Bruce Joseph retires after 45 years of shaping American craft spirits—his legacy lives on at Hotaling & Co.
SAN FRANCISCO, February 12, 2025 – After nearly 45 years of shaping the American craft brewing and distilling industries, Bruce Joseph will officially retire and transition into the role of Master Distiller Emeritus and distillery consultant for Hotaling & Co., effective February 13, 2025.
A Legacy of Craft Brewing and Distilling
Joseph’s journey began in October 1980, when he joined Anchor Brewing Company, contributing to the production of some of the most iconic craft beers before shifting his focus to distilling. In 1993, he became the first full-time distiller for what was then called Anchor Distilling (now Hotaling & Co.), pioneering the craft spirits movement.
Joseph played a pivotal role in reviving American rye whiskey and advancing craft gin, creating Old Potrero Rye Whiskey and Junipero Gin in 1996. His portfolio expanded with standout releases such as
- Old Potrero Hotaling’s Whiskey (2006) – Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the 1906 Great San Francisco Earthquake
- Genevieve Gin (2007) – A unique malty and botanical gin
- JH Cutter Whiskey (2018) – A blend of fine American whiskeys
- Old Potrero Christmas Spirit (2024) – A limited-edition holiday release
His decades-long contributions were honored in 2023 when the Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. awarded him the Distinguished Service Award for his impact on the American spirits industry.
Bruce Joseph Reflects on His Legacy
“As I reflect on my career over the last 45 years, beginning as a young brewer at Anchor, I realize how fortunate I was to have a ringside seat for not only the craft brewing revolution but the rebirth of craft distilling, too,” said Bruce Joseph.
“I could never have predicted that a secret project I worked on with Fritz Maytag would prove so pivotal in fostering the robust craft spirits scene we enjoy today. We developed our whiskey and gin from a place of true inspiration and creativity, and as we brought them to production, Fritz ingrained in all of us that quality is paramount. That principle continues to guide us today.”
Hotaling & Co. Honors Joseph’s Impact
“Bruce’s legacy is one of innovation and excellence, and we are honored to continue building on the incredible groundwork he laid,” said Dan Leese, CEO of Hotaling & Co. “While we will miss his daily presence, we are thrilled to celebrate his remarkable career and look forward to his continued guidance as Master Distiller Emeritus.”
For more details on Hotaling & Co., visit www.hotalingandco.com.
About Hotaling & Co.
Founded in 1993, Hotaling & Co. is a San Francisco-based distiller and importer of artisanal spirits. Originally known as Anchor Distilling, the company played a key role in the craft distilling renaissance in the U.S. Today, its portfolio includes world-class whiskey, gin, tequila, mezcal, rum, cognac, and liqueurs, featuring brands such as:
🥃 Old Potrero Rye Whiskey
🍸 Junipero Gin
🔥 HINE Cognac
🌵 Fiero Tequila
🏴☠️ Denizen Rum
📝 Writers’ Tears Whiskey
Explore their full collection at www.hotalingandco.com.
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