A Major San Francisco Distillery Is Shutting Down

San Francisco-based Hotaling & Co will end its distilling operations, according to The Spirits Business. The move will not affect distribution, brand investment or supply of its core labels, including Junipero gin and Old Potrero whiskey.

The news was first reported by Mark Gillespie.

The company described the move as “a strategic step” following a review of capital allocation and long-term priorities.

“The decision enables us to sharpen our focus on our core strengths as a builder and importer of world-class fine spirits brands and to align resources around the areas where we are best positioned to drive sustainable growth,” the company said in a statement, as reported by The Spirits Business. “It allows us to focus resources where we have the strongest competitive advantage — building and scaling fine spirits brands through marketing excellence and commercial execution. This is a proactive strategic decision designed to strengthen the business for the future.”

Junipero and Old Potrero to Continue

Despite the closure, Hotaling & Co said Junipero and Old Potrero will remain active brands in its portfolio. Both brands posted growth for the fiscal year to date through January, with Junipero up 9% and Old Potrero up 10%.

“We will continue to sell and support both brands. Supply continuity remains a priority. We have sufficient bulk and bottled inventory in place and will continue working with trusted Bay Area production partners to ensure consistent quality and seamless availability in the market,” the company said.

Old Potrero will be produced with one of Hotaling & Co.’s longtime partners, likely Corning & Co. A production partner for Junipero has not yet been finalized.

The Hirsch whiskey brand will continue through sourcing partnerships.

“[Hirsch] whiskeys are expertly sourced and further developed by Hotaling & Co, in the manner of the original A.H. Hirsch, who was acclaimed for his sourcing and selection of remarkable whiskey,” the company said.

Hotaling & Co produces Junipero and Old Potrero and owns the Hirsch brand. It also imports and builds several international spirits brands in the U.S., including Fiero Tequila, Hine Cognac, Kavalan, Nikka and Dingle.

The company said the distillery closure will not affect its distributor network or sales plans.

“There are no changes to shipment plans, commercial priorities, or brand investment. We remain focused on delivering against our commitments and supporting our brands in the market,” it confirmed.

Hotaling & Co will remain headquartered in San Francisco and continue its Bay Area partnerships.

Facility Wind-Down and Transition

The company did not give a specific date for the closure but said the facility will follow a “structured wind-down plan.” It is open to discussions with outside parties interested in leasing the space or acquiring equipment.

“We are open to discussions with interested parties regarding the lease and/or equipment as part of a responsible transition process,” it added.

Master distiller Bruce Joseph retired last year after 45 years with the company. He joined in 1980 and created Old Potrero and Junipero in 1996.

On Instagram, current head distiller Kevin Aslan said he will depart on Feb. 27.

“I will no longer be part of Junipero, Old Potrero or Hirsch after 27 February 2026,” his post read. Anchor Distilling/Hotaling gave me 15 incredible years and I am nothing but grateful to have represented these iconic brands for so long.

“Please keep supporting the brands and Hotaling. Not sure what’s next for me. If you’re reading this, thank you for your support.”

Hotaling & Co operated as Anchor Distilling Company until February 2018, when it rebranded following a trademark dispute.

For consumers, the near-term impact centers on continuity. The brands will remain on shelves, production will shift to partner facilities, and the company will focus on imports and brand building rather than in-house distilling.