Snowflake Whiskey Release: Experience Denver’s Festive Whiskey Event

Picture a pre-dawn celebration where hundreds of whiskey lovers, fueled by spiked coffee and dram-filled donuts, are warmed by a convivial spirit that belies the chilly Denver air. This annual cannot-miss event is a must for brown spirit aficionados.

Each year on a Saturday morning in early December, Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey hosts a release party for Snowflake. The cult whiskey’s name references its singularity, with each “vintage” aged in different types of barrels—no two are exactly alike.

Superfans, known as “Stranafans,” camp out overnight (or longer) to snag one or two bottles while enjoying a festive time of food, music, and cocktails.

“It’s one of the most anticipated releases in the American whiskey industry, and there is truly nothing like it,” says head distiller Owen Martin. Grab a few of your whiskey-loving friends for the spirited trip of a lifetime.

The Details

This year’s release of Snowflake will take place at Stranahan’s on December 7. Most visitors arrive the day before and camp through the night.

“We’ve worked with the city of Denver to ensure we are properly zoned for 130 campsites that will be available on a first-come, first-served basis,” Martin explains.

The first 10 sites are 10’ by 20’ and include parking for cars and RVs, available as early as guests care to arrive— in 2018, that was a full week before the release. The other 120 sites are 8’ by 8’.

Closer to the event, Stranahan’s website will post a full map of the property with line locations and parking information. During the event, staff will provide live updates on social media. If you miss securing a campsite, you can still bring a camping chair and queue up on a closed sidewalk.

What to Do While You Wait

While waiting between pitching your tent and getting your whiskey, there are several options. The Lounge is open Friday, December 6 from noon to 9 p.m.; it provides a cozy spot for whiskey flights and Stranhattans.

“Snowflake Village will be back to keep the night going, with a large heated tent, food trucks, a whiskey bar, live music, and more,” Martin adds.

On Saturday morning, tickets will be distributed to campers and those waiting in line to guarantee the ability to purchase one or two bottles of Snowflake; all members of a group must be present and in line to collect tickets.

Once you have your bottle(s), visit the Merch Shop for whiskey-related swag such as nosing glasses, shirts, and whiskey stones.

You’ve Got Your Whiskey, Now What?

With whiskey in hand, it’s time to visit some of Denver’s biggest hotspots.

The Crawford Hotel

Step inside this luxury hotel conveniently located at Union Station. The hotel features 122 rooms and suites that celebrate the history of the city’s iconic train station, with Art Deco Pullman rooms offering a unique vibe reminiscent of sumptuous sleeper cars.

Kimpton Hotel Born

Also situated in Union Station, this elegantly modern property includes an art gallery and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows in all 200 rooms. Suites offer soaking tubs and stunning views of The Rocky Mountains.

Downstairs, Citizen Rail serves wood-fired dishes such as grilled oysters, mesquite-fired mussels, and bone-in smoked short ribs. Whiskey cocktails, such as the Far From Yokohama, are creative drinks mixing toasted coconut-washed Toki Japanese Whisky and other ingredients.

Terminal Bar

This stylish bar, located in Union Station, buzzes with energy during happy hour and late into the night. Enjoy dishes like tempura cauliflower and grilled pressed Cubano while sipping on whiskey cocktails, such as Wynkoop Sour or the rich B.A.N.A.N.A.S.

Hearth & Dram

Modern saloon aesthetics meet industrial glam at this nearby bar and restaurant, which emphasizes wood-fired fare and an extensive whiskey list of 300 options. Savor well-crafted cocktails or create your flight.

Death & Co.

This trendy cocktail den offers exquisite drinks in a sleek ambiance. An ever-evolving cocktail menu features delightful concoctions like The Last Man Standing and Honshu Punch.

American Bonded

This laid-back spot features a fantastic whiskey selection paired with tempting Southern-inspired dishes, ideal for spending an entire evening on a barstool. Try signature sips like Good vs. Evil, along with decadent cheese curds and tacos.