Ursa Major Distilling

The feel

A small, family-run distillery on the Parks Highway near Ester, making spirits since 2012 in one of the first distilleries in Alaska. The head distiller makes the stills by hand. The range covers small batch AKavit, rum, vodka, gin and barrel aged rum, plus canned cocktails.

The tasting room features local artists and gift merchandise. It is open year-round, handicap accessible, and pets are allowed. Tours and tastings are by reservation, and a tour ends with a tasting of all their offerings.

What to expect

Setting

Tasting room at 2922 Parks Hwy, with local art and gift merchandise. Handicap accessible.

Hours

Tue-Fri 4-9pm, Sat 3-9pm, Sun 4-8pm, closed Monday.

Food and drink

Small batch AKavit, rum, vodka, gin and barrel aged rum, plus canned cocktails.

Music and events

Distillery tours and spirits tastings are by reservation. Tours are small-group and led by the owner, about 30 minutes, and end with a tasting of all their offerings and a souvenir shot glass.

Parking

Motorcoach parking available.

Dogs

Pets allowed.

Season and access

Open year-round.

Mingo says

Book a tour if you want to meet the owner and taste the whole range. Tour guests take home a shot glass.

Before you go

• Register for a tour on the distillery website, or call (907) 347-8951.
• Bring a card or cash: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover and cash are accepted.
• Get there an hour early for a tour, since it runs ahead of opening.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.