Triple Divide Spirits

If the aptly named Triple Divide Peak in Glacier National Park is the hydrological apex of North America, one of only a few places on earth where water flows into three oceans, then it stands to reason that Triple Divide Spirits in Helena, Montana may well aspire to stand atop the mixological one. Whether or not they achieve this lofty summit is for each of us to determine on our own, but what can be certain is that their Front Street tasting room pours a crisp, clean, distinctly flavored vodka and a number of tasty cocktails.

Located in downtown Helena's famous Last Chance Gulch, the space is long and dimly lit, a cross between speakeasy and martini bar. There is a martini on the menu, along with several other unique drinks. Operations manager Jen walked me through it, noting the Montana Jackass, a twist on the popular Moscow Mule theme and their biggest seller. After sampling the vodka itself, which finished light with a hint of fruit, I tried the signature 790, an extremely sweet mix of pomegranate juice, simple syrup, and freshly squeezed lemon. In barman Will's words, "it overwhelms the vodka, but it tastes good."

Having only recently opened their doors this past November, Jen says that while they are being carried in a number of area retailers and taverns their current focus is on their tasting room clientele. This was obvious in the inviting and personal manner of the two young mixologists behind the bar, who greeted and thanked every customer that passed, many by name, while crafting cocktails with an ample amount of concern for the resultant product.

"Life is too short for bad drinks," Will says to his partner. "If you hear someone complain about a drink, take it from them, and I'll make another."

Life is also too short for empty drinks, so I asked for the 5th of December. Based on classic Prohibition-era flavors, this ideal summer cocktail is made of vodka, elderflower syrup, fresh lime, and soda water over ice. It was tart, with a subtle but not non-existent flavor.
  

Owned and operated by Helena attorney (and Hel'z Bellez roller derby girl) Karen Powell and her distiller husband JP Crowley, Triple Divide Spirits currently produces a vodka, with a gin slated to launch in the spring. They are located at 790 Front Street in Helena, Montana and their tasting room is open Wednesday through Saturday from 4-8pm.

To learn more visit their Facebook page here.