Okay, this is old news.

But in my defense–Covid. And during this Covid crap, I missed this press release. That said, I think it still warrants some coverage from me… even though it happened March 2, especially since I am tasting Green Hat Rye against an MGP-distilled rye tonight.

 MGP Ingredients acquired New Columbia Distillers LLC, based in Washington, D.C., which produces and markets Green Hat Gin and Green Hat Rye. The distillery and its retail operations will continue to operate with the current management team, and its popular range of Green Hat Gin styles will be phased into expanded distribution as a new addition to MGP’s portfolio.

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

New Columbia Distillers LLC (1832 Fenwick St. NE) was founded in 2011 in the Ivy City neighborhood of Washington, D.C. Housed in an historic warehouse, New Columbia Distillers was the first distillery licensed in D.C. after Prohibition, and offers on-site production as well as a tasting room, bar and gin garden. Green Hat Gin is named for local bootlegger, George Cassiday, who was known for his signature green fedora. During Prohibition, Cassiday operated an illicit distribution center out of the House and Senate Office Buildings, where he supplied bootleg spirits to senators, congressmen and their staffs. He became an outspoken critic of Prohibition until its repeal. 

MGP’s portfolio includes TILL American Wheat Vodka, George Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Remus Repeal Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Rossville Union Straight Rye Whiskey and Eight & Sand Blended Bourbon Whiskey. Products are available in Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Montana, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin, and District of Columbia (DC).