Inside Olympia Artesian Vodka: Made in Tumwater, Washington
Olympia Artesian Vodka is a locally owned Washington vodka crafted and bottled by Olympia Distilling Co. in Tumwater, Washington. Its distinctive character comes from a combination of hands-on local production, a corn base and natural artesian water connected to one of the Pacific Northwest’s most recognizable beverage traditions.
Crafted and Bottled in Tumwater, Washington
Olympia Distilling Co. operates from an approximately 8,000-square-foot distillery in Tumwater, near the historic Olympia Brewery. This is where Olympia Artesian Vodka is produced, bottled, packaged and prepared for distribution.
Owners and distillers Lesa Givens and Ray Watson remain personally involved throughout the business. Their work extends from distilling, production and equipment operation to bottling, sales, retailer relationships and community events.
Olympia Vodka is not simply associated with Washington through its name. It is made here by local people operating a working Washington distillery.
Finished With Natural Tumwater Artesian Water
Water has been central to the Olympia story since the Olympia Brewing Company was founded in Tumwater in 1896. Today, Olympia Artesian Vodka continues that connection by using natural water drawn from a historic Tumwater artesian well that once supplied the Olympia Brewery.
The water is transported approximately three miles across Tumwater to Olympia Distilling Co. and used to finish the vodka. Its naturally occurring mineral character contributes to Olympia Vodka’s soft mouthfeel and remarkably smooth finish.
Because finished vodka is largely water, its quality can have a meaningful effect on the drinking experience. For Olympia Artesian Vodka, “It’s the Water®” describes more than a famous expression—it identifies an essential ingredient and an authentic connection to place.
Made From Corn and Naturally Gluten-Free
Olympia Artesian Vodka is made from corn and is naturally gluten-free. The original vodka is bottled at 80 proof, or 40% alcohol by volume.
It has a clean, smooth and approachable character that works equally well in classic cocktails, a simple vodka soda or other mixed drinks where the quality of the base spirit matters.
Olympia Distilling Co. also produces Olympia Orange Vodka, a 60-proof flavored vodka made with real oranges and no artificial flavors or colors.
Made by Local Owners and Distillers
Olympia Distilling Co. is locally owned and operated by Lesa Givens and Ray Watson.
Ray helped establish the original distillery in 2011 and brings extensive experience in distilling, refrigeration, process controls, sanitary welding and equipment design. He oversees much of the company’s distilling and production work.
Lesa joined Ray in building the company while completing a nearly 30-year career in the insurance industry. Today, she works throughout the operation, including distilling, production, bottling, sales, marketing, deliveries and retailer relationships.
Together, they are building the next chapter of the Olympia name through a genuinely local and hands-on Washington company.
An Award-Winning Washington Vodka
Olympia Artesian Vodka has received recognition from multiple respected spirits competitions, including the Denver International Spirits Competition, Los Angeles Invitational Wine & Spirits Challenge, SIP Awards and Bartender Spirits Awards.
Independent media outlets have also featured the vodka’s Tumwater production, artesian water and local distillers. Coverage has included KIRO 7 News, The Olympian, Sip Magazine, Bartenders Business and OLY ARTS.
Where to Find Olympia Artesian Vodka
Olympia Artesian Vodka is available through retailers, restaurants and bars across Washington, Oregon and Montana.
In Washington, customers can find it at participating Safeway, Albertsons, Grocery Outlet, Total Wine & More and BevMo! locations, as well as many independent retailers. Availability varies by location, so customers should contact the store before making a special trip.
Bottles may also be purchased directly from the Olympia Distilling Co. tasting room at 2442 Mottman Road SW in Tumwater. Depending on the laws of the customer’s state, shipping may also be available. Customers can use the Contact Us page to ask about current availability and shipping options.
A Vodka With a Genuine Sense of Place
What makes Olympia Artesian Vodka a Washington-made vodka is not one isolated claim. It is the combination of local ownership, hands-on distilling and bottling in Tumwater, natural artesian water and a commitment to building the Olympia name’s future in the community where its story began.
Olympia is home. Tumwater is our source. Drink Local. Drink Olympia.
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