For those in a hurry
- George Washington owned a whiskey distillery and produced about 11,000 gallons of liquor per year.
- His distillery was one of the largest in America at its time, with five copper pot stills and a stone building.
- He started distilling in 1797, after his Scottish farm manager James Anderson convinced him of its profitability.
- He sold his whiskey to local farmers, merchants, and even his own presidential household.
- His whiskey was made of 60% rye, 35% corn, and 5% malted barley, and had a strong and fiery taste.
- You can visit his reconstructed distillery and gristmill at Mount Vernon today, and buy his whiskey online or at the gift shop.
Unveiling George Washington’s Whiskey Venture
Beyond his esteemed role as the first President of the United States, George Washington left a lesser-known but equally significant legacy – his whiskey distillery. Located at his iconic Mount Vernon estate in Virginia, this distillery was a testament to Washington’s entrepreneurial spirit and diverse interests.
A Profitable Enterprise
Operating during the late 18th century, George Washington’s whiskey distillery proved to be a highly profitable venture. Producing an impressive 11,000 gallons of liquor each year, the distillery played a crucial role in contributing to Washington’s financial success.
Quality and Craftsmanship
The whiskey produced at Mount Vernon’s distillery was renowned for its high quality. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the whiskey earned accolades from local and international consumers alike.
Washington’s Hands-On Approach
George Washington was actively involved in the operation of the whiskey distillery. With a hands-on approach, he oversaw the production process, ensuring the whiskey’s excellence.
The Art of Whiskey-Making
Whiskey production during the late 18th century was an art that required skilled craftsmanship. From selecting the finest grains to the aging process, every step contributed to the creation of a superior product.
Exporting a Taste of America
Approximately 5% of the whiskey’s sales were exported to other countries, spreading the taste of America to the international community.
A Living Museum
Today, George Washington’s whiskey distillery stands as a living museum, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and witness the process of whiskey-making in the late 1700s.
Honoring Washington’s Legacy
As we celebrate George Washington’s contributions to American history, his whiskey distillery stands as a unique testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and enduring legacy. A toast to history and the Father of Our Country!
Cheers to that!
