How It All Began
In the early 1900’s, Swedish immigrants came to the Yakima Valley, settled, and planted the orchards that surround our distillery. This area became known as “Swede Hill”and is still called that today. Kevin and Pamela Milford are the owners of Swede Hill Distilling, and Pamela’s grandparents were among those immigrants who planted and farmed the land where the distillery currently resides.
Yakima has long been a place of agricultural innovation. Our 300+ days of sunshine not only nurtures agricultural bounty, but it also encourages business innovation in the area of Craft Beverage Production. Swede Hill has been Yakima’s Premium Craft Distillery since 2013. When you hold a bottle of Swede Hill, you are holding an authentic “Farm to Bottle” creation.
Living all of their lives in the Pacific Northwest, Kevin and Pamela have called Yakima their home for many years, and have been surrounded by the diverse and abundant fruit that the valley produces. Rich soils, varied climate and pure water make Washington one of the most productive growing regions in the world.
Our moonshine is a clear, neutral spirit, that is expertly infused in small batches with fresh apples and tart pie cherries, and bottled at 60 proof. Characterized by hints of caramel and vanilla, our single barrel American Whiskey has an exceptionally smooth finish. This well-balanced whiskey is aged for two years in American white oak barrels, using a balance of corn, rye and malted barley. It is bottled at 90 proof.
All of our unique products are very smooth, sip-able craft spirits. They are naturally gluten free, with no preservatives or artificial coloring. Enjoy them neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite cocktail!