From Wall Street to Whiskey

Laws Whiskey House redefines the Denver spirits scene

By Lexi Reich

As the first snowflakes dust the Rockies this season, a different kind of spirit is rising in Denver’s South Broadway neighborhood. Laws Whiskey House, the brainchild of former Wall Street analyst Al Laws, recently unveiled its ambitious new tasting room—a project five years in the making that promises to shake up the Mile High City’s spirits scene.

This isn’t your average distillery expansion. The 4,000-square-foot brutalist structure stands as a testament to Laws’ journey from number-crunching financial analyst to whiskey innovator. “We initially focused on building our wholesale brand without dedicating much time to the hospitality side,” he explains, reflecting on the company’s evolution since its 2009 founding. “As our brand has grown and expanded into multiple states, it made sense to create an experience that truly aligns with our brand standards.”

At the heart of this new space lies the “whiskey church,” a room that elevates the concept of a traditional tasting experience. Massive stained-glass windows bathe the room in ethereal light, while visitors can sit in pews hand-carved by Laws and his stepfather—a detail that speaks volumes about the personal touches infused into this venture.

Laws’ transition from Wall Street to whiskey wasn’t a typical career pivot. With 15 years as a top-ranked equity research analyst under his belt, Laws brought a keen analytical mind to the world of spirits. His background in economics and status as a CFA Charterholder inform a data-driven approach to crafting exceptional whiskey.

But Laws isn’t alone in this venture. His wife, Marianne Laws, serves as secretary and treasurer, bringing her own impressive background to the table. With experience in economic development and investment banking, she handles the financial and administrative functions that keep Laws Whiskey House running smoothly. Rounding out the leadership team is CFO Peyton Mason, another Wall Street alumnus who traded in his analyst’s hat for a role in the whiskey world.

This blend of financial expertise and passion for whiskey is evident in every aspect of the new tasting room. The second-floor cocktail lounge, with its panoramic views of the Rockies, aims to compete with the best bars in Denver. “Our goal is to become one of Denver’s top cocktail bars, offering a premier experience for our guests,” Al Laws says.

But it’s not just about serving drinks. The expanded space allows for a reimagining of the distillery tour experience. “It allows us to create multiple, diverse tour options that cater to different interests and preferences, ensuring a personalized experience for our customers and the public,” Al Laws says.

In an industry often steeped in tradition, Laws Whiskey House is charting its own course. The company’s commitment to using local ingredients and supporting sustainable practices remains unwavering, even as it expands. “Sustainability is core to who we are, so it remains a priority as we begin operations,” Al Laws shares.

As Denver’s drinking scene continues to evolve, Laws Whiskey House is positioning itself not just as a distillery but as a destination. “Just as our brand contributes to the fabric of American whiskey, honoring its rich history, this space adds to the fabric of Denver,” Al Laws says. “It offers something unique that didn’t exist here before—an experience worth seeking out when visiting the city and a special destination for locals who love Laws to witness our growth.”

With its blend of financial savvy, whiskey expertise and a deep commitment to craft and community, Laws Whiskey House is poised to write the next chapter in Denver’s spirited story.

LOCAL GIFT GIVING

Laws Whiskey House Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey, $64.99

Award-winning and handcrafted in Colorado, Laws Whiskey House’s Four Grain Straight Bourbon is a gift that whiskey lovers will treasure. This bourbon features high-quality corn sourced from two local family farms, along with heirloom wheat, barley and rye. The unique, slow-cooking method draws out each grain’s distinct character, while open-air sour mash fermentation adds depth. After aging for more than three years in 53-gallon charred oak barrels, this bourbon reveals a rich, complex flavor shaped by Colorado’s high-altitude climate.

Laws Whiskey House San Luis Valley Straight Rye, $64.99

Awarded Double Gold at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the San Luis Valley Straight Rye is a bold, distinctive whiskey with a deep sense of place. Sourced from rye grown in Colorado’s San Luis Valley—at 7,500 feet above sea level—this heirloom grain has been cultivated since the 1930s. The result is a terroir-driven rye that captures the rugged beauty of its high-altitude origins. Aged for over four years in charred oak barrels, it delivers a unique whiskey experience.