Willow Creek Distillery to debut dry gin at holiday open house

By Paso Robles Press · Mon Dec 08 2025

PASO ROBLES — Willow Creek Distillery is expanding its portfolio of craft spirits with the release of its inaugural dry gin, a small-batch creation distilled from estate-grown wine grapes and infused with a blend of premium botanicals. The new spirit will make its public debut on Saturday, Dec. 13, during the distillery’s Gin & Jingle Holiday Sweater Party from 1 to 5 p.m. Entry to the event is free.

Crafted by Head Distiller Kevin Coulton, the Willow Creek Dry Gin begins with a neutral spirit derived from grapes grown at Opolo Vineyards, the distillery’s sister winery in the Willow Creek District. The spirit is then infused with juniper, coriander, cardamom, lemon peel, cucumber, peppercorn, angelica root, and other botanicals before undergoing a second distillation to capture its aromatics and layered flavors.

The result, Coulton said, is a clean, complex, juniper-forward gin that pays homage to classic dry gin traditions while carving out its own distinct character.

“Our aim was to honor the traditions of classic dry gin while putting our own distinct mark on the style, ultimately creating a gin that stands out from the crowd,” he said. “We wanted something really clean with a vivid pop of juniper and a beautiful nose that evokes natural forest botanicals. This gin is very flavorful and easy to drink.”

Guests attending the Gin & Jingle open house will be the first to taste the new release while enjoying seasonal bites, spirits tastings, specialty cocktails for purchase, and live holiday music from Dave Tate. Festive sweater attire is encouraged.

The celebration will take place at Opolo Vineyards, located at 7110 Vineyard Drive in Paso Robles.