Sipping local: axe and the oak
Located inside the iconic Ivywild School complex, Axe and the Oak Whiskey House has become one of the defining craft whiskey destinations in Colorado Springs. What began as a small hometown distillery founded by a group of lifelong friends has evolved into an award-winning brand known for its handcrafted Colorado whiskey, live music, atmosphere, and community-centered approach to hospitality. Established in 2013, Axe and the Oak quickly gained attention for its Colorado Mountain Bourbon Whiskey, earning silver medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the North American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition, and the Denver International Spirits Competition. Since then, the distillery has reportedly earned more than 100 awards internationally, helping cement its reputation as the city’s premier whiskey maker.
The Whiskey House itself opened at Ivywild in 2016 and instantly became a staple of the local cocktail and nightlife scene. Situated inside the repurposed historic school building alongside other beloved Colorado Springs businesses, the venue blends rustic whiskey culture with the creative energy of the Ivywild marketplace. Guests will find handcrafted seasonal cocktails (made exclusively with Axe and the Oak spirits), including house-made infusions, fresh juices, hand-carved ice, and one of the most talked-about Old Fashioneds in town. The atmosphere is intentionally designed around conversation and community, with no televisions, regular live music performances, cozy fireside seating, and an emphasis on slowing down and connecting with others.
Beyond whiskey, the venue functions as a full social experience. The Whiskey House regularly hosts bluegrass bands, jazz groups, Latin fusion acts, and singer-songwriters, giving the space a warm, intimate energy throughout the week and making it a destination where guests can spend an entire evening enjoying drinks, food, music, and the historic charm of the building itself.
As for the bourbon itself, Axe and the Oak has developed a strong loyal following among Colorado whiskey enthusiasts for all the right reasons! Mainely, their focus on locally sourced grains, Rocky Mountain water, and carefully blended small-batch spirits. Their lineup includes Colorado Mountain Bourbon Whiskey, Incline Rye Whiskey, Citra Gin, and limited cask strength releases. Each bottle reflects the founders’ passion for music and storytelling, with even the labels featuring references to the music the team listened to during production. The company’s branding revolves around the idea that whiskey is “made to be shared,” a philosophy that has helped turn the Whiskey House into far more than a bar, it has become a genuine Colorado Springs gathering place.
