Copperworks reveals ‘major’ expansion plans

American spirits producer Copperworks Distilling has revealed a three-phase expansion plan, which includes building a new distillery that will increase capacity ten-fold.

The initial phase of the project is already under way. It includes creating new food and bar programmes for Copperworks’ restaurants in Kenmore, Washington.

The food selection is being put together by Nick Jarvis, a 20-year veteran of the hospitality and restaurant industry.

Meanwhile, Chris Elford, Seattle bar owner (Tradewinds Tavern and Navy Strength) is curating the venue’s drinks list, which will rotate around seasonal cocktails focused on each of Copperworks’ spirits: whiskeys, gins and vodkas.

The second phase of the upgrade will be expanding the distillery’s downtown Seattle location to include a space next door to the existing production site and tasting room.

The extension will add 7,000 square feet of bar, restaurant, event and educational space to the existing facility, taking the daily visitor capacity from 150 to 575 guests.

For phase three, Copperworks will build a new production facility.

Jason Parker, co-founder and president of Copperworks Distilling, said: “Simply put – our devoted fans are thirsty for more. After eight years in operation, we are overflowing with opportunities.

“Our customers want craft cocktails and food offerings and to host large private events at Copperworks, but our current space is insufficient to meet the demand.

“We aren’t even able to produce enough whiskey to meet customer demand due to limited space in our existing distillery.”

Individuals can invest in the company as it launches its expansion plans. More details can be found on Copperworks’ Start Engine crowdfunding page. At the time of writing, Copperworks had raised US$1,294,645.

Jeff Kanof, co-owner and vice-president, added: “We’ve received hundreds of messages from whisky lovers across the country who have tasted and enjoyed Copperworks.

“Our expansion allows us to bring Copperworks’ spirits to as many customers as possible in the Pacific Northwest, US, and beyond. And, for those that have always wanted to invest in a distillery, bar, or restaurant, we’re serving them up an opportunity of a lifetime – in one batch.”