Review preview: Rackhouse Pub

Mark Manger

We just finished up the Colorado Cocktail Project, during which distillers and bartenders from across the state gave lectures, poured samples and, ultimately, created the ultimate Colorado Cocktail: the Tree Line, concocted by the Avenue Grill's Marnie Ward, who bested nine other mixologists with her drink made with Leopold Bros. spirits and Colorado cherries.

The Colorado Cocktail Project's success was a testament to the explosive interest in craft liquor and cocktails in this state, and one of the distillers that's made a major impact on the scene is Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey, a producer that moved into the old Heavenly Daze brewery a couple of years ago. Even though Stranahan's has since been sold, the distillery operations are still in the back of the building, while the front holds Rackhouse Pub.

The eatery channels a whiskey storage room in concept, decor and even its hearty American fare.

I headed to Rackhouse for this week's review, saddling up at the bar to drink whiskey and selections from the restaurant's formidable lineup of local craft beer. And I supplemented my drinks with snacks, stylish pub food and the classic bar fare that Rackhouse has attempted to elevate to a finer level.

How was the food? Find out tomorrow when the review is posted here.