Established in 2006 by Robert J. Cooper and Katie Cooper, The Cooper Spirits Co. is an independent maker of distinctive spirits, best known for Hochstadter’s Slow & Low Rock & Rye, a bottled cocktail built around aged straight rye whiskey. The company also develops carefully composed liqueurs and whiskey expressions, including the revived Crème Yvette and its aged Lock Stock & Barrel rye portfolio.
Hudson Valley DistillersSince 2014, family-run Hudson Valley Distillers has been hand-distilling farm-to-bottle spirits in New York’s Hudson Valley and turning them into ready-to-pour bottled cocktails. Husband-and-wife team Chris and Jennifer Moyer run the operation with Jennifer’s brother, Stephen Theiss: Chris distills, Jennifer develops the cocktails, and Stephen handles packaging. The veteran-, woman-, and LGBT+-owned business sources ingredients from nearby farms and grain growers, keeping its spirits closely tied to the local community.CLERMONT, NY
Weppon & Co. LtdTwo friends from New York turned an attempt to open a bar into Weppon & Co. Ltd., a whiskey maker built around its proprietary Temper Distilling method. The company distills above the usual 160-proof limit and combines three mashbills before aging the spirit in charred oak, producing its award-winning Weppon Whiskey and Sinamon whiskey. Its products are designed to work beyond traditional whiskey cocktails, including drinks usually made with tequila or rum.
The Albany Distilling CompanyFounded in 2011 as Albany’s first distillery since Prohibition, The Albany Distilling Company makes small-batch spirits in downtown Albany using both traditional and modern methods. Its portfolio includes Ironweed whiskey made with New York State grains, along with other house brands and contract-distilling work for emerging spirit companies. The company also operates a house bar where its products can be enjoyed.ALBANY, NY
Toledo Spirits CoFounded in 2013, Toledo Spirits Co. is a Toledo craft distiller known for making spirits that reflect the character of the Midwest. From its historic warehouse on the Maumee River, the company pairs traditional techniques with meaningfully sourced ingredients and welcomes both spirits enthusiasts and the wider community through its Bellwether cocktail bar.TOLEDO, OH