No 209

Distillery No. 209 is a renowned spirits producer with roots tracing back to an 1882 operation in the Napa Valley, gaining its name from being the 209th distillery licensed in the United States. It was reborn in the early 2000s and is now best known for its exceptionally refined gin, crafted in a unique copper pot still on Pier 50 in San Francisco. The story of Distillery No. 209 is a fascinating tale of heritage and modernity, bridging more than a century of American distilling history. The original distillery operated in Napa Valley in the late 19th century, a period when the United States alcohol industry was vibrant before the era of Prohibition temporarily curtailed operations nationwide. The number "209" is not merely a brand name but a historical identifier, signifying its place in the federal licensing records of the time. The modern iteration of the distillery was established in 2005 after the discovery of the original distillery building, then a disused barn, inspired an entrepreneur to revive the long-forgotten name and brand. It is owned by the Rudd family, who are also known for the Rudd Oakville Estate Winery.