Overview: One Well Brewing has officially introduced its new spirits division, One Well Spirits, to the public in Kalamazoo, Mich. The launch occurred last week, offering consumers a selection of vodka, gin, rum, bourbon, light whiskey, and agave spirits available by bottle or mixed into cocktails. Master Blender Tobin Hernandez oversees production within the existing taproom facility.
The Full Story
One Well Brewing opened its doors in 2014 as a craft brewery before expanding its portfolio to include ciders and seltzers. Owner Chris O’Neill established the space for the community to gather, but the addition of spirits marks a significant evolution in the business. The spirits division has been in development since October, with Hernandez leading the charge on distilling operations.
Despite the expansion, brewers understand the context of the local market and the need for variety. About 12 years ago, owner Chris O’Neill wanted to create a space for the community to come together, hang out, enjoy good times, enjoy some good food, and some craft beer. Over the years, the business expanded slowly. Going into spirits, the goal was to be able to offer a different experience to those who may not drink beer, but they still want to go out with their friends.
Production & Profile
Distilling is definitely a whole different ballgame from brewing, according to Hernandez. It takes a lot more time and effort. The production process utilizes Grain Neutral Spirit at 96% alcohol, which is proofed down to 40% for vodka or aged on botanicals for gin. From approximately 15 gallons of GNS, the facility can produce between 200 and 300 bottles of vodka.
The goal is to maintain an in-house base of at least 200 bottles of each product. A limited-release bourbon bottle run sold out quickly via preorder, prompting additional production runs. Currently, people have been super stoked about the new offerings. Future plans include exploring spiced rum and potentially adding a coffee liqueur.
Brand & Industry History
Chris O’Neill originally wanted to create a space for the community to enjoy good times and food about 12 years ago. Over the years, the business expanded from beer into other categories. The shift to spirits allows the brand to offer a different experience to those who may not drink beer but still want to socialize with friends.
What This Means
The initial response has been positive, with customers described as super stoked about the new offerings. Hernandez noted that the production side has been immensely successful so far. The brewery formally launched its spirits last week and began selling bottles from its taproom this week.
Consumer Takeaway
Drinkers can access these spirits directly from the Kalamazoo taproom, where they are available by the bottle or in cocktails such as vodka sodas, old fashioned, palomas, mojitos, and margaritas. The limited-release bourbon run was sold out quickly, indicating high demand for the new inventory.
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