stop was Freeland Spirits in NW Portland near the towering Montgomery Ward blocks.
Lovely spot with nibbles and seasonal cocktails and mocktails and a little shop too with their signature bottle shape and an RTD Gin Rose and Tonic.
I sampled the “whole flight” which had three gins and three bourbons. The gins were each distinct from the previous one and I quite liked them all. The flagship gin had a mint top note. The Forest Gin despite the presence of chanterelles was very spring day in Oregon. The Navy Strength had a real punch to it and would be a boon to the G&T. The bourbons were less impressive in contrast. I found the standard bourbon a little weak and the rye was extra malty and cereal laden. The Cask strength was my favorite of those three.
Next stop (not the same day, don’t worry) was a trip to the Alberta bar and restaurant, the Radio Room. A multi-level and multi-room experience with a fun cocktail list filled with creative new cocktails as well as reimagined old standbys.
Last, but not least was my first visit to Aviation Gin HQ. Since they only have a distillery license, they can only serve so much gin per person but you can get a flight of special monthly cocktails or classic Ryan Reynolds choices or just a G&T.
The candy Valentine cocktails was my choice and all but the last one was really good. The presentation was excellent and the setting and staff was really cool. Did not see any Wrexham gear though.
