Empire State Development (ESD) announced the grand opening of the more than $21 million Klocke Estate soil-to-glass brandy distillery, tasting room and event space on 160-acres of property in Claverack, Columbia County. The company is growing several varieties of apples and grapes specifically chosen and cultivated to make high quality brandy. The 12,000 square foot distillery and hospitality venue provides a vibrant and engaging space with a full bar, dining, library lounge, private tasting salon and outdoor patio spaces to enjoy. The world class offerings to include elevated & immersive tasting, tours and events that will highlight the artisanal craft and spirit of the Capital Region and the upper Hudson Valley.
ESD President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Klocke Estate distillery and tasting room is a great example of the investments being made by New York State’s craft beverage producers that are creating jobs, supporting our farms, welcoming tourists and growing our regional economies. ESD is proud to grow the agritourism sector in New York State which creates jobs and investment across the state.”
John Frishkopf, Klocke Estate Founder and CEO, said, “The ways we grow our apples and grapes, care for our land, distill and age our spirits, and apply our craft create a cycle of enrichment, sustainability, respect, and quality. It is my hope that Klocke Estate will not only define a new category of American Brandy in the Hudson Valley but that we will create an experiential destination and a legacy of excellence to transcend generations, positioning Klocke as a leader in the world of extraordinary spirits and elevated hospitality.”
Klocke Estate focuses on a sustainable and organic approach to the land, with 60 of the 160 acres carefully cultivated using regenerative farming methods. The distillery promotes biodiversity by planting beneficial plants that provide pollinator habitats and create a balanced ecosystem. Klocke Estate will offer limited releases of unaged brandy, but is primarily maturing its product in French Limousin oak barrels. The company is also planning to distribute brandy that will be bottled and released as it matures over time. Klocke has also developed a red and white vermouth for its launch, available exclusively at the distillery until it can be distributed more widely.
Empire State Development is supporting this project with a $125,000 capital grant and up to $400,000 in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program Tax Credits in exchange for the creation of 26 jobs. Additionally, Klocke Estate was awarded a $275,000 Market New York grant from I LOVE NY to support special events at the distillery aimed at promoting and generating regional tourism.
Empire State Development Vice President and Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said, “The Hudson Valley is world-renowned for its scenic vistas, natural beauty, and culinary and craft beverage offerings, and the new Klocke Estate distillery offers visitors a taste of each. I LOVE NY looks forward to promoting the agritourism and craft beverage experiences available at Klocke Estates as part of the unparalleled opportunities in the region that make it so easy to love New York.”
