Uncle Jumbo’s Distillery’s satellite tasting room is now officially open at the corner of Elmwood and Hodge. Owner Nick Kotrides is putting the final details in place, but the spirits are flowing, and so are the spirited conversations.
“I designed the bar to be conversational, like a barber shop,” said Kotrides, as he handed me and my friend a couple of different product samples to taste.
Kotrides hit the nail on the head with his description of the bar, which is laid out in a way that makes it easy to interact with everyone. And Kotrides, always the consummate host, makes sure that everyone is included in the entertaining dialogue, much of which revolves around the Uncle Jumbo’s beverages (see backstory).
Uncle Jumbo was Grover Cleveland’s nickname.
As we (the entire bar) discussed the vodka coolers that Kotrides was promoting, as well as other distilled drinks, a question was raised about the smoothness of the spirits.
“Yes, it’s called the ‘heart of the run,'” said Kotrides. “There are no heads (beginning of the run) or tails (end of the run) – we don’t capture anything less than 190 proof.”
Kotrides is not only proud to carry “stripping runs” of the distilled spirits, he’s also proud to carry cocktails, wine, beer, cider, and mead that are all made with New York State farmed products. That means that by supporting Uncle Jumbo’s, customers are also supporting New York growers, makers… and a distiller that understands the importance of keeping money circulating in the regional economy.
It’s great seeing this corner spot back in action. As soon as the weather starts to cooperate, the windows will be hoisted open, and Uncle Jumbo’s will be more animated than ever. The tasting room my not be the biggest bar on the block, but its quaint size is amplified by its big heart. And what’s more endearing and appreciated than that?
The next time that you’re in the mood for ready-to-drink cocktails, forego any of the national brands, and stick closer to home with offerings from Uncle Jumbo’s.
Get connected: Uncle Jumbo’s Tasting Room | 470 Elmwood Avenue, at Hodge | www.unclejumbosdistillery.com | Bourbon, American Vodka, Ready to Drink Cocktails, 300 Superior Vodka