Fun fact: “whiskey” means “water of life” in Gaelic. If you’re wondering where to get whiskey in Essex County on this World Whiskey Day – an annual celebration taking place on the third Saturday in May – we’ve got you covered. We’re highlighting local spots that carry some top-shelf whiskey for tastings, events, and gatherings. The day serves as a way to learn about and promote good whiskey as the enjoyable and fun spirit it is. Whiskey-lovers rejoice, and keep reading for where to find a sought-after bottle or glass of whiskey in Essex County.
Disclaimer: You must be 21+ to try these top-shelf whiskey spots. Please consume your whiskey responsibly.
All Points West | 73 Tichenor Street, Newark
(Photo credit: @allpointswestdistillery)
For those looking for a distillery experience in nearby Newark, All Points West is an excellent choice. It has a variety of gin, vodka, and whiskey options. All Points West delivers rich tasting spirits such as its award-winning Malt and Grain Pot Still Whiskey. All Points West also offers tasting tours and cocktails on weekends.
Claremont Distillery | 25 Commerce Road, Fairfield
(Photo credit: @claremontdistillery)
Another one of Jersey’s own fine spirit distillers, Claremont Distilled Spirits Inc. in Fairfield boasts a wide selection of vodka, moonshine, and bourbon. The distillery features an apple pie and cinnamon moonshine for a unique, local World Whiskey Day. Whether you’re looking for a traditional tasting spirit or a top-shelf experience, Claremont has something to offer for everyone.
Read More: Bars in the Montclair Area to Visit Based on Your Drink Preferences
DeNovo | 275 Bellville Avenue, Upper Montclair + 1257 River Road, Edgewater
(Photo credit: @denovomontclair)
Denovo brings a little bit of Europe to Montclair (and Edgewater, if you’re looking to go to Bergen County). The outdoor seating makes for the perfect place to spend the warmer weather ahead while sipping on one of the signature cocktails. Whiskey choices include anything from Maker’s Mark and JW (Red, Black, and Blue), to local favorites like Misunderstood Whiskey.
Egan + Sons | 118 Walnut Street, Montclair
(Photo credit: @eganandsons)
Egan + Sons is a classic yet upscale pub. It’s known as an essential Montclair-area eatery and has a beautiful indoor and outdoor dining area. There’s an extensive beer list, but Egan + Son’s also serves a variety of cocktails. The pub offers over 50 choices of Bourbon, Scotch, and Rye for whiskey-filled celebrations.
Jersey Artisan Distilling | 32 Pier Lane West, Fairfield
Jersey Artisan Distilling is a no-nonsense distillery making classic-style whiskey and rum since 2015. The distillery prides itself on serving traditional spirits that are delicious either on their own or in a cocktail. Jersey Artisan Distilling is open for tours and tastings on the second Saturday of the month by reservation – you can also check out their website for upcoming events.
Jersey Spirits Distilling Co. | #40B, 1275 Bloomfield Avenue Building 7, Fairfield
(Photo credit: @jerseyspirits)
Jersey Spirits Distilling Company offers a truly unique selection of spirits. The distillery’s more novel spirits are what really shine here. Between the white maple whiskey, Jersey Apple Hooch, and the Barnegat White Whiskey – while also offering tours, tastings, and a great outdoor seating area for the warmer months – you’ll want to add this spot to your NJ bucket list.
MoonShine Modern Supper Club | 55 Main Street, Millburn
(Photo credit: @moonshinesupperclub)
At MoonShine Modern Supper Club, patrons can enjoy new takes on retro-classic dishes in a bi-level space, which features an expansive 30-foot bar with comfortable lounge seats. At MoonShine, specialty cocktails are the star – both original creations and updates on classics. Joe’s Truth Serum is a drink that will have anyone celebrating World Whiskey Day – it comes with Evan Williams Bourbon, Solerno Blood Orange Liquor, and Madeira 5-Year (stirred & served up with a brandied cherry). This Millburn gem also carries Moonshine – which will put a fun twist on anyone’s World Whiskey Day.
See More: A Guide to Mocktails in North Jersey
The Barrow House | 1296 Van Houten Avenue, Clifton
(Photo credit: @thebarrownj)
The Barrow House is a 19th-century farmhouse turned restaurant and bar in Clifton. The Barrow House’s whiskey selection is some of the best in the area. We recommend the Western Sour (includes Old Forester Bourbon, grapefruit, falernum, cinnamon, and lime), and the One in a Melon (a drink with Suntory Toki Japanese Whiskey, Italicus Bergamot Liqueur, cantaloupe, falernum, and lime).
Misunderstood Whiskey | Local Retail Stores
(Photo Credit: @misunderstoodwhiskey)
While this is not a specific location, Misunderstood Whiskey launched in Montclair, New Jersey five years ago and has greatly expanded since. The high-quality spirit has turned into a nationally-known brand and can be shipped to over 42 states. Served both on the rocks and in a cocktail, this ginger-spiced whiskey has become popular for many reasons. After initially launching in 2017, Misunderstood Whiskey was only sold in three local markets: Montclair, Jersey City, and Hoboken. The owners were also self-distributing the liquor at the time to bring attention to the brand organically and were focused on building a strong digital following to educate and engage followers. This local-turned-national whiskey is a great way to celebrate World Whiskey Day — and support a Montclair-born company at the same time.
