While renowned for its scenic vineyards, a quieter renaissance is bubbling in the Finger Lakes region of New York: the rise of artisan liquor distilleries. From humble beginnings, the industry has experienced explosive growth, transforming the local beverage landscape and attracting discerning palates worldwide. But what’s behind this potent concoction of success?
One key ingredient is the fertile terroir itself. The Finger Lakes boast diverse agricultural bounty, offering distillers access to locally grown grains, fruits, and botanicals. This allows them to experiment with unique ingredients, from apples and grapes to lavender and honey, infusing their spirits with the distinct character of the region.
Shifting consumer preferences have also played a crucial role. The demand for authentic, handcrafted products has surged, and consumers are increasingly seeking out small-batch spirits with local stories. Finger Lakes distilleries cater to this desire, offering personalized experiences and transparent production processes, fostering a connection with their customers.
Supportive state policies have further fueled the industry’s growth. New York Farm Distillery legislation streamlined licensing and regulations, making it easier for small producers to enter the market. Additionally, initiatives like the New York Farm Products Commission’s “Craft NY” program provide marketing and technical assistance, empowering distilleries to thrive.
Collaboration is another essential element. The Finger Lakes Distillers Association fosters a strong community, facilitating knowledge sharing, joint marketing efforts, and even collaborative spirit creations. This spirit of cooperation strengthens the industry as a whole, attracting tourism and raising the profile of Finger Lakes spirits on the national stage.
The impact of this boom extends beyond the tasting room. Distilleries create jobs, revitalize rural communities, and contribute to the region’s agritourism sector. They also support local farms, forging mutually beneficial partnerships and ensuring the sustainability of the entire ecosystem.
Some of the great distillaries to visit in the FLX include:
- Black Button Distilling: Nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes, Black Button Distilling creates handcrafted, small-batch spirits using locally sourced ingredients. From their award-winning bourbon to their unique fruit liqueurs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. https://barcart.blackbuttondistilling.com
- Finger Lakes Distilling: As the region’s first standalone distillery, Finger Lakes Distilling has been a pioneer in the craft spirits movement. They use locally grown fruits and grains to produce a wide variety of whiskeys, vodkas, gins, brandies, and liqueurs. https://fingerlakesdistilling.com
- Smokin Tails Distillery:After years of Peter making his moonshine in the hearse garage and all of us friends taking full advantage of his creations; Chris jokingly said, “We should open a distillery!” We all proclaimed, “Pete’s moonshine is like nothing we’ve ever tasted before!” After winning Master Distiller in March 2020, Chris’s jokes soon became a reality. Six months later, during a worldwide pandemic, Smokin’ Tails Distillery was born. https://smokintails.com/
- Hidden Marsh Distillery: Custom-built in Germany, our 400-liter Christian Carl column pot still has 2 columns consisting of a 4-plate column for high-end brandy production and a 21-plate column for premium vodka production. Being the first of its kind in the Finger Lakes region, we’re proud to be a pioneer in the field of artisan distilling in New York State. Each batch is a hands-on process and takes on a more artistic form producing high-quality premium spirits. https://www.montezumawinery.com/hidden-marsh-distillery
- Barrelhouse 6 Distillary: Barrelhouse 6 Distillery opened to the public in Hammondsport New York in May of 2021. It is one of the premier start-up craft distilleries in the U.S., located in the beautiful Finger Lakes “Wine Country” Region of New York. https://barrelhouse6.com
The future of distilling in the Finger Lakes is bright. With a passionate community, innovative spirit, and unwavering dedication to quality, the region is poised to continue its ascent as a premier destination for craft spirits aficionados. So, raise a glass and savor the unique flavors of the Finger Lakes, knowing that each sip contributes to a thriving local scene brimming with potential.
