Waterpocket Distillery Introduces Utah to Exotic Flavors of Botanical Spirits

Waterpocket Distillery crafts historical adaptations of botanical spirits mostly unknown to the United States.

November 8, 2021

Julia and Alan Scott opened the doors of Waterpocket Distillery in 2017 in West Valley. While the distillery makes award-winning gin, rum, and some whiskey under the Robbers Roost label

“We focus a lot on botanical spirits, and we have a grain-to-glass plum brandy,” explains Alan.

The desire to craft historical adaptations of botanical spirits mostly unknown to the United States comes from the couple living overseas in Spain, Hungary, Slovakia and China, and their vision to introduce Utah to these exotic flavors.

The distillery’s Mueller-crafted, steam-energized double pot still system is the heart of Waterpocket. Their small-pot still named Warlock, distills the botanical liqueurs, gin and small batch products, while Witch, the large-pot still, produces the highly concentrated rum and fermented products.

Julia’s work as a chemical engineer with a PhD in biochemistry, paired with Alan’s passion for fermentation, brings a harmonious blend of technical and creative skills to the business.

“I’m proud of pretty much everything that we make,” says Alan. “I’m very proud of our gin, which has won a double gold medal at one of the most difficult contests in the nation — the San Francisco World Spirits Awards.”

Contemplating his interactions with the DABC, he muses, “I would appoint someone to interface with local breweries and distilleries and wineries, and that would be their only job.”

Waterpocket Distillery is located at 2084 W 2200 S, West Valley City, UT

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Heather L. King

Heather is a food and beverage writer and anonymous restaurant critic for a variety of publications in Utah. She’s happy to have reported on Utah’s changing food landscape for more than 20 years. When not dining out, you’ll often find her at local farmers markets shopping for fresh produce and meeting local vendors. During the pandemic lockdown, she spent her time perfecting gin cocktails — often using locally produced spirits and garnishes. She shares her love of great food with her husband and two Great Danes. Her passion for traveling is fueled by experiencing the food cultures of other countries and regions. She owns SLCLunches.com, and you’ll find her sharing her favorite dishes @slclunches.