Weston, Mo. – Nestled in the heart of Platte County, the Holladay Distillery stands as the oldest continuously operating distillery west of the Mississippi River. Visitors stepping inside are immediately struck by the sense of history that permeates the original stone walls and the spring that has fed the bourbon‑making process for more than 170 years.
Historic spring anchors the operation
Audrey Sisco, marketing communications manager for Holladay, points to a small pool of water that “was officially documented by Lewis and Clark in 1804.” The limestone spring, a hallmark of Kentucky‑style bourbon production, inspired founder Ben Holladay, a Kentucky native, to establish the distillery before the Civil War. “Seeing a limestone spring meant bourbon,” Sisco explains, underscoring the deep connection between the water source and the spirit’s character.
Continuity through turbulent times
Matt Jacquinot, national on‑premise specialist, notes that the distillery survived Prohibition by producing “medicinal whiskey one month out of the year,” a modest operation that kept the lights on and the barrels aging. “It feels like so long ago, almost like a time you could never imagine,” he adds, reflecting on the resilience of the business.
Balancing tradition with modern advances
Master distiller Kyle Merklein emphasizes that while the core elements—water, rickhouse, and barrel placement—remain unchanged, the distillery is not stuck in the past. “It’s a fun thing where we can thread that needle, bringing in newer technology and advancements while still doing something that has been done in America for over 200 years,” he says. This blend of heritage and innovation allows Holladay to meet contemporary market demands without sacrificing the craftsmanship that defines its bourbon.
Community impact and future outlook
The distillery’s continued operation contributes to Weston’s local economy, drawing tourists and bourbon enthusiasts to the historic downtown area. Residents appreciate the sense of pride that comes from preserving a piece of American industrial heritage. “It’s a really amazing thing to be a small part of that history and to keep it going,” Merklein remarks, highlighting the personal fulfillment felt by the staff.
As the distillery looks ahead, plans include modest expansions of tasting rooms and educational tours, all designed to showcase the unique spring water and the centuries‑old methods that give Holladay bourbon its distinctive flavor. The commitment to both preservation and progress ensures that the legacy of this historic site will endure for future generations of Missouri families and bourbon lovers alike.
Original reporting: KSHB 41 Kansas City (local) — read the source article.
