Overview: Gallagher Distillery has officially opened its doors in Carbondale, bringing a selection of spirits to the region. Owned by Sharon and Matthew Gallagher, the facility launched in March 2026 at 16 Salem Ave. The distillery offers a range of products including whiskey, rum, and corn whiskey, aiming to provide accessible access to spirits that are often difficult to find.
The Full Story
The business is situated just off Main Street and represents one of the smallest distilleries in the state. Matthew and Sharon Gallagher live in Tobyhanna and were inspired to start making and selling alcohol after watching a popular Discovery Channel show called “Moonshiners.” They noted that while breweries are common, distilleries producing whiskey and rum are harder to come across locally. To address this, the partners utilized trial and error to determine which blends produced the best flavors. The facility features a tasting room where visitors can sample small portions of products in plastic cups before purchasing. Gift boxes containing bartender mixing cups are also available for those who wish to take their experience home.
Production & Profile
The distillery produces whiskey in four distinct varieties, including a signature Gold blend alongside red, rye, and bourbon options. Rum is available in both regular and aged formats, while corn whiskey serves as a legal alternative to moonshine. A specific green, alien-themed version of corn whiskey is being prepared for the Carbondalien Festival later in the fall. Sourcing remains a priority, with water, corn, and the still itself originating from the Lackawanna Valley and the Poconos. Ingredients are sourced from local farms in NEPA, though malt kernels currently come from near Pittsburgh until a more local source is identified.
Brand & Industry History
The founding of Gallagher Distillery was driven by a desire to replicate the processes seen on television without a permit, transitioning into legal production. Matthew Gallagher stated that the show followed lives and processes of those who make and distribute alcohol without a permit, which sparked their interest. The owners have already started making the festival-specific corn whiskey in preparation for the upcoming event. They are also looking forward to selling gin by the end of the year, expanding their portfolio beyond the initial whiskey and rum offerings.
What This Means
The opening changes the local landscape where distilleries were previously scarce compared to breweries. Matthew Gallagher noted that other locations charged too much for rent, leading them to choose Carbondale despite it being a smaller town. If the business grows enough, they are considering moving to a former bank next to Barbour’s Bakery, which could house the still in a vault. The distillery has also begun hosting musicians during monthly events to attract customers inside and outside the facility.
Consumer Takeaway
Visitors can visit the tasting room at 16 Salem Ave. to try small portions of products before deciding to buy. Entry is limited to those 21 and over, with hours running Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Fridays from noon to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information about any of its products, the distillery’s Facebook page, Instagram page, or phone number 917-795-7645 can be contacted.
Source: Read the original article
