Editor’s Note: Photos at end of article. 

The grand opening for Shelter Distilling is almost here, and a short tour of the new building at the Colorado Outdoors revealed a gigantic distilling and brewing facility (10,000 square feet), workers hustling to get ready and contractors putting the finishing touches on the building.

The 14,000 square-foot facility broke ground in 2022 and it will be open to the public this Saturday, May 18.

“In our quest for adventure and innovation, we’ve found the perfect location for our expansion— a space that seamlessly blends retail and production into one,” said Shelter co-founder and master distiller, Jason Senior in a release on the distillery’s website. “Here in Montrose, we utilize locally sourced ingredients and access exceptionally fresh, pure water for distilling. The results are premium spirits our fans never tire of—just like another run down the mountain or hike through the woods.”

The small-batch distillery based in Mammoth Lakes, California (the original location for Shelter) doesn’t compare to the new facility, said co-founder Karl Anderson, during the tour on Wednesday.

The facility in Montrose (technically a brewery and distillery) is poised to produce 15-25 barrels per week and features equipment to create various spirits, canned cocktails and beer.

In addition to the brewing/distilling facility is a full restaurant and bar (with glass windows looking into the production facility), complete with outdoor seating just feet the Uncompahgre River.