Sweetgrass Winery & Distillery’s Old Port tasting room sits in the heart of Portland’s historic cobblestone district on Fore Street, bringing their Union-based operation to Maine’s most walkable neighborhood. Founded by Keith and Constance Bodine in 2005, Sweetgrass started as a winery before expanding into craft spirits, making them one of Maine’s pioneering farm-to-glass operations. The couple, both former corporate professionals who traded spreadsheets for stills, built their reputation on using Maine-grown ingredients and traditional techniques. The Portland tasting room opened as an extension of their main facility, allowing visitors to sample their full range without the drive to Union. Keith’s background in agriculture and Constance’s business acumen created a operation that’s both grounded in farming principles and savvy about hospitality. They’ve built relationships with local grain farmers and focus on spirits that reflect Maine’s agricultural character, from potato vodka to apple brandy. The Fore Street location captures that Old Port energy while maintaining Sweetgrass’s farm roots. You’re tasting spirits made 45 minutes away but experiencing them in the context of Portland’s food and drink scene. The staff knows the products inside and out because they’re connected to the source, and you can walk out with bottles while exploring one of New England’s best food cities.