The Early Word on Falls Church Distillers

Falls Church Distillers unveiled its new facility on July 8, complete with both bourbon and art for sale.

The 3,400-square-foot operation at 442 S. Washington Street, from Falls Church resident Michael Paluzzi, also makes traditional gin, citrus-infused gin, and pineapple-flavored gin, as well as regular and pepper vodka.

Also on tap: local beers and a selection of Italian wines, currently paired with small plates like antipasti, bruschetta, panini sandwiches, and honey mascarpone fig gelato. Retail prices range from $29.99 for the vodka to $49.99 for the Church Bourbon Whiskey. A full complement of three-ounces of tastings, with three drink options for each flavor, is $25.

Read on to hear what the public is saying, just a few weeks in:

The Tour Time News: Facebook user Jamie Kolbe says “the atmosphere is unique and inviting. The tour was awesome! The owner and staff were all very knowledgeable ... I highly recommend a visit.” Instagram user @emmahurley says to “definitely check out #fallschurchdistillers if you're in the D.C. area. Cool space and awesome tour by the owner. #chemistryiscool.” [Facebook, Instagram]

The One-Stop Shop News: Facebook user Sally Cole “enjoyed a bourbon tasting and a couple of beers while admiring some local art and another couple's meal!” Facebook user Diane Malcom says “Food was good, the tour was very informative ... the staff along with Michael were very nice too!” [Facebook]

The Destination-Worthy News: Instagram user @linzercookie4 “dragged myself out of my sick bed for opening weekend.” Facebook user Tiffany Cureau says “Michael, the owner, was extremely hospitable and the staff is very friendly and knowledgeable ... I predict it's going to be an awesome gathering place for everyone! Great fun, spirits, staff and environment!” [Instagram, Facebook]

The First Bites and Booze News: Facebook user Tim Watson tried out their “food with Italian flair ... I had the apple and mozzarella panini and some gelato, which also were good.” Yelper Danny P. says “The 'New Fashioned' was pretty good, but the gin cocktail was the star of the show. Definitely get that if you go.” [Facebook, Yelp]

The Simulated Road Trip News: Yelper John S. says “All in all, it is a great way to spend a weekend afternoon, almost like going to a distillery or winery in the countryside to sample drinks and snack on finger food without leaving Falls Church.” [Yelp]

The Bourbon News: Yelper Megan C. says “the bourbon was so good we bought a bottle to take home — and then returned the following week to buy two more as gifts!” Yelper John S. says “for the time being they have to use a bourbon from southern Virginia until their own blend can age, and it will be fun to see how their bourbon tastes in a few years time.” [Yelp]