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Karen Hoskin can be described as a serial entrepreneur, having started a number of businesses over the years.  She is perhaps best known for Montanya Distillers, however, which produces craft rum right here in Crested Butte.  The tasting room, located in the heart of Crested Butte across the street from the post office, has become one of Crested Butte's go-to visits for small plates and a delicious rum cocktail.  In this podcast episode, Karen and I discussed her business endeavors, the process of making rum in the Colorado mountains, and making the move from Silverton, where Montanya's originally started.  We also discussed collaboration between distillers, wine makers, and others, which is quite similar to what's going on in the craft beer industry (see episode 10- Dave Nornes of Irwin Brewing). On top of that, Karen is an advocate for her employees, many of whom have been able to purchase property locally, and have gone on to start their own businesses.  She's also making Montanya as green as it can be- minimizing waste wherever possible.  And since that isn't enough on her plate, so also started Zoetica, which aims to reduce waste by selling kits with life's daily essentials.

Learn more:

Montanya Rum

Montanya Facebook Page

Zoetica