The Block Distilling Co. sits in Denver’s RiNo (River North Art District) at 2990 Larimer Street, occupying a converted warehouse space that fits perfectly with the neighborhood’s industrial-meets-artsy vibe. Founded in 2014 by Ted Palmer and his partners, this operation started as Denver’s first distillery since Prohibition ended. Palmer, who previously worked in finance, caught the distilling bug and decided to transform a 6,000-square-foot warehouse into a full-scale spirits production facility. They focus primarily on whiskey, gin, and vodka, using a 500-gallon copper still from Germany that dominates their production floor. The journey from concept to opening wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. Palmer and his team spent nearly two years navigating Denver’s zoning laws and permitting process, becoming pioneers in establishing what would eventually become a thriving craft distilling scene in the city. The team includes head distiller Ryan Lowe, who brings experience from Colorado’s brewing industry and applies those fermentation skills to spirits production. Their philosophy centers on using Colorado ingredients when possible and letting the natural flavors speak for themselves rather than over-engineering the process. Visitors walk into a working distillery where you can see the entire operation from grain to bottle. The tasting room occupies the front portion of the warehouse, with exposed brick walls, concrete floors, and large windows that flood the space with natural light. You’ll hear the hum of production equipment and catch whiffs of fermenting grain and aging spirits. The atmosphere feels authentically industrial rather than polished touristy, which either appeals to you or it doesn’t.