Stone Groove Stillhouse Brings Music-Infused Whiskey to Anaheim

Discovering Stone Groove Stillhouse: Where Music Meets Craft Spirits

In an exciting development for craft spirit enthusiasts, Jeff and Christa Duggan, known for their acclaimed Portola Coffee venture, have entered the distillery scene with their latest concept: Stone Groove Stillhouse. Located in Anaheim, this innovative establishment combines a distillery, bar, and restaurant, showcasing a unique approach—infusing the power of music into the distillation process to enhance the flavor of their spirits. With a focus on quality and creativity, Stone Groove promises an unforgettable experience rooted in a symphony of sounds and tastes.

The Unique Concept of Musical Distillation

At the heart of Stone Groove Stillhouse is the fascinating idea of harnessing different musical genres to influence the aging process of their spirits. According to Jeff Duggan, who studied chemistry and has a background in music, the flavors and aromas of whiskey are extracted from the wooden barrels during aging. By subjecting these barrels to sound vibrations, the Duggans believe they can enhance the characteristics of their spirits. They currently utilize playlists of jazz fusion, classic rock, country, and blues music that fill the air during the aging process, creating an astonishing emotional connection between the drink and its musical backdrop.

A Culinary Delight

Stone Groove Stillhouse is not just about craft spirits; it also features a 50-seat restaurant led by Executive Chef Jessica Luevano, a talent formerly at Disneyland’s Club 33. The menu offers tantalizing options like the King Oysters Al Pastor—seasoned mushrooms atop pineapple squares—and the Honey Miso Shrimp, large plump shrimp garnished with crushed almonds. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with expertly crafted cocktails, designed by Bar Director Matt Fitzgerald, who combines global experience and creativity to elevate the dining experience. This partnership between food and drink ensures that patrons savor complementary flavors that entice the palate.

Crafting Signature Spirits

The star attractions at Stone Groove are undoubtedly the handcrafted whiskeys. Jeff Duggan utilizes a Holstein still, imported from Germany, to distill in-house. The spirits are then aged in oak barrels equipped with the Duggan’s patented “Musically Mastered” technology, which introduces vibrations from carefully curated music playlists into the aging process. These innovative methods lead to distinct tasting experiences; whiskey aged to blues music offers unique profiles compared to those aged with country tunes. The meticulous attention to both the art and science of distilling guarantees that each spirit tells a story through flavor.

An Atmosphere of Sound

The ambiance at Stone Groove Stillhouse is as engaging as its menu. The design incorporates musical themes throughout, with a striking copper still visible behind glass, alongside vintage music memorabilia like reel-to-reel tape recorders and record players. The venue features BYOV (Bring Your Own Vinyl) nights, allowing guests to share their favorite records, further highlighting the mission of blending music with gastronomy. This interactive environment creates an inviting space where guests can immerse themselves in a unique multisensory experience.

Unforgettable Offerings

For those ready to embark on their Stone Groove journey, sampling a flight of SG whiskeys is a must. Recent standout selections include the smooth Blues Bourbon and the texture-rich Country Bourbon. In celebration of culinary creativity, the menu pays homage to National Cheeseburger Day with a mouthwatering offering known simply as "The Burger," accompanied by Country Bourbon Glazed Carrots that bring seasonal flavors together beautifully. Each pairing is delicately crafted to complement both the drink and the dish, reaffirming the establishment’s commitment to quality and innovation.

Conclusion: A New Chapter in Craft Spirits

In a world where craft spirits continue to evolve, Stone Groove Stillhouse emerges as a pioneering concept that blends the boundaries of music and distilling. Jeff and Christa Duggan’s enthusiasm for both artistry and science is evident in every aspect, from the thoughtful food and drink pairings to the dynamic musical influences. As they build on their success with Portola Coffee, Stone Groove promises to be a beacon for those seeking a truly memorable dining experience, proving that good vibrations can indeed elevate the craft spirit experience to new heights. Whether you’re a whiskey connoisseur or a food enthusiast, this innovative establishment is sure to leave an indelible mark on your culinary journey.