Family-owned since 1975, Oak Chips Inc. is a long-established specialist in oak alternatives for winemakers and distillers. Founded by Ben Nathan, the company sources wood from Appalachian forests and historic French forests, then develops it through a proprietary toasting process refined over five decades.
Independent Stave CompanyFounded in 1912 by T.W. Boswell, Independent Stave Company is a fourth-generation family-owned business that makes oak barrels and other cooperage products. Its history began with white oak staves, and the company has since expanded its manufacturing operations internationally while continuing to serve distillers and winemakers.ZANESVILLE, OH
Ohio Valley Veneer, IncFounded by Edward and Carol Robbins in 1990, Ohio Valley Veneer is a family-owned, three-generation Appalachian hardwood sawmilling company. From timberlands across the Ohio Valley, it hand-selects forest logs and produces graded lumber at multiple regional mills, with annual production of roughly 30–32 million board feet. Its operations also include Ohio Valley Chipping and Ohio Valley Stave, extending the family’s timber business into wood chips and whiskey-barrel staves.PIKETON, OH
Hartzell HardwoodsFamily-owned Hartzell Hardwoods has turned Piqua, Ohio, timber into premium walnut and thick oak lumber since 1875. The six-generation company pioneered steaming walnut, now produces 22 million board feet annually, and ships sustainably sourced hardwoods from its Ohio and Missouri facilities to customers in more than 40 countries. Hartzell remains especially known for walnut and thick stock, with a focus on careful drying, grading, and packaging.PIQUA, OH