Small batch spirits to start flowing in Carmel in 2018 . . .
Sun King Brewery, one of the leaders of the independent craft beer movement in Indiana, announced new details about its planned distillery at an event Tuesday. The approximately 15,000 square-foot craft distillery and tap room in Carmel is projected to open in spring 2018 and will be capable of producing a maximum of 10,000 proof gallons of spirits.
Sun King’s co-founder and head brewer, Dave Colt, who completed his distiller’s education working with world-renowned distillers at the Distilled Spirits Epicenter in Kentucky, will oversee a 250-gallon still that will be used to craft high-quality, handcrafted, small batch spirits. Once opened, customers will be able to first taste Sun King’s artisan moonshine, gin and rum. Sun King will also produce a small batch whiskey that will be aged in Sun King barrels for several years. The distillery will also produce seasonal spirits that will be available at limited times throughout the year, similar to Sun King’s seasonal brews that have gained popularity. Customers will be able to purchase beer, spirits and Sun King’s unique mixers at the distillery in order to recreate and enjoy Sun King’s unique cocktails at home.
“Drawing from our knowledge and experience in creating award-winning craft beer, we’re having fun experimenting with different quality ingredients and investing in state-of-the art technology and equipment to create our unique handcrafted spirits and cocktails,” said Colt. “All of our spirits are inspired by artisan Indiana farmers and producers, and we plan to showcase their harvest in our infusions, spirits, and cocktails. We’re also exploring a wide variety of local restaurants that will offer delicious menu pairings that will complement our spirits.”
Steven Unrue, culinary director at Sun King, and Colt are currently working to develop the distillery’s unique, handcrafted cocktail lineup that will be made with fresh, local and regional ingredients whenever possible. Customers will be able to sample cocktails and spirits in the distillery’s taproom or on the rooftop patio that will overlook the Monon Trail with windows looking down into the distillery. The distillery will also house four food vendors, each of which will be independently-operated local restaurants and there will be space available for private meetings and events. The vendors are yet to be announced.
“We are excited about the progress Sun King is making on its beautiful new distillery and tap room and for having the confidence to invest in our emerging midtown redevelopment area,” said Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard. “We look forward to watching Sun King grow and succeed as we continue to do the same in Midtown, a rapidly growing district that continues to attract high quality businesses and amenities for both residents and visitors.”
“We envisioned the future Midtown Plaza, a vibrant city park space along the Monon Trail, being anchored by a one of a kind culinary and cultural attraction,” said Justin Moffett, of Carmel’s Old Town Development, which is partnering with Sun King to develop the location for the distillery. “Sun King’s new distillery project was beyond our wildest expectations. The architecture by Delv Design showcases an industrial warehouse theme for the Midtown neighborhood, which is true to its roots as a railroad stop along the Monon. Construction has commenced and we’re on track to open in Spring 2018.”
Drawing inspiration from Indiana, Sun King has produced more than 300 different varieties of beer since 2009, dozens of which have been awarded national and international medals.
About Sun King Brewery
Sun King Brewing Company is the brainchild of Dave Colt and Clay Robinson. With the help of family and friends – Omar Robinson, Andy Fagg and Steve Koers – the first keg of Sun King beer rolled out the door for delivery in July 2009. Now available on tap and in cans throughout Indiana, Chicago and Louisville, Ky., Sun King has grown into a leader in the independent craft brewing movement. Sun King’s brewers hand craft flagship, seasonal and specialty beers that have been rewarded with multiple medals at the Great American Beer Festival, World Beer Cup, and Indiana Brewers Cup competitions. Sun King also partners with hundreds of community organizations throughout Indiana in order to help them raise awareness and funds for great causes. Visit www.sunkingbrewing.com for more information. Sun King Brewery is also on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.