LAWS Whiskey House

“Every drop of whiskey we sell is made 100% from grain to bottle at our distillery located in Denver, Colorado. We have never sourced one drop of whiskey and we never will. We let American whiskey’s four mother grains inspire us to not only create our four grain straight bourbon, but also to break each grain out into its own expression, showcasing its contribution to the bourbon.” — Al Laws

Appearing on the wall of the distillery are the words, “Craft over commodity. Quality over quantity. Whiskey above all.” Al Laws says if he were to add a fourth it would be, “There are no shortcuts.” These principles guide every decision made at the LAWS Whiskey House in Denver, Colorado. Al says, “We are committed to making the best whiskey possible with no short cuts and no compromises. We craft our whiskey from grain to bottle using 100% American grain, and sourcing from family-owned Colorado farms. It may cost a bit more but we think it is the right thing to do.”

Even though sourcing whiskey isn’t the taboo it used to be, the folks over at Laws need not worry about any naysayers. Every drop of whiskey is made by them, using a four plate pot and column still that’s custom made for them by Vendome Copper Works. Everything they do over at Laws is rooted in premium ingredients, full disclosure, integrity and education. All these factors come into play when distilling their ethically made, high-quality whiskies. The Laws website proudly lists suppliers like Briess Malting, Whiskey Sisters Corn out of Burlington, Colorado Malting Company, and the Independent Stave Company—showcasing the best-of-the-best ingredients that surround this brand with an air of commitment to excellence.

This Colorado whiskey is said to have an edge when it comes to the aging process. The constantly changing pressure and temperature allow the oak barrels used for aging to continue infusing the distillate with char and oak notes year-round; a stark contrast to Kentucky’s sleepy winters in which barrels have little opportunity to move the liquid in and out of the wood. This environment gives the illusion of extra age making a three year whiskey reminiscent of a five or six-year-old product. Laws is best known for their Four Grain Bourbon, but they also make Rye and Wheat whiskies and tempt Whiskey Geeks and Barrel Heads everywhere with their Cask Strength and Bonded editions as well.

Laws is a small, family-owned company that gives back to their community but they’re also a big whiskey on the rise. Whether it’s the stand out signature square bottle or the look on someone’s face when they try these big whiskies for the first time, Laws whiskey does it right. Time (aging) is the most expensive thing when making whiskey, but Al Laws cuts no corners and gives the whiskey the time and respect it deserves. That philosophy is apparent in every sip of this delicious Colorado gold. Thanks, Al–we appreciate it!