In 2015, over a few pints of Southern Tier beer, we had an idea. (Truth be told, it’s a place where lots of our great ideas begin). What if we took the same hard work, craft attitude and innovative thinking that helped us grow our brewery, and applied it to distilling?
Not by carting off to Kentucky, but by raising a distillery right next door to our brewery in the woods of Lakewood. We would source local materials. Experiment with recipes that shared some of our time-honored brewing traditions. And create a sister company offering craft spirits.
We proudly distill with the majority of our ingredients coming from right here in New York, earning us a New York State Farm Distiller’s license. It’s allowed us to create some classic favorites and some tasty “experi-fermentations. “
Today, our bourbons patiently age in oak barrels racked five high along the walls. In the meantime, our master distiller, never one to sit still, is crafting specialty rums, vodkas, gins and whiskies that is sure to warm the soul on a cold winter’s day.
We invite you to stop by The Empty Bottle for a taste of whatever we happen to be pouring.
Get a behind-the-scenes look at how we make our spirits by taking a guided tour of our distillery! Discover the history of Southern Tier Distilling Co., see our 1,100 gallon stills, and check out our rack house with over 500 barrels. Tours cost $15 per person and must be booked in advance. Must be 21+ to sample. Email: info [at] southerntierdistilling.com if you’re interested in scheduling a tour.
Southern Tier Brewing Company
In 2002, founders Phineas and Sara DeMink and Allen “Skip” Yahn started Southern Tier Brewing Co. in Lakewood, New York, with the vision of reviving the practice of small batch brewing to a region rich in brewing tradition. Today, Southern Tier has grown into one of the largest craft brewers in the country. Our hand-crafted ales are now available across the country. And while our fans know and love our many tried and true brand, they also welcome the new flavors we’re always dreaming up and pouring in our brew pubs in Lakewood, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Buffalo and Charlotte. Cheers!