Hood River Distillers Announces Strategic Partnership with Captive Spirits Distillers
Two family-owned Pacific Northwest distilleries are joining forces to form a mutually agreeable partnership that supports the growth of Captive Spirits’ signature Big Gin brands and creates more opportunities for the Seattle-based distillery. As one of the leaders in the craft distillery movement, the 82-year-old Hood River Distillers will provide an experienced team to help Captive Spirits navigate its growth and distribution model.
“We are thrilled to announce this pivotal partnership with Hood River Distillers, a Northwest-based, family-owned and family-operated business,” said Ben Capdevielle, distiller and founder of Captive Spirits. “Our grassroots efforts have gotten us to where we are, and we are honored to have the support of the Hood River Distillers team to help with our continued growth and the support of Big Gin in markets in the US and beyond."
With over 100 employees nationally, Hood River Distillers has the staff and infrastructure to help Captive Spirits reach its next phase of growth. Currently Captive Spirits produces 7,500 six-bottle cases, and this is expected to increase when the new distillery begins operation this fall. The new facility will be located in the Ballard shipyard with room for an additional still and a new tasting room.
“Our two companies have similar cultures and roots in the Pacific Northwest,” said Ron Dodge, President and CEO of Hood River Distillers. “We are excited to support Big Gin with our decades of knowledge and national opportunities for sourcing and distribution. Hood River Distillers received the first distiller’s license in 1934, and we are proud to continue growing and providing support for regional brands.”
Capdevielle launched Captive Spirits in 2012 after years spent behind the bar in Seattle and learning about distilling from his father and grandfather. “Distilling was a multigenerational bond, and I took my passion for the hobby and turned it into a business,” he said. “Now, with Hood River Distillers guiding us, I am confident that we will continue to grow and produce even more high-quality gin.”
