Beer isn’t the only alcohol being brewed in Jersey City. Hudson County’s first distillery — Corgi Spirits Jersey City — officially opens tonight at 1 Distillery Drive.
The 10,000-square-foot facility is run by entrepreneur and Harvard Business School graduate, Bob Hagemann. Hagemann wanted to open a British-inspired drinking distillery and tasting room right here in Jersey City and after a few brief delays — and a mini preview this past weekend — opening day has come for Corgi Spirits Jersey City.
Getting There
Corgi Spirits is just a few blocks away from the Garfield Avenue Light Rail Station. From downtown Jersey City, you can also hop on an Uber/Lyft, which will cost about $9 one-way from Exchange Place. Once you cross the Light Rail tracks on Pacific Avenue, you’ll need to make a very sharp left onto Distillery Drive (there’s a Corgi Spirits sign where you need to make the left) and the distillery is located at the end of Distillery Drive.
Layout
Corgi Spirits has three sections: the distillery, the tasting room, and the lounge. They’re all interconnected and each room has its own distinct vibe. The tasting room is wide and open with a long bar counter, small retail section, and sofas/chairs lined up against the walls. It’s a little brighter than your typical bar, but a comfy space to enjoy a drink. A few steps away is the glass-enclosed lounge area, which has a (slightly) darker vibe complete with a faux library, leather sofas, and fireplace.
The Drinks
Whereas some gins are made from various distilled spirits that may contain gluten/grain and then infused with Juniper berries, all of Corgi’s products are gluten free and made from potatoes. When it comes to taste, that means Corgi’s gin doesn’t have that traditional spicy, pine tree-like taste of most gins, but rather a soft floral nose followed by a slight citrus finish. It’s a unique taste (think Hendricks) that’s smooth and not overpowering. Corgi’s other spirits include an Earl Grey Gin and a six-times distilled vodka. Their cocktail menu will be seasonal and will also include a list of “mocktails” for drivers and customers who prefer not to drink alcoholic beverages.
Food
Corgi Spirits doesn’t have a food menu, but food trucks will be located outside the distillery and patrons will be able to bring food indoors.
Dogs
Unfortunately, state laws prohibit pups from entering Corgi Spirits. They’re welcome outside the distillery, but you can’t drink outside. On the plus side, a portion of Corgi Spirit’s profits will be donated to local animal rescue, See Spot Rescued.
Hours
Corgi Spirits will open Wednesdays through Sundays at these hours — Wed/Thurs: 5pm to 11pm, Friday: 5pm to 12am, Saturday: 2pm to 12am, and Sunday 2pm to 10pm.
