Dark Island Spirits Distillery: A Must-Visit Tasting Destination in the 1000 Islands
Located in the heart of Alexandria Bay and a short drive from Swan Bay Resort, Dark Island Spirits Distillery presents itself as more than just a distillery. It is an engaging destination that offers visitors a genuine taste of New York while providing a unique experience within the scenic Thousand Islands region.
Dark Island Spirits is a charming family-owned distillery where passion and craftsmanship come together to create truly exceptional spirits! Proudly use over 90% locally sourced fruits and grains from the lush landscapes of New York State, allowing every bottle to capture the essence of our region’s rich agricultural heritage.
When you step inside our rustic yet inviting distillery, you’ll witness the art of distillation in action, with every bottle crafted right here onsite, from grain to glass. Our knowledgeable and cheerful team is eager to share their expertise, providing you with fascinating insights into our unique production process.
Dark Island Spirits is known for its small-batch, grain-to-glass production, with every spirit meticulously crafted onsite. Visitors are welcomed into the process and encouraged to ask questions, gaining insight into the artistry behind the distillery’s creations. Their product lineup showcases a wide variety of handcrafted options to suit every taste, including rich, barrel-aged whiskeys, smooth rums, clean and crisp vodkas, decadent cream liqueurs, and a range of flavored whiskeys and brandies. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply curious, each spirit tells a story of local pride, quality ingredients, and time-honored techniques.
What truly distinguishes Dark Island Spirits is that it’s more than just a venue for sampling exceptional spirits—it’s an immersive tasting destination designed for exploration and enjoyment. Here, you can indulge in expertly curated spirit-tasting flights that showcase a variety of unique flavors alongside meticulously crafted cocktails that elevate the classic bar experience. Complementing the spirits, you’ll also find a selection of locally brewed New York craft beers that highlight the rich brewing culture of the region.
On those sweltering summer afternoons, nothing beats their famous adult and virgin slushies, which are not only refreshing but also a delightful way to cool off in style. Guests can savor their drinks in the inviting indoor tasting room, adorned with a cozy ambiance, or bask in the sunshine on the charming outdoor patio, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Adding to the appeal, you're encouraged to bring your food, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely picnic. So grab some snacks, unwind, and immerse yourself in an afternoon filled with sipping and savoring at Dark Island Spirits.
For those eager to explore further, a self-guided virtual tour is available on their website, offering a comprehensive overview of their production process and history. However, for an even richer experience, consider visiting in person. During your visit, you can inquire about their onsite tours, which provide an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at their small-batch production methods. Each step of the process, from selecting the finest grains to the final pour, reflects a commitment to quality and craftsmanship. You’ll discover how local pride and tradition are intricately woven into every bottle, making it not just a product but a story of the region and its artisans.
Guests at Swan Bay Resort will be pleased to know that Dark Island Spirits is a regular favorite at our Friday Farmers Market, offering samples and bottles for purchase right on the property. They’re also a featured stop on our popular Swan Bay Wine & Spirits Tour, a shuttle experience that lets you sample the best of the region’s wine, beer, and spirits without the hassle of driving. The tour includes a stop at Dark Island, providing a perfect opportunity to unwind, savor, and take home your favorite finds.
Dark Island Spirits Distillery in Alexandria Bay, NY, is a must-visit in the 1000 Islands. This family-owned craft distillery produces small-batch spirits using over 90% New York-grown fruit and grains. Enjoy tasting flights, handcrafted cocktails, house-brewed beer, and slushies in a welcoming indoor-outdoor space where you're encouraged to bring your food. The distillery offers onsite tours that showcase its grain-to-glass process and regularly participates in local events, including the Friday Farmers' Market at Swan Bay Resort. The onsite partner with Swan Bay for a Wine & Spirits Tour shuttle, making access even easier for guests.