10 Aug Indianapolis-based West Fork Whiskey Co. Becomes One of Largest Craft Whiskey Distilleries in the U.S. with Announcement of Westfield Facility Grand Opening
– 30,000 square-foot agritourism facility open to the public on August 20 –
– Mash House restaurant, Stave cocktail lounge, event space complement expanded distillery operations to create a unique and immersive experience –
WESTFIELD, IND. – Craft whiskey distillery West Fork Whiskey Co. today announces the grand opening of its 30,000 square-foot agritourism facility, open to the public on August 20. In addition to expanded distillery operations, which will have the capacity to produce upwards of 5,000 53-gallon barrels each year, the new facility includes Mash House, a family friendly restaurant led by Executive Chef Carlos Salazar featuring elevated Hoosier classics; Stave, a 21 and older cocktail lounge; a 5,000 sq. ft. event center; retail space; and guided and educational tours – making it one of the largest agritourism facilities in the Midwest.
With the additional capacity, West Fork will be considered one of the largest craft whiskey distilleries in the country and employ approximately 100 Hoosiers.
The inside of the welcome center at West Fork. There a gift shop, speakeasy, restaurant, and views of the production facility within 40 feet of this spot. image credit: Walter
“Today our vision of providing a one-of-a-kind Midwestern experience at West Fork comes to life, and our team is eager to introduce visitors to a taste of Indiana whiskey and local flavors,” said Blake Jones, co-owner of West Fork. “From craft whiskey tastings to our family friendly restaurant, there’s something for everyone here and we look forward to raising a glass with Indiana residents and visitors from near and far.”
Aligning with West Fork’s mission to maintain approachability in its products, Mash House and Stave will feature creative yet approachable food and drink options cultivated by Chef Salazar and beverage director Todd Tapp.
“The Mash House menu places a heavy emphasis on local ingredients to pay homage to Indiana’s deep agriculture heritage and offer foodies their favorite Midwestern fare with a twist. Visitors’ culinary experiences will be rounded out with a cocktail at Stave, where expert mixologists will craft West Fork seasonal signature drinks and classics alike,” said Salazar and Tapp.
First announced in 2020, West Fork broke ground on Phase 1, the current 12+ acre development, in July 2021.
“Indiana will be home to one of the largest craft whiskey distilleries in the nation and it’s because of a strong partnership, a community that prioritizes quality of life and a state that supports and specializes in agritourism,” said Governor Eric J. Holcomb. “Agriculture is the backbone of Indiana and I’m excited to see business developments like this pay homage to our heritage while providing endless opportunities for Hoosiers.”
“Over 2.5 million people visit the Grand Park Sports Campus annually,” said Westfield Mayor Andy Cook. “West Fork is a part of our state’s agricultural heritage and now it joins our tourism industry in Westfield. I’m thrilled that we have this partnership for our community.”
West Fork has a bonded primary aging facility (rickhouse) attached to the production facility and restaurant. That’s unusual. image credit: Walter
The $10 million+ development is located on the northeast corner of 191st Street and Horton Road across from Grand Park Sports Campus.
About West Fork Whiskey Co.: Established in 2015, West Fork Whiskey Co. distills and produces high-quality, approachable craft whiskeys, always using 100% Indiana ingredients, grain to glass. The Indianapolis tasting room and distillery is open six days a week offering a full cocktail menu, bottle carryout, tours, and special events. The company’s 30,000 sq. ft. Westfield agritourism facility features an event space, restaurant, production and aging space, a cocktail lounge, and more, and opened to the public in 2022. For more information, please visit www.westforkwhiskey.com.
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