Coming up on its first anniversary, Painted Stave Distilling is pouring on the marketing by pouring samples at every event it can find this fall. “We’re trying really hard to have a true local flavor,” says owner Mike Rasmussen, who opened the distillery with chemist Ron Gomes Jr. in a renovated theater in Smyrna in November. Since then, Painted Stave has produced more than 500 cases of its mainstay spirits—Silver Screen Vodka, Candy Manor Gin and Old Cooch’s Corn Whiskey—as well as some one-offs, such as an espresso vodka made with beans from the vintage roaster at Young Bean Café in neighboring Clayton, and a scrapple vodka. Coming soon: barrel-aged bourbon, rye and brandy. “We’re always looking to improve or add some new spin to what we do,” Rasmussen says. Look for the pair at the Philadelphia Food & Wine Festival, DelTech’s Gourmet Gala and the Delaware Wine and Beer Festival, all in October. (653-6834, www.paintedstave.com)
