Deviation Distilling, downtown Denver’s only gin distillery, is set to open in the heart of Dairy Block’s mixed-used alley tomorrow, September 2. Deviation is the brainchild of Bob and Cindi Wiley and Gade. Interior designer Chelsea Fish and architect Jim Pfeiffer of UNUM collaborative, designed the establishment that transforms an 1800s firehouse into a lively patio, intimate lounge, and event space.
“Surrounded by world-class dining, lodging, and retail, we are thrilled to bring the first distillery to Dairy Block,” said Deviation Distilling Co-Founder Cindi Wiley. “The energy, the foot-traffic, the year-round nearby events and everyday activity, create a destination that is unmatched in Denver.”
Spanning two levels, visitors are greeted with a stunning bottle light display with hundreds of Deviation Distilling bottles that guide the guest throughout the space. The first level features ample patio seating in the Alley, while two large garage doors connect the patio space to the indoor bar area. The second level features a more intimate experience with a dark lounge, private tables, and banquette seating. The 1,791-square-foot space, located at 1821 Blake St., has a capacity for 105 people and will be available to reserve for private events.
Deviation Distilling, known for its use of unique global ingredients, will be releasing a new cocktail menu, which will include a Churro Old Fashioned and Split Decision featuring two of Deviaton’s gins, as well as offer beloved best-sellers such as Cucumber Basil and Paloma with Thai chili simple syrup. The taproom will also have light, sharable bites, such as charcuterie boards and a gourmet cupcake flight. In addition to its well-known, award-winning gins, Deviation Distilling is releasing two Dairy Block-exclusive products. The Blood Orange Gin, developed by head distiller Dave Gade, will be available on opening day. They will also be releasing a barrel-finished whiskey using fellow Dairy Block resident Blanchard Family Wines’ Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel barrel mid-September.
“The founders of Deviation are passionate ‘makers’ and we are thrilled to have them activating this historic space,” said Dairy Block General Manager Don Cloutier. “Dairy Block is home to an eclectic mix of cocktail establishments and we are excited to add a Deviation tasting room to the mix.”
Deviation Distilling opened in the Baker neighborhood in 2019. The distillery and lounge has since closed its Baker location and will be expanding its production facility to Sheridan, Colo.
Rendering courtesy of Deviation Distilling
