Tom’s Town Distilling Co. Revives Kansas City’s Rich History of Craft Spirits
In the heart of Kansas City, a company by the name of Tom’s Town Distilling Co. is carrying forward the city’s rich legacy of crafting high-quality spirits, drawing inspiration from the history of its namesake, the powerful political boss, Tom Pendergast.
Riding the Wave of the Prohibition Era
During the Prohibition era, Kansas City was famously known as “Tom’s Town,” largely due to the influence of the Pendergast machine that allowed the city to thrive irrespective of the alcohol regulations. Establishments continued pouring drinks, jazz music filled the air, and the city experienced booming nightlife.
Inspired by this era of rebellion and resilience, Tom’s Town Distilling Co. emerged as a testament to the spirit(grains intended) of Kansas City. Under the guidance of its owners – the visionary duo of David Epstein and Steve Revare – Tom’s Town sought to reinterpret the city’s golden era through exceptional blends of gin, vodka, and bourbon.
From Grain to Glass
Adopting a ‘grain to glass’ concept, the distilling process that this company follows is both diligent and intricate. Utilizing local grains and botanicals, the distillery takes pride in its process, which combines state-of-the-art technology with traditional techniques. The end product – a line of craft spirits that encapsulates the bold spirit of 1920’s Kansas City.
Among the top favorites are Tom’s Town Double Oaked Bourbon, Pendergast’s Royal Gold Bourbon, and McElroy’s Corruption Gin. These award-winning spirits, alongside the company’s periodic limited-offer blends, have helped solidify Tom’s Town’s reputation in the spirits industry.
Stepping into Tom’s Town
The experience at Tom’s Town Distilling Co.space is an interpretation of the vibrant nightlife of Kansas City during the Prohibition era. The swanky art deco interior, the pungent scent of aging spirits, and the soothing strains of jazz music combine to transport patrons back in time.
Visitors can go for guided tours where they get a glimpse of the distilling process, view the vintage copper still machine, learn about the stor
