The "Vodka" is technically more like white whiskey, but I'm not complaining. It's crazy delicious. Yeah, I said it... it tastes GOOD! Usually, V is brewed to taste like nothing, but MWS distills theirs to this gorgeous minerally finish that makes it taste like super-expensive water from somewhere on top of an Alp. And it makes you thirsty, and you want more, and then you're hammered. Neat, barely chilled is the best way to experience this bliss. Their infused Vodka (honey vanilla bean) tasted like candy corn to me, which was good, but not my favorite - plus vanilla beans don't come from Ohio, which, invalidates the "philosophy" of this otherwise really well thought-out clever mission. The aged whiskey has been okay, but they need to keep it in the barrel a little longer, it tasted kind of young, but yummy. Ohio-made, all of it, sourced here, distilled here, bottled here, named after here, sporting a big buckeye tree on the bottle. (They were working on getting the bottles blown in Ohio, last I checked, which would also be awesome, since they now come from Italy). It's the best-made premium spirit I've bought in a while, and worth every penny. The guys who run this shindig are amazing men, and if you can stop in for a tour of the place, do. You'll fall in love. read more

Awesome people, cool location, excellent idea, flawless execution, 100% local and exceedingly well priced. Did I mention they sell the best vodka I've ever had in my life? It actually has flavor, and doesn't play on gimmicks of super filtration. Instead they use good ingredients and go for quality over quantity. I'm buying their vodka for half the people I know this Christmas. It is just that good. Get some now! read more

I was a fan of the idea microdistillers long before I set foot in their distillery or tasted their product, and with every step of the way, I've found more and more to love about MWS and their product Oyo (pronounced Oh-why-oh). Since then I've tasted and purchased their wonderful spirit distilled from Ohio red winter wheat no more than 4 blocks from my house and purchased at the small shop located at the distillery. The owners Brady and Ryan care about putting out a distinctive product that showcases the best Ohio has to offer. The product, Oyo is some of the best vodka that I've ever tasted and has lots of character compared to most vodkas I've tried. You can also tour the distillery (call ahead, public tours are generally on Wednesday), meet Brady and Ryan and discover for yourself what it takes to make this awesome spirit. I'm eagerly looking forward to their next project. Bravo and 5 stars. read more

Overrated. Is OYO bad? No. Is it great? No. Its fine. It does have the novelty factor of being distilled in the Short North, which is cool, but its product is just fine at best. The Vodka is decent, but its far from Vodka. It has far to much flavor on its own to be considered "Vodka." I'm not saying it tastes bad, its just not vodka. The Whiskey, however is truely Mediocre. I waited in line to buy the third release when it became available and it really lacked in depth and flavor. Again, it didn't have a bad flavor, it just didn't have much of it at all. Admitedly, I've never tried a subsquent release. The Vanilla honey Vodka was good, though its not something I'd drink on its own and would be better as a mixer. The Stonefruit may be great, but I've never actually tried it. Personally Watershed is my go-to Columbus Vodka and Gin. read more

Middle West Spirits is run by some really great people who are trying to do some really great things. Even if they never make another batch of booze they have positively affected our state and our community by getting some laws relaxed, allowing for new business to be created. Already, other distilleries around Ohio are popping up and producing money for our economy simply because they are able to open thanks to Middle West. These gents are using Ohio grain and Ohio honey, further influencing and helping the Ohio economy. Now besides all the good they are doing, the do make one hell of a product. I used to say that if I was to open a bar, vodka would NOT be in it. Vodka is just a pointless product with no intrinsic value or flavor. Now, I am reformed. If I was to open a bar, the ONLY vodka I would sell would be OYO Vodka. I love their product! It is the first and only vodka that I can drink neat. Flavorful and robust, yet mixable. If you want your classic clear flavorless spirit, you can keep it. If you want to get drunk just to get drunk, go buy your Grey Goose and Everclear. But if you want to enjoy the art of imbibing like wine connoisseurs and scotch aficionados, you need to give their product a try. I think my personal favorite in their line is the OYO Honey Vanilla Bean Vodka. For the most part, I hate flavored Vodkas even more than regular ones, but OYO Honey Vanilla Bean is different. You still have the subtlety of the OYO Vodka yet a smooth, pronounced Honey flavor is detectable, followed by a beautiful oily vanilla that coats the throat. Mmm, delicious. All in all, this is the type of company that you want in your city! Putting money into the local and state economies while making a superior and unique product that is bound to grow in popularity. read more

Went in for a tasting. Presenter was very knowledgeable and friendly. The building was beautiful and they recently opened a restaurant. Off the beaten path but worth a stop. Beautiful bottles and tasty product read more

Came to this place on a whim and was blown away. This is the kind of place that pays attention to detail and it makes all the difference. My husband had the cheesy brisket crunch and it was perfectly balanced and seasoned. I had the radiatori pasta with some kind of meat and cream sauce and it was well seasoned with a mix of creamy, salty, savory and comforting. The cocktails we creative and had unique flavors of the made on site spirits. Our order took a while so the bar manager gave us a quick tour of the distillery and a discount. I appreciate that they took action to prevent a problem rather than scramble afterwards. It does get busy so make a reservation, we didn't have one but we're quickly seated at the bar. Lastly the aesthetic is beautiful read more

Dude. they make the best vodka I have ever had. normally vodka makes me gag. it tastes like medicine to me. or like college. if you closed your eyes and sipped some of middlewest's OYO vodka, you might think it was some new-fangled whisky variety. it has a flavor, unlike most vodkas for which quality is judged by smoothness and lack of flavor. on top of the awesomeness of the product itself, the gents who run this place are fantastic. I've experienced tours of the distillery from both the businessman and his master distiller partner, and they are both incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about alcohol, business, and the distilling process. also, SCIENCE!!! they talk about the science behind it!!! additionally, they're advocates for local products and changing arbitrary, antiquated alcohol policy in Ohio. Did I mention that their vodka is made from using almost 100% Ohio products? how awesome is that? they've recently come out with a honey-vanilla infused vodka, which is like sweet sweet candy. they're also working on a whisky, which is also pretty tasty, but not as life-changing as their vodka. read more

I'd never tried Middle West Spirits' wares until I was invited on a private tour for a friend's birthday. I'd highly recommend the tour itself. It's an interesting discussion of the company's origins, their distillation process and a history of distilled alcohol. It takes about an hour, and ends with a tasting. Our tasting included all three of Middle West's products, as well as a small sample of Grey Goose for comparison. Middle West's OYO vodka redefined what vodka tastes like for me. Instead of a mouth-burning, rubbing alcohol flavor, OYO has a light grain flavor and warms your chest, reminding you why it's the Russians' favorite way to keep warm in the winter. Compared side-by-side with the Grey Goose, there really was no contest. The honey-vanilla infused vodka is equally smooth, ending in a delightful aftertaste of Ugandan vanilla bean. I used to think I didn't like whiskey, but then I met Middle West's whiskey. It's so smooth, with none of that stuck-in-your-throat, coughing, tastes-like-a-firepit flavor. Just easy, woody spiciness with a pleasant afterburn. This stuff tastes like fall. It's hard to get, too. Follow Middle West on facebook to get updates about when they are releasing a batch, and try to put some on reserve as quickly as you can. I got three bottles from the last batch, and it sold out in something like two hours. Not only do I love their products, but I love that Middle West operates in the Short North in Columbus, uses locally-sourced ingredients and materials, and works hard to keep Ohio in everything that they do. I love having bragworthy places in my town, and Middle West is definitely on the list. read more

Went here on a Groupon. Got there late because the local traffic and traffic lights are a nightmare at 6:00pm on a Friday. Leave plenty of time! The owners are really passionate about spirits. They live and breathe for the product, not the profits. They hope for profits, but the product is more important. At least to them, but probably not their accountant! Very small place, cramped but the tour (really a talk) was very nice. They could go into much more detail than most would understand but kept it high level so even a non-drinker like me could grasp most of the details. The products they have reflect their passion. Tasty, even to me. Way too strong for me, but most people tolerate the alcohol better than I do! I bought a bottle of their honey vanilla bean. We drove over 100 miles for this tour/tasting. It was worth the drive. Recommended. read more

Not the best quality product for the pricepoint, in comparison to similar products. Overall: C- read more

Okay so I dined here this past Friday evening for my cousins birthday dinner. First of all, the reservation was set for 8:30 for a 10 top, we weren't seated until nearly 9:00 thank god we told the birthday girl to come late. I understand that it was packed and busy, so I knew the drinks and food would be a while which is not a big deal. I order the "Mind F!ck" cocktail and I LOVED it in fact I ordered 2. The reason I truly give the place only 3 stars, is due to the quality of service. I sensed that our server was overwhelmed, and I'm not sure if she forgot to put my order of food in or if it was a kitchen mistake but I didn't even get my food until 15 mins after everyone had theirs and were basically done eating. By the time I got my food, I was 2 cocktails deep I wasn't even that hungry for my food at that point BUT the few bites that I did have of the sesame dumplings were great, very unique flavor. Overall, I would like to come back and hopefully experience better service but I don't recommend having large parties here. read more

Not only do the spirits offer interesting flavors with a great story, but the overall presentation and tour was really informative and entertaining. The head-to-head taste challenge was "eye opening" into the world of vodka. I would highly recommend the tour and the spirits...they also have a really clever at-home barreling concept launching right now. You can barrel-age your own cocktails...and it's a really cute gift! read more

The guys who run this place are friendly and know how to make a good vodka!! Recently I couldn't find a bottle of their new stone fruit vodka and I know it isn't their fault, but they were very welcoming when I came into their shop/distillery to pick up a bottle. I am very glad that I picked it up because that vodka lead to a very good night and I am sure more great nights to come! read more

I was fortunate to get to help be a part of the bottling last December and witness Middle West Spirits operations first hand. MWS are great members of the community who make an artisanal product . I recommend OYO mixed with the neighbor's (Brothers Drake Meadery) Apple Pie wine over ice for an Ohio Apple Pie cocktail. The vanilla bean OYO goes great with ginger ale. read more

I will start this review by saying that the tour was very nice and quite informative. Despite the extreme temperatures we experienced, our group really enjoyed the information that was provided. The poor customer service did not start until the tour was over and we were to receive our cocktail that came with the tour. Our personal group had 6 people in it including myself. We wanted to sit at a booth but were told only 5 people could sit there and no exceptions. We advised the waiter that we were ok with sitting close because we were just getting drinks and appetizers. They refused to let us sit in the booth. After much deliberation with the hostess, we were told we could sit at the community table. It was happy hour so we planned on each ordering an appetizer. We were then told that we could only order 2 appetizers because of our party of 6. We asked to speak with a manager because what difference would it make if we were 6 separate individuals coming for happy hour? Would they limit the amount of appetizers we could order? What if I wanted to try every appetizer on the menu? Would they tell me no? I have never dined at a restaurant where they limit the amount of food you can order. I am a Columbus, OH native and try to support all things Ohio. I was super proud to bring my uncle from California to this distillery only to be disappointed in the service we receive. Quite frankly, I'm embarrassed! I will NOT be returning to Middle West spirits or purchasing the OYO liquor. If you visit, please be prepare for several stipulations and rules that will possibly ruin your experience. read more

This is not about the actual location, as much as their product. Their vodka, especially their honey vanilla vodka, is out of this world. All their spirits are made in Ohio, right there in Columbus, and I think that is really cool. They seem to be constantly expanding their product line, and are now doing several whiskies. I've had their bourbon, which isn't bad (though not my favorite), but I love what they are doing and I love, love, love that honey vanilla vodka. It's so lovely it's almost a dessert. Cheers! read more

These guys are serious about their booze. The result is an local alternative to the mass market stuff, that actually tastes better. All local ingredients puts a big Ohio stamp on this stuff. The space is currently only set up for tours with a small store space, but they are working on a big expansion. read more

Our Book Club planned a night to learn about the local distillery, Middle West Spirits. What a night! Not only were we entertained by the guys who clearly LOVE what they do, we learned about what makes a good spirit. Most of us bought bottles and are looking forward to educating our friends. Worth the time and a must see when in town! read more

My wife and I took a trip to Columbus from Philly to visit my friend and celebrate his daughters first birthday. We stopped outside of Pittsburgh to stay the night and break up the drive. Over the evening we were looking here for something to do in Columbus and my wife stumbled across this terrific craft distillery. We are typically whiskey drinkers so this place was a natural stop for us but we were super surprised by their Honey Vanilla infused vodka. So much so that we are planning to make a stop back and pickup some of the Stone Fruit infused before we return to Philadelphia. We're also excited about the Wheat whiskey and Bourbon that we picked up. Perhaps we'll get into those later this evening with our friends... read more

Great place, well informed staff wonderful selection of products from alcohol to glasswares, shirts, hoodies, etc..

Took a tour and tasting. Our guide LeeAnn, was very knowledgeable and made the tour really fun. The facility is very modern and clean. Their product is first rate and I couldn't resist taking home a bottle of their Dark Pumpernickel Rye whiskey. Look for their Groupon, great deal and a great distillery. read more

We had the great good fortune to sample the new Service Bar at MWS before their public opening. The food, the drinks and the service were all top notch. We had the whole chicken entree, which was served in a very interesting fashion, with different flavors - the perfect trifecta of succulent, crispy and gentle heat. Very innovative. The bar staff created perfectly balanced libations with their superb spirits. A wonderful experience! We will definitely be returning and will spread the word. read more

I recently visited Middle West Spirits for a tour of their facility after having a buddy that attended OSU introduce me to their products some time ago. However, only saying that Middle West makes great products would be understating their importance in the Columbus community. Not only do they make great products using predominately local products, they also have collaborated with other great local businesses such as Jeni's and are solidifying themselves as a staple in the community and embody many of the qualities that it takes to make a small business successful. As one writer indicated the owners seem very passionate and that carries over in the quality of their products and is also reflected by their involvement in the community with their participation in various local events. It says a lot to me when you can observe the owners doing grunt work with the rest of their employees in the distillery when showing up for a tour. I'm very excited for what the future holds for Middle West and for the expansion of their distillery that is happening in the near future! I am also excited for the release of a new wheat based whiskey being released in November that I had the opportunity to try during the tour. It was quite delicious and warmed my belly with its aged four years goodness. So if you are in the Short North area of Columbus and would like to learn more about the manufacture of quality spirits (reservations would be recommended for the tours) or would just like to pick up a quality vodka or whiskey, Middle West Spirits is highly recommended. read more

Perhaps something died in the batch of OYO Vodka I sampled..... "fermented gym socks"

I've been on this tour 3 (maybe 4) times now and it's still fascinating. This distillery produces an incredibly high quality product across the board and does it without cutting any corners! They are also great guys who genuinely enjoy crafting something special, and that makes all the difference. read more

I am so glad I stopped by for a tour. I am not a fan of flavored vodka but after tasting their Stone Fruit I am now! The rye is the best though. read more

So, when you are excited about something to the point of waking up in the middle of the night with thoughts of how to accomplish this goal from which your excitement stems, you know your onto something!! I am an aspiring micro-distiller in Columbus Ohio and I know spirits. That being said, it was a give in that i would start with Ohio micro-distillers for inspiration. The boys at Middle West Spirits have taken the whole process of "local" very seriously. From their distilling floor you will go on a journey through the process from grain sourcing to labeling to store placement. I highly suggest a tasting tour. Now the products, diverse in their flavor bodies, and smooth on delivery, and sharp on the pallet after. Just amazing. I'm a Bourbon lover and it delivers. With a smooth front and even burn after. I swear it tasted like chewing on an oak toothpick dipped in sweet molasses, MMM!!! Bottled at 46% you may be surprised by its ability to deliver its subtle complexity. The thought of blending fruit infusions into my own spirits may not appeal to me, I have a reserved respect for those that can pull off this tight rope walk between over powering and just plain sugar liquor. The Stone Fruit infused Vodka has all but set the bar new. This is by all means a sweet spirit, but it brings on the aspects of all the real fruit used. From the cherry front, apricot middle to the peachy lingering glow it leaves behind, just delightful.The Vanilla Bean Vodka has set the bar for me on flavored vodkas. just what it says plain and simple, awesome. Their flagship Vodka is exactly not what you may have become familiar and comfortable with, in a great way! This has to be one of the most enjoyable Vodkas available. This spirit will send your taste buds to vodka college. No joking around, it is that complex. Where and industry looks for neutral and flavorless as a standard, micro-distillers are reaching for full body of the ingredients. They have accomplished this and more. I can just let this line of products speak for itself. With all there is to choose from out there its no wonder people are looking to their own community for products to spend their money on in these hard times were ALL feeling. If you find yourself looking for a local spirit, look no further. Thanks for the tour guys had a blast and learned somethings to. Phil we found a bottle of bourbon after Saturdays tasting, was the only one. WOOHOO! read more