California whiskey company Rod & Hammer’s announced a new partnership with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (SGWS) in their home market.

This strategic move is set to amplify the brand’s reach, bringing the craft whiskey to up to 40,000 retail outlets across the state. Rod & Hammer’s, which is already featured in key chains such as Raley’s, Albertsons/Vons/Pavilions, Safeway, Trader Joe’s, Savemart, Lucky’s, BevMo, Total Wine, and more, will look to continue expansion with the support of their new distribution partner, SGWS. 

Crafted by California surfer Rodney “Rod” Cegelski and Aussie jackaroo Hamish “Hammer” Marshall, the brand has been making big waves in the whiskey category  since 2019. Rod & Hammer’s lineup, including their double gold-winning Cask Rye and other award-winning whiskeys, has gained numerous accolades, including being named one of Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Spirits of 2020.

Located just six miles off the central coast, the distillery ages its whiskey in air-dried oak barrels, similar to the wineries in the area, allowing the coastal climate to impart its unique flavor over the years. But what truly sets Rod & Hammer apart is its use of purified Pacific Ocean water to cut its whiskey, capturing the soul of the West Coast in every bottle.

Now, with the help of Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, these exceptional spirits that were once exclusive to the Central Coast, will now be available all across California.

“We’re thrilled to ride this wave with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits,” Cegelski said in a news release. “We’re so stoked with the incredible support from whiskey enthusiasts all over and were excited to be able to offer our outstanding whiskey to everyone throughout the beautiful state of California.”

SGWS will begin distributing Rod & Hammer’s bottled whiskey and ready to serve bottled cocktails throughout the California footprint starting August, 2024, while the brand’s thriving canned cocktail (RTD) business will remain with its network of beer wholesalers.

For more information about Rod & Hammer’s and its award-winning spirits and where to find near you, visit the distillery’s website.

Read more: Rod & Hammer’s Unveil ‘Whiskey Survival Kit’

About Rod & Hammer’s

Rod & Hammer’s is a California-based whiskey distillery that embodies the free-spirited essence of the Golden State. With a unique surfer meets cowboy vibe, the brand is committed to crafting high-quality spirits that capture the diverse flavors and lifestyle of California. The lineup of California Whiskeys and canned cocktails have garnered numerous accolades, including being named one of Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Spirits of 2020, and are available in stores throughout California.

For more information, visit https://rodandhammer.com/.