Middle West Spirits Welcomes Old Elk Distillery to Its Portfolio
A Strategic Acquisition for Craft Spirits
COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Middle West Spirits, one of North America’s largest independently-owned distilleries, has acquired Old Elk Distillery and its assets. Known for its award-winning whiskeys, loyal customer base, and unique Slow Cut® proofing process, Old Elk enhances Middle West’s growing portfolio with its celebrated craftsmanship.
“This is a meaningful moment for both our teams,” said Ryan Lang, Founding Lead Distiller and CEO of Middle West Spirits. “Old Elk has built a respected and beloved brand with staying power, thanks to a distinct blending and innovation philosophy that complements our grain-to-glass production model. Their agility in developing award-winning blends pairs naturally with our technical approach and scale. Together, we’re not just expanding—we’re joining forces to preserve what makes each brand special while unlocking new potential. We’re laying the foundation for long-term growth with a shared focus on quality, transparency and customer relationships.”
Uniting Innovation and Scale
By merging Old Elk’s brand momentum with Middle West’s robust infrastructure, this acquisition aims to reach more consumers, drive innovation, and elevate craft spirits at scale. Middle West, founded in 2008, is the largest distillery in Ohio and among the top 10 grain-to-glass whiskey producers in the U.S., managing every production step in Columbus, OH.
A Shared Vision for the Future
“Since the day we launched over 8 years ago, we’ve been laser focused on one thing: listening —truly listening—to our team, customers and partners. That focus has brought us to this incredible moment,” said Luis Gonzalez, CEO of Old Elk. “Our relationships have always been at the heart of what we do and have been pivotal in shaping our journey. We’re wholeheartedly grateful to our extraordinary team, loyal customers and to our national distributor partner, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, for their trust and belief in our vision. I’m extremely appreciative to Greg Metze for his mentorship, craftmanship and dedication to the team and his lasting impact and influence on the spirits industry. We are thankful for our founders Curt and Nancy Richardson for their vision in creating a world-class whiskey. Their legacy has inspired us for many years.”
“This acquisition isn’t just a milestone, it’s a launchpad. We’re securing the future of the Old Elk legacy with dedicated production and a true home for our brand, one that fans and partners alike can rally around for years to come,” adds Gonzalez. “As we grow, Middle West Spirits is doubling down on what matters most: delivering on demand, pushing innovation and building a best-in-class infrastructure that sets a new standard in the spirits industry. Joining the Middle West family is a powerful step forward—and together, we’re ready to shake things up and make bold moves. Together, I see an exciting future filled with opportunity and shared success for our customers, consumers and distributor partners.”
About Middle West Spirits
Founded in 2008, Middle West Spirits is rooted in Ohio’s grain belt, producing award-winning spirits like Middle West Bourbon, Rye, Wheat Whiskey, and OYO Vodka. With over 200 awards from competitions like the ASCOT Awards and Heartland Whiskey Competition, Middle West is a leader in American craft spirits. Visit the Courtland Avenue Distillery in Columbus, OH, or explore more at middlewestspirits.com. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
About Old Elk Distillery
Since its founding in 2013 in Fort Collins, CO, Old Elk Distillery has focused on innovation and quality. With the Slow Cut® proofing process and leadership from Master Distiller Greg Metze, Old Elk’s portfolio spans all 50 states, earning numerous awards. Learn more at oldelk.com.
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