Salida Distillery 'Water Rights' Gin, Colorado

Salida Distillery “Water Rights” Colorado Gin brings together the classic structure of juniper with a broader, high-country botanical profile. Made with a wheat grain base and more than a dozen herbs, it is described by the distillery through floral and citrus notes, with locally harvested juniper at its core. Bottled at 43% ABV, it has enough presence for a Martini while its aromatic range also invites a bright, herb-driven cocktail.

Product Details:

• Alcohol by Volume: 43%
• Proof: 86
• Style: Colorado gin
• Base: Wheat grain
• Botanicals: More than a dozen herbs, including locally harvested juniper; the complete botanical list is not published.
• Producer: Salida Distillery
• Owners: Gabe Barnard, Maggie Barnard, and Daniel Gallen

Sensory Description:

Clear in the glass, Water Rights opens with an aromatic lift of citrus and flowers, followed by the resinous, evergreen character of juniper. The nose is layered rather than narrowly piney: the juniper gives it recognizable gin structure, while the many herbs broaden the bouquet with a fresh, garden-like impression. On the palate, bright citrus comes first, then juniper’s crisp, slightly bitter edge, with floral and herbal tones unfolding around it. The wheat grain base gives the middle palate a rounded foundation beneath the botanicals, so the spirit feels flavorful and composed rather than sharp. The finish returns to juniper and lingering herbs, with citrus keeping the impression lively.

Awards & Accolades:

• American Distilling Institute: The distillery’s earlier Whitewater Colorado Gin was reported as a 2025 silver medalist. The distillery currently identifies its gin as ADI medal-winning.

Distiller’s Background:

Salida Distillery is a family-owned producer whose current team includes Gabe Barnard, who oversees production, Maggie Barnard, who leads marketing, sales, and front of house, and owner Daniel Gallen. Its published mission centers on watershed health: the distillery says it uses a solar-powered electric still and a closed-loop water system, and donates a portion of each bottle’s sales to a community nonprofit focused on fire mitigation, forest health, and watershed health.

Serving Suggestions:

Try Water Rights first in a classic Martini, where its juniper, citrus, and herbal character can come through without much competition. It also suits a gin and tonic with a restrained garnish, or a Gimlet with fresh lime. For a more aromatic cocktail, pair it with cucumber and basil, a combination used in a local restaurant’s Water Rights Gimlet. Serve stirred drinks chilled in a coupe or Martini glass, or pour over ice with tonic or soda for a longer, refreshing drink.