Tree House Distillery Triumphs at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Tree House Distillery, a proud extension of Tree House Brewing Company, recently garnered significant recognition at the esteemed 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. This year marked a milestone for the distillery, as it secured four double gold medals in addition to other prestigious accolades, showcasing the quality of its uniquely crafted spirits.
Located in Charlton, Massachusetts, the distillery has rapidly gained a reputation for its dedication to authenticity and excellence in the production of craft spirits. The double gold medals were awarded to four standout products:
The Big Pickle! Gin,
Bourbon Old Fashioned,
Perrine Key Lime Aperitivo, and
Percy's New England Dry Gin. Each of these spirits impressively captures the essence of ingredients sourced directly from local farms and regions, honoring the unique flavors of New England.
Award-Winning Spirits
1. The Big Pickle! Gin
This innovative spirit received a double gold medal with an impressive score of 97. It creatively merges traditional gin botanicals with zesty pickle spices, presenting a refreshingly distinct tasting experience.
2. Bourbon Old Fashioned
Also achieving a double gold, scoring 95, this cocktail is crafted entirely from scratch and embodies Tree House’s commitment to quality. Using locally sourced grains, it offers a rich taste profile, reflecting authentic craftsmanship influenced by classic mixology.
3. Perrine Key Lime Aperitivo
Another double gold medallist, also scoring 97, this vibrant green aperitivo balances the tartness of sun-ripened key limes with a hint of sweetness. Its versatility as a standalone drink or a cocktail base has made it a beloved choice.
4. Percy's New England Dry Gin
With a double gold score of 95, this gin is distilled from New England malted barley and infused with locally sourced botanicals, including apples from Tree House's own farm. It represents a delightful blend of traditional gin characteristics and regional uniqueness.
In addition to these stellar products, several other creations from Tree House Distillery were awarded gold medals, highlighting the breadth of talent and ingenuity present at the distillery. Notable mentions include:
- - Espresso Martini (Gold, Score 90)
- - Caddie Cooler (Gold, Score 93)
- - Concord Club (Gold, Score 93)
- - Paloma (Gold, Score 94)
- - House Wheat Vodka (Gold, Score 94)
To earn a double gold medal, each spirit must be unanimously rated a gold by all judges during blind tastings, affirming not just their excellence but their standing in the industry.
The Distillation Philosophy
Founded in 2021, Tree House Distillery aims to extend the creativity and success of Tree House Brewing Company into the world of craft spirits. Led by Head Distiller John Charles Britton, the distillery adheres to a 'mash-to-bottle' philosophy that ensures meticulous control over each production step.
CEO Nate Lanier expressed his pride in the distillery's recent accomplishments, stating, “Seeing our distillery’s inspired work recognized with such accolades is incredible. I'm most excited to learn that our bourbon, made entirely from scratch, has been recognized as world-class. The secret is out.”
John Britton, the Head Distiller, added, “It’s humbling to see our efforts reaching a wider audience. We have continuously prioritized our craft, and it is thrilling to see that recognition coming our way.”
These honors mark a significant acknowledgment of Tree House Distillery's ascent within the craft spirits landscape, highlighting not just quality but a pioneering spirit that embraces local heritage and innovative practices. The future looks promising as the distillery continues to strive for excellence and push the boundaries of what craft spirits can be.