Craft distilleries are the new craft breweries. The craze is taking cities by storm, and craft distilleries are popping up everywhere, offering tours, unique liquors and quirky cocktails. I got my first taste of local craft distillery culture during a late fall visit to Nashville, and just last weekend decided to visit two outside of my Philadelphia hometown — Manatawny Still Works in Pottstown and Bluebird Distilling in Phoenixville. Manatawny means “the place we meet to drink,” so it is a fitting moniker for the distillery located in the northwestern suburbs of Philadelphia. The atmosphere was rustic in the warehouse, with barrels, wood and metal décor touches. Dimly lit, there was a warming vibe on the chilly January evening and a musician playing in the corner. I indulged in two cocktails, my favorite being the still’s version of the Moscow Mule. At Bluebird, the still was custom built in Eislingen, Germany. The tasting room has a bit more of a bar feel, with a back-lit bar display highlighting all the bottles and a chalkboard boasting specialty drinks. As we arrived just a bit before closing, we didn’t have as much time to hang out, though I enjoyed my Easy Livin’ libation — Juniperus Gin, ginger/vanilla simple syrup, lime and ginger ale. Check out and visit the local craft distilleries in your city for a night out on the town with a twist! — Kimberly Krol, editor in chief