The history of Smith Bowman Distillery is a fascinating journey that spans nearly a century. It all began in 1927 when A. Smith Bowman established a dairy and granary on the sprawling Sunset Hills estate in Virginia. Little did he know that this venture would eventually lead to the creation of the oldest operating distillery in the state.
During the era of Prohibition, the distillation of alcoholic beverages was prohibited. However, after the repeal of Prohibition in Virginia, the grains that were originally used for the dairy and granary operations found a new purpose – distilling spirits. This marked the beginning of Smith Bowman's foray into the world of distillation.
Over the years, the distillery underwent several transformations and expansions. In the 1950s, Smith Bowman's son, Truman, took over the family business and introduced a range of spirits, including vodka and gin. The distillery continued to flourish under Truman's leadership, gaining a reputation for producing high-quality and distinctively flavored spirits.
In the 1980s, the distillery faced a significant challenge when the Sunset Hills estate was sold for development purposes. However, the Bowman family's commitment to their craft remained unwavering. They relocated the distillery to a new site in Fredericksburg, Virginia, ensuring the continuation of their distillation legacy.
Smith Bowman Distillery underwent further expansion and modernization in the following years. The distillery's commitment to quality and craftsmanship was recognized when it was named the American Distilling Institute's Distillery of the Year in 2016. This accolade is a testament to the dedication and passion that the Bowman family has poured into their distillery for generations.
Today, Smith Bowman Distillery stands as a testament to the rich history of distillation in Virginia. It continues to produce a wide range of award-winning spirits, including bourbon, whiskey, and rum. The distillery's products are crafted using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each bottle embodies the spirit of Virginia.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of sampling the spirits produced by Smith Bowman Distillery. The depth of flavor, smoothness, and complexity of their bourbons and whiskeys are truly remarkable. Each sip tells a story, showcasing the expertise and craftsmanship that has been honed over generations.
One of my personal favorites from Smith Bowman is their Abraham Bowman Limited Edition series. These small-batch releases showcase the distillery's creativity and willingness to push boundaries. From unique mash bills to innovative aging techniques, each expression in this series is a testament to the distillery's commitment to innovation and excellence.
The history of Smith Bowman Distillery is one that is steeped in tradition, resilience, and passion. From its humble beginnings on the Sunset Hills estate to its current status as the oldest operating distillery in Virginia, it has consistently produced exceptional spirits that embody the spirit of the region. The Bowman family's dedication to their craft and their unwavering commitment to quality have made Smith Bowman Distillery a true gem in the world of distillation.