Crested Butte rum makers work to ‘create long-lasting change and to be a force for good’

By The Thirst Team

As if it’s not difficult enough trying to maintain a business during a pandemic, Montanya Distillers has taken on the threat of plastic pollution as well.

The Crested Butte rum distillery has long sought to be earth-friendly since launching in 2008, and it’s now considered Plastic Neutral.

“We love rum; however, we love our planet and community even more,” said Karen Hoskin, Montanya’s founder and owner. “We’ve been on a mission to eliminate single-use plastic from our packaging, our rum education events, and our tasting room. rePurpose Global is the perfect partner to help us go the final mile.”

The group, rePurpose Global, is a “global coalition of purposeful people and companies dedicated to empowering innovators on the frontlines of reducing waste, reviving lives, and restoring nature's balance.”

With the help of rePurpose Global, Montanya Distillers plans to reduce its use of virgin plastics in its manufacturing and delivery process.

The distillery launched in the tiny town of Silverton in the San Juan Mountains back in 2008 when Colorado’s craft spirits options were limited. In 2011, Montanya moved to downtown Crested Butte and has expanded its offerings, both in terms of flavors and distribution. Located at 212 Elk Ave., visitors will find a tasting room, distillery and restaurant offering seasonal small plates. Entertainment includes live music and watching the impressive, high-speed mixologists do their thing. During non-COVID times, the team behind the bar gets a cardio workout on weekends.

As a Certified B Corporation, Montanya also meets social and environmental performance standards.

With distribution in 44 states and seven countries, “the company is poised for continued growth,” according to a press release. “In 2019, the company became the first distillery to receive investment from the Focus on Female Founders Venture Fund at Constellation Brands. These funds will go straight into the business to help us expand distribution and continue to be a company that acts as a force for good.”

Montanya’s rums include Platino Light, Oro Dark, and a longer-aged, limited-edition rum named Exclusiva. The spirits have received 18 Gold and Silver medals in international competitions, and the company was named the Craft Distillery of the Year by the American Distilling Institute.

**Karen Hoskin, Montanya Distillers’ Co-Founder, Co-Owner and CEO**

“Our mission has always been to offer the highest quality product while creating a deep, positive impact on the world,” Hoskin said. “We truly believe in the power of business to create long-lasting change and to be a force for good.”