Anniversaries have a tendency to make us feel nostalgic. 30 years ago, as?the Challenger space shuttle exploded?while the whole world looked on, and Maverick, Goose and Viper were reminding us that we’d all lost that lovin’ feeling,?Clear Creek Distillery was anticipating the rise of the craft spirit movement and began making world class fruit brandies that are now used in innovative cocktail and culinary programs all over the country.

Clear Creek Distillery, which is the second oldest craft distillery in the country, is best known?for making unique spirits such as eau de vie, brandy and grappa. The distinctive essence of fruit comes through as a result of their careful fermentation and distillation of perfectly ripe fruit. They rely on the bounty of some of the best?Pacific Northwest orchards to produce?spirits made?in traditional European pot stills using?age-old techniques learned in Alsace and Switzerland.

In honor of Clear Creek Distillery’s?anniversary, the labels have received a little facelift; think of it as an infusion of spirit. According to General Manager Brad Whiting, “Our new packaging and branding reflects our heritage, and it also brings a modern aesthetic to our overall brand by unifying our product lines under one cohesive design.”

Clear Creek Distillery is open daily for tastings (except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day) and is located at 2389 NW Wilson Street, Portland, Oregon. For more information, visit www.clearcreekdistillery.com.

To celebrate the 30th anniversary, some Portland-based Clear Creek partners have planned special cocktail-inspired events around Portland, including:

Monday, May 2nd, 8?-11pm
Clear Creek Popup at Teardrop Cocktail Lounge
Teardrop Cocktail Lounge, 1015 NW Everett St, Portland

Saturday, May 7th at 6pm
Park Kitchen and Clear Creek Distillery Anniversary Dinner
422 NW 8th Avenue, Portland
Join Chef David Sapp for a five-course dinner with drink pairings by Bar Manager Curtis Day. Dinner is $100, including gratuity and pairings. For reservations, please call 503-223-7275 or email info@parkkitchen.com.

For cocktail recipe ideas from some of Portland’s best mixologists, click here.