Daniel Davis
A Spirited Affair: The Toastworthy Tale of Wigle Whiskey’s New Chapter
Hey there, whiskey enthusiasts and cider sippers! Gather ’round as we recount the delightful story of Pittsburgh’s pride and joy – Wigle Whiskey. And while we’re at it, let’s not forget its charming sibling, Threadbare Cider & Mead. Things are shaking up in the Steel City’s spirited scene, as these iconic brands have just hitched their wagons to an exhilarating new adventure. Thanks to a heartwarming agreement, Wigle Whiskey acquisition and Threadbare Cider & Mead sale have now joined the cozy hearth of Pittsburgh Spirits.
A Family Tale Steeped in Tradition
Picture this – a family united by dreams and distilled spirits, all bubbling over with passion and entrepreneurship. The founders of Wigle and Threadbare, led by the spirited Meredith Meyer Grelli, have spent a decade nurturing their liquid legacies. Surely, they didn’t just cast any spell to conjure the perfect successor. As Meredith puts it, their exhaustive quest across the land (okay, maybe just the country… and a bit of the world) culminated with the delightful discovery of Pittsburgh Spirits – kindred spirits with a shared vision for the brands’ future.
The Passing of the Torch
The Meyer-Grelli clan’s commitment to keeping their creations within the family realm and fostering them under the nurturing wings of Western Pennsylvania was no easy feat. Yet, they found their match in the Nutting family, the powerhouse behind Pittsburgh Spirits. And lo and behold, Bob Nutting himself, marveled at the legacy he was about to inherit – a tale of authenticity, community, and one darn good drink!
Distilling History: A Whiskey Rebellion Redux
Did you know? The dashing Philip Wigle threw a punch heard ’round the world, one that ignited the Whiskey Rebellion and left Alexander Hamilton’s excise tax reeling. Fast forward to 2011 and Wigle Whiskey rekindles Pittsburgh’s fiery spirit, becoming Pennsylvania’s first direct-to-consumer craft distillery since those prohibition doldrums.
Pinnacle of the Liquor Ladder
It’s no wonder Wigle has been climbing the distillery charts like a whiskey-fueled rocket, soaring into the top 10% of craft distilleries nationwide. And get this – not once, but twice has it been a James Beard Award semi-finalist affront. The accolades don’t end there, friends; the distillery has consistently been dubbed the most awarded craft whiskey distillery in the U.S. by the American Craft Spirits Association for seven straight years. Talk about a winning streak!
The Cider Side of the Story: Threadbare Cider & Mead’s Rise to Fame
Oh, but our story is far from over. Enter Threadbare Cider & Mead, weaving its own legendary yarn under the inspired moniker of Johnny Appleseed. It seems the apple truly doesn’t fall far from the tree, as this top-notch cidery has been sweeping up medals and praise like it’s going out of style, earning a reputation akin to cider royalty in the U.S.
Expansion on the Horizon
With the ink still fresh on this historic union, the excitement bubbles over into a foreshadowing of a future filled with innovation and “cheers.” As the grand vision for craft distillery expansion unfolds, we can only imagine the delightful concoctions and tales that will flow from the stills and fermentation tanks of these artisanal alchemists.
A Symphony of Flavors: The Products that Piqued Palates
Wigle’s vast treasure chest of liquid gems boasts not only rye whiskey and bourbon but also an imaginative array of ready-to-drink cocktails, gin, rum, liqueurs, amari, and bitters. Fancy a tour, a sip, and perhaps a nibble? Their cherished Strip District Distillery offers all these alongside a delightful bar, restaurant, mini-museum, and retail store.
Threadbare’s Orchard Offerings
Meanwhile, Threadbare Cider House invites you to their North Side nook, where the ambrosia of ciders and meads flows free, crafted lovingly from regional orchards and apiaries. Thirsty for more? They distribute across several states and can even ship a bottle or two straight to your doorstep.
The Shared Dream: Honoring Pittsburgh’s Spirit Legacy
Family-owned spirit companies like Pittsburgh Spirits don’t simply stride onto the stage; they leap with heart and heritage. Their promise is to listen, learn, and lovingly support the future of Wigle and Threadbare. And so, the tale continues as Pittsburgh basks in the glow of these warm, welcoming, and wonderously whiskied worlds, all under the adoring gaze of community, innovation, and familial fellowship.
Guiding the Future with a Nod to the Past
Wigle and Threadbare have woven themselves into the rich tapestry that is Pittsburgh’s ever-evolving gastronomic galaxy. CEO of Pittsburgh Spirits, Eric Mauck, understands this legacy like a true connoisseur of heritage and hospitality. He stands ready to shepherd these brands into their dazzling destiny, adding layers of love and expertise to every sip served.
So, my good folks, raise your glasses high for the freshly poured future of Wigle Whiskey and Threadbare Cider & Mead. Like the finest-aged bourbon, this new tale promises to be sweet, spicy, and oh, so smooth. Here’s to new beginnings that respect the richness of bygone times – a blend of tradition and vision, spiced with Pittsburgh’s indomitable spirit. Cheers!
I absolutely loved this article about the Wigle Whiskey sale and the new era it’s sparking for the distillery scene in Pittsburgh. The passion and innovation behind Wigle Whiskey’s spirits are truly inspiring, and I can’t wait to see how this sale propels them even further into success.