SHERIDAN - A 12-year dream to produce premium distilled spirits right here in Indiana will finally come true this summer for longtime friends Steve Specht, Greg Albershardt and Mark Schilling.

The doors of the trio's business venture, Hunt Club Distillery, will be opening on July 1. Awaiting curious visitors is not only an up-close look at the distilling process of gin, vodka and cordials but a chance to shop for unique gifts and antiques.

Hunt Club Distillery is nestled in a Hoosier poplar barn in Sheridan, right on Indiana 47.

Indiana law prohibits new distilleries from selling their spirits directly to consumers, so visitors won't be able to buy or sample Hunt Club's initial offerings - Fourth Monkey Vodka, Zeppelin Gin or Monkey Shine (the distillery's version of moonshine) - at the facility.

But the Hunt Club "experience" is so much more than adult beverages. Craft-made vanillas, produced from vanilla beans from exotic locales including Madagascar and Tonga - mixed with Hunt Club's premium distilled spirits will be available for sampling and purchase.

The gift shop and antique store will feature official distillery-licensed collectibles as well as an eclectic swath of unique antiques, gifts and gently used books. Handmade cigars will be available as well as alcohol-and-smoking related merchandise and tasteful pin ups. Consignment sales will be added in the near future.

Future additions to the initial distilled-spirit product line include blackberry cordial produced with hand-picked organic berries, amaretto and a high proof alcohol line. Hunt Club Distillery products will be available this fall at liquor retailers throughout the country.

Hunt Club Distillery is at 3774 W. Ind. 47, Sheridan. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
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