Agreement supports the long-term growth of premium whiskey brand Smoke Wagon
HOUSTON, TX (September 5, 2024) – Advanced Spirits is pleased to announce the closing of a multimillion-dollar deal with Nevada Distilling Co., the makers of Smoke Wagon bourbon and rye whiskeys. In this agreement, Advanced Spirits will secure barrels of Smoke Wagon’s bourbon and rye from long-time distilling partner MGP to ensure the long-term growth and stability of Smoke Wagon’s premium whiskey offerings.
Advanced Spirits, founded in 2022, offers a unique barrel financing program by purchasing barrels directly from suppliers and retaining ownership of them throughout the financing term. This model grants brand customers exclusivity over the barrel inventory and allows them to buy the barrels from Advanced Spirits at predetermined, fixed prices in the future.
“We’re thrilled to announce our new partnership with Smoke Wagon. Since launching in 2012, their expertise in barrel procurement and blending consistently distinguishes their whiskeys from the competition. What started as a cult following has now become a household name, and we are excited to support their continued success. This partnership would not have been possible without MGP, who we have a great working relationship with,” said Rob Arnold, Ph.D., president of Advanced Spirits.
Smoke Wagon offers four bourbon and three rye whiskey expressions in 30 states, earning top awards, including multiple Double Gold Medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
“Barrel inventory is essential for Smoke Wagon’s long-term growth. We deeply value Advanced Spirits’ swift execution and their keen understanding of our brand’s business needs. This strategic partnership allows us to focus our capital on expanding Smoke Wagon’s brand presence and influence,” said Aaron Chepenik, co-owner of Nevada Distilling Co.
About Advanced Spirits
Advanced Spirits, LLC is an innovative industry growth collaborator that specializes in the procurement, financing, and aging of whiskeys for their brand partners. They also have extensive experience in operations, sensory science, and flavor chemistry, which their brand partners can leverage to ensure quality and drive innovation. Advanced Spirits is a sister company of Barrel Hub, LLC, which is the first e-commerce platform for the wholesale bulk whiskey market. Both Advanced Spirits and Barrel Hub are led by Rob Arnold, Ph.D., former Master Distiller for TX Whiskey. For more information visit www.advanced-spirits.com and www.barrel-hub.com.
About Nevada Distilling Co.
Founded in 2012 by Aaron Chepenik and Jonathan Hensleigh, Nevada Distillery Co. is a premier distillery located in Las Vegas, Nevada. They are known for producing the award-winning Smoke Wagon Whiskey and Silver Dollar Vodka. Both brands have garnered significant acclaim in the industry, including multiple Double Gold Medals at prestigious competitions like the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Nevada Distilling Co. utilizes a distinctive aging process for whiskey that benefits from the Nevada desert’s climate, enhancing the flavor profiles and differentiating their brands. Bottles feature designs inspired by Nevada’s rich history, including the iconic sagebrush covering and replica of the Morgan silver dollar. Nevada Distilling’s commitment to quality and innovation has attracted an ever-growing, loyal following.
About MGP
MGP Ingredients, Inc. (Nasdaq: MGPI) is a leading producer of premium branded and distilled spirits, as well as food ingredient solutions. Since 1941, we have combined our expertise and energy aimed at formulating excellence, bringing product ideas to life collaboratively with our customers. As one of the largest distillers in the U.S., MGP’s offerings include bourbon and rye whiskeys, gins, and vodkas, which are created at the intersection of science and imagination, for customers of all sizes, from crafts to multinational brands. With distilleries in Kentucky and Indiana, and bottling operations in Missouri, Ohio, and Northern Ireland, MGP has the infrastructure and expertise to create on any scale.