The New York Distilling Company’s dream is to build a premier artisan distillery in the heart of New York City.
We want to produce gin and whiskey – because that’s what we like to drink.
We started raising money in April, 2009. Good timing, huh? Even our friends said we were crazy to try and raise money during the worst recession in anyone’s memory. Some urged us to wait and hope for better economic times. But we thought we had a good idea, and a good business plan, so we plunged ahead. Thanks to a group of daring and far-sighted investors, by June 30 we had raised enough to get started.
(We’re still raising money, but that’s a different story. Email Tom if you want to learn more.)
We’ve put together an exceptional team. Tom Potter, co-founder and former CEO of The Brooklyn Brewery—one of the most successful artisan breweries in the United States and the largest beverage alcohol company producing in New York City–will lead management. Allen Katz, one of the nation’s leading experts on spirits and immediate past Chairman of Slow Food USA, the largest food and beverage advocacy group in the nation, will develop products and lead the sales effort. Jason Grizzanti, the highly respected distiller at Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery, will serve as consulting Master Distiller. Milton Glaser, one of America’s most celebrated graphic designers, will provide design and packaging services. Tom’ son Bill Potter has also cast his future with the company: along with Allen and Tom he contributed founders funds and will become assistant distiller and tasting room manager.
We’d been scouring Brooklyn for the perfect location since the beginning of the year. Once we raised our necessary startup funds the hunt took on greater urgency. Our target neighborhoods were the Gowanus; Red Hook; Sunset Park, and Williamsburg. We didn’t actually think we could afford Williamsburg, but we ended up finding a wonderful building on Leonard Street and in October signed a lease. (To see what it looks like, check out The Shanty page.)