Port Chilkoot Distillery sits right in downtown Haines, Alaska, at 34 Blacksmith Street, housed in a restored building that fits perfectly with the town’s frontier character. Founded by Heather Shade, a former Juneau resident who fell in love with Haines and decided to bring craft distilling to this remote corner of Southeast Alaska, the distillery opened its doors in 2013. The operation focuses on small-batch spirits that capture the essence of Alaska, using local ingredients whenever possible and drawing inspiration from the rugged landscape surrounding them. Shade’s journey to distilling wasn’t typical—she moved to Haines for the outdoor lifestyle and community feel, then realized the town needed something unique for both locals and the steady stream of cruise ship passengers and adventure travelers. The distillery occupies a compact space that maximizes every square foot, with production equipment sharing room with a cozy tasting area. They produce vodka, gin, and seasonal specialties, with each batch reflecting the care that comes from operating at this scale in such a remote location. Visiting Port Chilkoot feels like discovering a hidden gem that most people never knew existed. The tasting room has that authentic Alaskan vibe—unpretentious but welcoming, with Shade often personally greeting visitors and sharing stories about life in Haines and the challenges of running a distillery where the nearest major city is a flight or long ferry ride away. You’re not just tasting spirits; you’re getting a genuine slice of small-town Alaska life.