San Francisco's Hotaling & Co. to End Distilling Operations

San Francisco-based distiller and distributor Hotaling & Co. has announced its intention to close its Pier 50 distillery, switching focus to its import business.

This is set to affect the production of its Junipero gin, Old Potrero whiskey, and Hirsch whiskey brands.

It's import business in the US, deals with spirits from Fiero Tequila, Hine Cognac, Taiwanese distillery Kavalan, Japanese distillery Nikka and Irish distillery Dingle.

The company called the decision to end its distilling operations “a strategic step” after it carried out a comprehensive review on its long-term strategy and capital allocation priorities.

The company said that Junipero and Old Potrero will remain “important parts” of its portfolio. Old Potrero will be produced with one of Hotaling & Co.’s longtime partners, “likely Corning & Co.”, while Junipero’s partner has not been announced as of date.

“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 added.

Its Hirsch brand, meanwhile, will continue to be produced in partnership with other distilleries.

Hotaling & Co. was the sole producer of Junipero and Old Potrero expressions.

Hotaling & Co. used to operate as the Anchor Distilling Company, but rebranded after a trademark dispute in February 2018.

Hotaling & Co. master distiller Bruce Joseph retired last year after 45 years with the company; a tenure that began in 1980. Joseph created both Old Potrero and Junipero brands in 1996 and was said to be a leader in the US craft gin and whiskey movements.

On Instagram, current head distiller Kevin Aslan has confirmed he is leaving the company.

The company will remain headquartered in San Francisco and its longstanding partnerships throughout the Bay Area will continue, while its distributor network will not be affected by the distillery’s closure, nor will its current sales plans and brand support. 

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team