Redwood Empire Whiskey Acquires Savage & Cooke Distillery to Meet Growing Demand
Derek Benham, owner of Redwood Empire Whiskey, has announced a strategic acquisition of the Savage & Cooke distillery, a move that aims to elevate the brand’s production capabilities and enhance its customer experience. This acquisition will allow Redwood Empire to meet the soaring demand for its products while continuing to uphold its commitment to crafting exceptional spirits. The newly acquired facility, located on Mare Island just north of San Francisco, will also serve as a premier visitor destination for whiskey enthusiasts.
“Our goal has always been to produce exceptional spirits, and with this new distillery, we’re positioning ourselves to do just that on a larger scale,” said Benham, reflecting on the company’s long-term vision. Since its founding in 2014, Redwood Empire Whiskey has earned a reputation for its innovative expressions and California-inspired branding. The brand’s 2024 volumes are expected to grow by 30%, reaching an impressive 55,000 9L cases. Popular offerings include Pipe Dream Bourbon, Bottled in Bond Grizzly Beast Bourbon, Rocket Top Rye, and Screaming Titan Wheated Bourbon, alongside exclusive barrel programs like Haystack Needle.
Aaron Webb, CEO of Purple Brands, Redwood Empire’s parent company, also emphasized the importance of the acquisition. “This acquisition solidifies Redwood Empire’s position as a serious American Whiskey player,” Webb remarked. “Demand for our offerings has far exceeded our production capacity for several years. This move solves that challenge, but it’s not just about expansion—it’s about preserving our tradition of excellence while pushing the boundaries of what we can create.“
The Mare Island distillery, which consists of two historic brick buildings, is equipped with a state-of-the-art Vendome pot column hybrid still to ensure the production of rich, full-flavored spirits. The facility also includes a barrel room, tasting room, speakeasy bar, eatery, and private event space. The Redwood Empire team, already familiar with the site through prior collaborations with Savage & Cooke, will officially transition into the new space by January 2025.
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