THE STORY: Rhode Island Spirits LLC co-owners Kara Larson and Cathy Plourde are doing more than just bringing their love of alcohol to the masses; they are local trendsetters. The Pawtucket-based brewery is one of only a few fully women-owned distilleries in the country and produces the only LGBTQ-owned spirits brand in New England – Rhodium.
› Rhode Island Spirits has produced more than 17,000 bottles of Rhodium-brand spirits, which are available in stores and restaurants in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
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› Larson and Plourde mainly operate the brewery, with six to eight people helping with production and packaging.
› Rhodium spirits are naturally gluten-free, organic and vegan, and almost all of the line is certified kosher.
› Rhodium Forager’s Gin features wild elderberry, red clover, rose hip and autumn berry, all locally foraged. Rhode Island Red Vodka is flavored with cranberries from local family bogs, plus tart cherry and herbal ingredients.
COVID-AFFECTED: Rhode Island Spirits has had to focus on manufacturing and distribution since the COVID-19 pandemic forced the company’s tasting room to close – 70% of the company’s revenue was derived from private events, tours and tastings in 2019. The company is trying to maximize business by distributing to retail stores, including starting to distribute in Massachusetts.
