Old Elk Distillery Acquired by Ohio’s Middle West Spirits

Old Elk Distillery has been acquired by Middle West Spirits. (Photo: Middle West Spirits)

Middle West Spirits announced on Tuesday that it has acquired Old Elk Distillery and its assets, extending the Columbus, Ohio-based company’s reach in the national whiskey market.

The acquisition adds Old Elk’s award-winning whiskey portfolio to Middle West’s growing branded lineup. The companies said the move allows them to combine production capabilities, scale operations and expand distribution.

“This is a meaningful moment for both our teams,” Middle West Spirits Founding Lead Distiller and CEO Ryan Lang said in a news release. “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.”

Founded in 2008, Middle West Spirits is the largest distillery in Ohio. It handles all stages of production in-house and supplies both proprietary and contract spirits. The company has recently expanded its distilling capacity and ranks among the top 10 grain-to-glass producers in the U.S.

Old Elk, based in Fort Collins, Colorado, was founded in 2013. The brand is known for its “Slow Cut” proofing process and distribution in all 50 states. Master Distiller Greg Metze, who joined the company in 2016 after a long career at MGP, brought decades of industry experience to the brand.

“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,” Old Elk CEO Luis Gonzalez said. “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.”

The companies emphasized a shared focus on quality, innovation and customer relationships. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.