Shrub Steppe Smokehouse Brewery
Shrub Steppe Defined:
- “Shrub” refers to the most abundant plant species that grows in this ecosystem.
- “Steppe” is a Russian word that means a vast treeless plain.
Shrub steppe is a type of natural grassland with a discontinuous overstory layer of shrubs such as low lying sagebrush; distinguishable by elevation, climate, and other unique characteristics. Prior to urban development, shrub steppe historically dominated the landscape in eastern Washington. When fortunate enough to find an undisturbed section of these perennial grasses, sagebrush, and rimrock outcrops, a shrub steppe will overwhelm you with its sweeping vistas and stark beauty.
Author: Caroline Porsiel
Caroline Porsiel is a master distiller and liqueurist based in East Ellijay, Georgia. She founded House of Applejay, a fine spirits and liqueur distillery, in 2022 with her mother, Sabine, crafting award-winning products like Applejay from Ellijay, Mt. Frozen Knob Vodka, and Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur. The distillery won a 2024 Best of Georgia Award and a 2025 Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur. As a founding member of the AMBRU Campaign, launched in 2020, Porsiel advocates for the global recognition of American Brandy and Rum. She continues to drive innovation in the craft spirits industry from her active distillery in the heart of Georgia’s apple country.
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