Erie County Distilling Companies: Past and Present
Erie County is nearing its 200th birthday – It has been home to near 70 Distilleries.
The first individual to distill spirits and the time when distilling began continues to remain a mystery; however, the history of distilled spirits dates back as far as Circa 2000 BC. While a distilled spirit may seem like a simple and inconsequential part of Erie County's history, it is a staple for many Americans and will always be enjoyed on a summer day–don’t forget the ice.
From left to right: Ancient terracotta pot still circa 450BCE (Pakistan) Reference *4 and Lakeward Stills, located in Buffalo, NY .Reference *3
Erie County currently has 8 open distilleries and 3 that have recently closed, in the past 2 years. These distilling companies: Barn Dog, Black Squirrel and Rustbelt Revival Distilling Company; have likely succumbed to the pressures of the Covid-19 pandemic. Erie County has been home to many distillers in the past. Over the course of 200 years; 58 known historic distilleries have laid their roots here in Erie County.
During the prohibition, spirits were only accessible legally with a prescription from a medical doctor. Prescription for whiskey during Prohibition. Reference *8
The men and the animals worked all day, and the only payment was found flowing from the barrels of pure rye whiskey set up along what was destined to become the banks of the Erie Canal. “Our whiskey then was the pure article, made from rye, without adulteration,” wrote pioneer Buffalonian William Hodge, who remembered the events from when he was a boy. “Along the line of the canal, at convenient distances, was to be found another barrel of whiskey, pure old rye, with part of the head cut out and tin dipper lying by and all were expected to help themselves.” Reference *12
The photo shows only a small portion of the parade of 20,000 women who marched in front of an estimated 100,000 people lining the streets of Buffalo, nearly all boisterously in favor of the repeal of the 18th Amendment and the end of Prohibition.Most seemed to agree, it was written in the Courier-Express, that some government control over liquor by taxation was a better idea than “the unending stream of bootleg liquor and beer that flows tax-free through this city.”In characterizing the crowd, Courier reporter C.V. Curry noted there were no machine guns, bootleggers, gangsters, racketeers or “red-faced saloonkeepers of the days long ago.” Instead, he wrote, those marching to return to the legal stream of booze included socially prominent matrons, “veterans of the battlefields of France,” and “at least six elderly, dignified veterans of the Civil War.” Reference *12
Historic and Modern Distilleries. Reference *6 and *11
HARTMAN'S DISTILLING CO. https://www.hartmansdistilling.com/ Jen and Justin Hartman, Co-Founders - Justin is not just Hartman’s co-founder; he is also our master distiller. Justin’s passion for distilling didn’t come from some innate urge to create alcohol or need to perpetuate a family legacy (although it was later discovered Justin’s great-grandfather was a moonshiner in the Black Rock neighborhood of Buffalo). It grew from a collection of moments—from sipping exquisite bourbon with his father and brother to enjoying cocktails and swapping family stories with Hartman’s co-owners Bob and Lisa Hobba. It seemed to him that the better the whiskey or finer the cocktail, the more time people spent together laughing, connecting, and making memories. In time, Justin took his passion and ran with it. He spent several years traveling the country studying distilling, barreling, aging, and blending. He graduated from Moonshine University’s Distiller’s Course in Louisville, Kentucky—the heart of Bourbon Country—where he learned blending techniques rooted in 18th century French wine making traditions. He learned the science behind barrel aging and how to produce the smoothest distillate. He also developed his own theory as to why Western New York has a superior climate and conditions for aging spirits, similar to Ireland or Scotland. That Western New York essence together with Justin’s dedication and authentic passion inform every Hartman’s product. We hope you love our spirits as much as we do. Reference *2
STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY Our signature bourbon is a proprietary blend of high rye bourbon and high wheated bourbon aged in full 53-gallon new white oak barrels for five years and three years, respectively. Wanting to use only the best whiskey available, we source our bourbons from MGP in Indiana, winner of Distillery of the Year by Whiskey Advocate in 2015. This bourbon is then aged, proofed, blended, lightly filtered and bottled right here in Buffalo, New York. We are in the process of distilling our own high rye and high bourbon mash bills, which will be blended and bottled in the coming years. In the meantime, enjoy this full-bodied, balanced spirit at everyday and special occasions.
STRAIGHT RYE WHISKEY Rye is a hearty and resilient grain with a distinctflavor profile. It creates a spirit that’s big andbrash—just like the salt-of-the-earth folks whomade straight rye whiskey so popular so many years ago. Our version is aged in new charred American white oak barrels, resulting in a bold taste with a bit of spice. Aged at least three years.
AMERICAN DRY GIN Gin should be light, refreshing, and juniper forward. That’s why we created a juniper-based, citrus-infused, light American Dry Gin. It’s classic with a hint of daring, making it an ideal sipper or cocktail component. Try it in a simple gin and tonic or a craftier gin fizz.
VODKA Our vodka is made with 100% American corn grown in the country’s heartland. Six times distilled and ten times filtered, our vodka has an incredibly smooth and crisp finish. As a corn-based spirit, this product is naturally free of gluten.
LOGANBERRY FLAVORED VODKA Loganberry, a cross between a raspberry and blackberry, became a local favorite in our hometown of Buffalo, New York, decades ago. Today, it tastes like nostalgia and sweet summertime, making it a perfect addition to your cocktail recipe. This corn-based spirit is flavored with all natural flavor and certified gluten free. Sit back, enjoy a local unique flavor made right here in Buffalo, New York. As part of our “Hometown Series” we wanted to give back to our community by donating to a charity near and dear to our hearts. That’s why $1 from the sale of every Loganberry Flavored Vodka bottle will be donated to Cradle Beach. Cradle Beach is an organization that unites individuals and families, with a focus on empowering children with special needs and the under-served to become their best selves. This is done through creating life changing experiences in a safe and inclusive environment. To learn more about Cradle Beach’s incredible mission or to donate further, visit https://cradlebeach.org .
BUFFALO DISTILLING CO. Owners-Andy Wegrzyn, Kevin Ford, Frank Weber & Eric Kempisty https://www.buffalodistillingcompany.com/ In the rural hills of Wyoming County, where the pavement turns to dirt and the corn fields line the road, we set up shop in a small barn to distill craft spirits. This humble endeavor began by chance with the arrival of a homemade pot-still via family friend and southern moonshiner “Cowboy Bob”. It was here that Bob taught us the basics of distilling. In 2012, we filed for our DSP and NYS Class D Farm permit. This newly created license required at least 75% New York State grown produce to be used for production of Spirits (we use 100%). This law allows for the direct sale to consumers, liquor stores, bars and restaurants without having to sell through a distributor. Thus making it possible to compete with large producers and promote local agriculture. The distillery also helped during the pandemic by creating hand sanitizer for the public and making sure to supply front-line workers. Reference *1
In the beginning we wanted our brand to coincide with the company name “Buffalo Distilling”. But, when we registered the name “Buffalo Bourbon” as a brand, we quickly received objectionable letters from Buffalo Trace lawyers. We were strongly urged to forgo using our city's name sake and prized animal in our branding. So we decided to looked at another popular animal that happened to grace the side of our little moonshine shack, the rooster. And this particular rooster only had one leg.
Mafia Sauce Sports drink inspired Vodka. Perfect shot when your team scores! Best chilled.
OFC Barreled Krupnik What happens when you take the World's first Platinum Award Winning Krupnik and age it in our used Bourbon Barrels? Heaven on Earth. The subtle complexities from the barrel aging mingle with this honeyed delight to create a true one of a kind, world class experience.
OFC Single Barrel Bourbon Buffalo’s first whiskey since prohibition and first Straight Bourbon ever! Craft distilled in small batches with local corn, wheat, and malted barley. Aged in New Charred American White Oak Barrels, coopered in the Adirondacks by ADK Barrel Cooperage. Each batch is single barrel and aged 3 years or more. Distinctive flavor has a very smooth and easy drink-ability.
OFC Gin A prudent selection of herbs and botanical, thoughtfully united in chorus with our house distilled gluten free spirit. Upfront notes of Orange and Juniper that mellow nicely into a rich floral background with a sweet peppery finish. Polished for royalty yet approachable for the traditionalist. So here’s to a gin for people who love gin, Queen City Style!
OFC Vodka Premium Vodka made from start to finish in house with 100% local corn. Gluten Free. Clean body and smooth character. You’d be proud to bring this home to your Russian grandmother.
OFC Straight Bourbon Whiskey Buffalo New York‘s first ever Straight Bourbon Whiskey proudly delivers the true taste of Buffalo using local corn, wheat and malted barley at a flavor rich 90 proof. This 2+ year old whiskey is enjoyed straight up or over a cube of ice.
OFC Aged Apple Brandy A Calvados-style Apple Brandy. Aged for a minimum of 4 years in American Oak Barrels. Distilled from high quality apples harvested on Smith Orchards in Pendleton, NY. Cider is fermented on-site for up to four months and double distilled. Very subtle apple notes. Excellent for prohibition-style cocktails or drinking neat.
TOMMYROTTER DISTILLERY CO. The Tommyrotters’ Club was a band of rebellious artisans in the early 20th century who broke rank from the Arts and Crafts Movement to create for creation’s sake. They sought adventure, mischief and inspiration in nature. Honoring their industrious spirit of back, hand and heart, Tommyrotter Distillery crafts small batch spirits. https://www.tommyrotter.com/home Reference *9
STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY This delicious spirit is comprised of three separate, straight bourbons from Indiana, including a high corn bourbon, a high wheat bourbon and a high rye bourbon. A fine collection of bourbons, the final straight bourbon is finished in Taub Family Selections’ Heritance Cabernet Sauvignon French oak barrels from Rutherford, Napa Valley, California for 3 months. Non-chill filtered, then bottled at 95 proof, the result is an over proof bourbon consisting of corn, wheat, rye and malted barley.
AMERICAN GIN Pot-distilled in small batches to articulate a deliberate blend of infused herbs, fruits, roots and flowers. An ode to our craft, this is an independent gin.
SMALL BATCH VODKA Distilled batch by batch from American grain. Charcoal-filtered and bottled by hand. An ode to our craft, this is an independent vodka.
CIDER CASK FINISHED TENNESSEE STRAIGHT WHISKEY We siphoned off some of the delicious 7-year-old high-rye Tennessee whiskey that is blended into our Triple Barrel American Whiskey and dressed it up a bit! This whiskey was distilled in Tennessee in a bourbon mash style, then aged for 7 years* in re-charred white American oak barrels. The whiskey was then finished for months in hard cider barrels from Black Bird Cider Works, a cidery along the rural southern shores of Lake Ontario.
CASK STRENGTH BOURBON-BARREL GIN The perfect intersection of the gin and whiskey world. It’s the right choice for the adventurous drinker who is ready to take on a high-proof, category bending libation. Distilled in the same process as our award-winning American Gin, we use the identical 12 botanicals to flavor our signature herbaceous, citrusy gin. In true bourbon fashion, the un-aged spirit was placed in virgin White American Oak char #3 barrels at 62.5% ABV to rest post-distillation.
www.lockhousedistillery.com/ Lockhouse Distillery is the first distillery to operate in Buffalo, N.Y. since prohibition. Nestled in the Historic Cobblestone District we produce six flagship and two seasonal spirits. Our dedication is to producing spirits that are high quality and distinctive both in cocktails and on their own. Reference *5
Vodka The Buffalo, N.Y. area grows some of the best crops in the world. A fact we take full advantage of at Lockhouse Distillery. The vodka inside these bottles is entirely made from grapes. Grown in Buffalo's backyard on the Niagara Wine Trail. Using local ingredients may cost a little more, but we think you'll agree its worth it.Awards 2014 - American Distilling Institute Gold - Vodka Category 2015 - New York Wine and Food Classic - Silver - Vodka Category 2016 - New York Wine and Food Classic - Silver - Vodka Category 2016 - NYS Fair Wine and Spirits Comp. - Silver - Vodka Category
GIN As a New York Style we distill this Fine Gin with a reduced juniper content to let all the other herbs and botanicals grab your attention. Try it in a classic cocktail or a new age twist!AWARDS 2015 - New York Wine and Food Classic - Silver - Gin Category 2016 - New York Wine and Food Classic - Silver - Gin Category 2016 - NYS Fair Wine and Spirits Competition - Silver - Gin Category 2017 - American Craft Spirit Association - Silver - Contemporary Gin 2017 - American Distilling Institute Craft Spirits Judging
BARREL AGED GIN Towing the line between a young whiskey in color and texture & a prominent Gin in flavor and aroma, our Green Label Barreled Gin is not to be rivaled. Strong lavender and ginger take the lead before being rounded out by the oak. Great on it's own but even better with friends!AWARDS 2015 - NUS Fair Wine and Spirits Comp. - Silver - Aged Gin Category 2016 - Inaugural Taste New York Rochester Cocktail Revival Farm to Shaker - Best in Class - Gins & Best in Show - Double Gold 2016 - NY World Wine & Spirits Competition - Silver - Gin Category 2017 - American Craft Spirit Association - Bronze - Contemporary Gin 2017 - American Distilling Institute Craft Spirits Judging - Silver- Contemporary Gin
SAKURA GIN Traditionally the cherry blossom represents the fragility and beauty of life. Made using cherry blossoms collected from throughout the Olmsted Park System, this gin opens with a soft delicate texture and finishes firm, floral, and slightly sweet.AWARDS 2017 - American Distilling Institute Craft Spirits Judging - Silver - Contemporary Gin Category & The Stewards Choice Award
LAKEWARD SPIRITS CO. Buffalo's largest craft distillery became fully operational at The Barrel Factory with the launching of Lakeward Spirits in the fall of 2016. The family-owned start-up has been serving as the anchor business since it began distillery operations at the historic, newly-restored, 116-year-old landmark factory in the city’s legendary Old First Ward. Lakeward uses local New York State farm products, grains and malts, for its liquors, except for their rums. No NYS molasses and cane sugar are produced, so these ingredients are USA-sourced. Their rums are the FIRST EVER made in Buffalo! The distillery features Made-In-USA equipment, including their custom, hand-crafted copper stills and unique spirit safe, along with a keen eye for sustainable practices. Lakewardspirits.com Reference *3
FATHOMS BELOW SPICED RUM Our Spiced Rum is vapor-infused with a 8-spice blend and aged on custom charred American White Oak. Aromas of cinnamon, toffee, and candied ginger blend perfectly with smooth vanilla tones pulled from the wood. Surprisingly dry and complex; Fathoms Below is a unique substitute for a snifter of bourbon, or the perfect addition to a nautical cocktail.
INLAND SEA RUM Thousands of years ago, at the end of the last ice-age, the mile-thick glaciers covering North America began to shift. As they slowly retreated North, the massive weight of ice gouged deep into the earth's crust, leaving an expansive system of freshwater seas known as The Great Lakes. Inland Sea Rum begins with the finest molasses. Our unique yeast strain and solid-copper column still work together to create a smooth mouthfeel and spicy aroma - perfect in a mojito or served simply on-the-rocks.
EVERGREEN GIN Evergreen Gin is meant to be enjoyed year round: refreshing with tonic in the swelter of summer, or warming in your holiday punch. The aromas of our juniper-forward botanical blend married with a base of New York State grains will make you long for the ever-green misty wilds.
WILD GIN After long days at the distillery, we like to escape to the woodland trails outside the city. Some of our favorites run along the edge of New York's Cattaraugus gorge in Zoar Valley. This space between field and forest is filled with ferns, wildflowers, and herbaceous perennials that burst into bloom each spring.The sweet, fresh aroma that permeates these paths is the inspiration for the 16-botanical blend in Wild Gin.
UNCLE JUMBO'S DISTILLERY Uncle Jumbo's Distillery is owned and operated by Nick Kotrides. Their distillery supports local farmers and businesses wherever we can. At our Clarence Center distillery we use grain from local farms, labels produced in Akron, NY, bottles made with American glass and our equipment is made in the USA made from American steel. https://www.unclejumbosdistillery.com/ Reference *10
AMERICAN VODKA
BERRY GOOD VODKA
BLUESBERRY, ROOT BEER FLOAT, RASBERRY and ORANGE CREAM SODA MALTS
Modern and Historic Erie County Distilleries *11 Reference
References
1) "Buffalo Distilling Company". 2021. Buffalo Distilling Company. https://www.buffalodistillingcompany.com/.
2) "Hartman's Distilling Co.". 2021. Hartman's Distilling Co.. https://www.hartmansdistilling.com/.
3) "Lakeward Spirits Craft Distillery". 2021. Lakeward Spirits Craft Distillery. https://www.lakewardspirits.com/.
4) Lda, Iberian. 2021. "History Of Alcohol Distillation". Portuguese Copper Alembic Stills & Moonshine Distillers. https://www.copper-alembic.com/en/page/history-of-alcohol-distillation.
5) "Lockhouse Distillery & Bar". 2021. Lockhousedistillery.Com. https://www.lockhousedistillery.com/.
6) Miller, Amy, John Eiss, and Ethan Cox. 2016. "Buffalo Drinking Map". Google My Maps. https://tinyurl.com/TBHM-DrinkingMap.
7) "New York State Counties". 2018. Koordinates.Com. https://koordinates.com/layer/96216-new-york-state-counties/.
8) "Prescription For Whiskey During Prohibition". 2021. Buffalo. Digital Collection UB. University at Buffalo.
9) "Tommyrotter Distillery". 2021. Tommyrotter Distillery. https://www.tommyrotter.com/.
10) "Uncle Jumbo's Distillery". 2021. Unclejumbosdistillery.Com. https://www.unclejumbosdistillery.com/.
11) Van Ness, Cynthia. 2021. "Buffalo Maps". Buffaloresearch.Com. https://buffaloresearch.com/maps/.
12) Cichon, Steve. 2016. "Erie Canal, 'Atlantic's Back Door,' Opened 191 Years Ago - Buffalo Stories Archives & Blog". Buffalo Stories Archives & Blog. http://blog.buffalostories.com/erie-canal-atlantics-back-door-opened-191-years-ago/.
