MGP brand logo with green leaves design

Midwest Grain Products (MGP)

Region
  • USA, Indiana
Awards
  • Rossville Union Master Crafted Straight Rye Whiskey, Remus Repeal Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey Series IV, George Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Website
  • https://www.mgpingredients.com/
Phone Number
  • 800.255.0302
Address
  • 100 Commercial Street, P.O. Box 130, Atchison, Kansas 66002

Historic Seagram distillery building with MGP welcome sign.

History of MGP

Founding and Early Years (1941-2011)

MGP Distillery’s journey began in 1941 when Cloud L. Cray, Sr. founded the company as Midwest Grain Products, Inc. Originally operating an industrial alcohol distillery in Atchison, Kansas, MGP became a significant supplier of neutral alcohol during World War II. Its focus on quality and innovation in distillation was evident from the start.

The Acquisition of Luxco Inc. (2021)

In a strategic move to expand its portfolio, MGP Ingredients acquired Luxco Inc. in April 2021. This acquisition added a diverse array of branded spirits to MGP’s offerings, marking a significant chapter in the company’s history and reflecting its commitment to growth and diversification in the spirits industry.

Ross & Squibb Distillery: A Legacy Reborn

The Ross & Squibb Distillery, integral to MGP’s story, dates back to 1847. Originally the Rossville Union Distillery, it was purchased by Seagram in 1933. Over the years, the distillery changed hands several times, becoming part of Pernod Ricard and later Lawrenceburg Distillers Indiana (LDI) under CL Financial. 

In 2011, MGP Ingredients acquired the distillery, adding to its whiskey production capabilities. The Ross & Squibb name was restored in 2021 to honor this rich history.

MGP’s Product Portfolio and Influence

MGP is renowned for producing a variety of spirits, including whiskeys, ryes, bourbons, gins, and vodkas. The distillery has eight whiskey brands, including George Remus bourbon and Rossville Union rye. 

It is particularly noted for its straight rye whiskey with a 95% rye mash bill, used by various brands like Angel’s Envy, Bulleit Rye, and Templeton Rye. MGP also produces bourbon whiskey sold under different brand names, like the Cougar Bourbon brand in Australia. In 2013, MGP expanded its offerings with six additional mash bills for rye, malt, wheat, and bourbon whiskey.

Unique Approach to Whiskey Maturation

MGP’s whiskey maturation process is akin to the Scottish method, where the alcohol percentage decreases over time, resulting in mellower whiskey. Their rickhouses, distinct from typical Kentucky practice, are designed for uniform aging across all barrel locations.

MGP’s Continued Impact

Today, MGP continues to be a significant player in the spirits industry, not just through its own brands but also by supplying premium distilled solutions to other producers. The distillery’s history is interwoven with the broader narrative of American distilling, contributing significantly to the sector’s growth and evolution.

Awards Won by MGP

George Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey: This high-rye blend of bourbon whiskies, aged over four years, received a Gold Medal. It’s known for its hint of vanilla, maple aroma, and a characteristic rye flavor.

Remus Repeal Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey Series IV: This limited annual release from the George Remus family not only won a Gold Medal but also was honored with the “Best in Class” recognition.

Rossville Union Master Crafted Straight Rye Whiskey: This rye whiskey, representing nearly two centuries of Lawrenceburg’s distilling expertise, also earned a Gold Medal. It offers a balance of sweet oak with rye spice, aged at least four years.

MGP Tour Information and Experience

Historical Overview of MGP and Lawrenceburg

The tour begins with an introduction to the distillery’s history, established in 1847, and the town of Lawrenceburg, Indiana, known as “Whiskey City.” This part of the tour emphasizes the distillery’s long-standing tradition in whiskey production.

Exploration of Production Processes

Visitors are shown the large fermentation tanks where the whiskey-making process begins. This offers insight into the scale and the technicalities of whiskey production at MGP.

Visit to the Rack House

The tour includes a visit to the Rack House, where guests can witness the aging process of whiskey, a crucial step in developing the whiskey’s flavor profile.

Control Room Demonstration

A highlight of the tour is the high-tech control room, showcasing the modern and sophisticated approach MGP employs in monitoring and managing the distillation process.

Tasting of MGP’s Whiskey Brands

The tour concludes with a tasting session of MGP’s own whiskey brands, allowing visitors to appreciate the quality and flavor of spirits produced by the distillery.

Flask & Barrel Review of MGP

I recently toured MGP Distillery and, as a seasoned whiskey collector, I’ve got to say, it was a standout experience, meriting a solid 4.7 out of 5.

The place’s rich history, dating back to 1847 in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, really set the tone. Being on the grounds where so many iconic whiskeys have been crafted was surreal. The highlight for me was seeing their massive fermentation tanks and the Rack House – the scent of aging whiskey there was unforgettable.

Their use of the “Mother Yeast” from the Seagrams era added a touch of authenticity to the process. The tech in the control room was impressive, like something out of a sci-fi movie!

Ending the tour with a tasting of their George Remus Bourbon and the Remus Repeal Reserve was the perfect capstone. MGP may be more behind the scenes in the whiskey world, but its influence and quality are unmistakable.

What To Do Nearby MGP

After your visit to MGP Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, there are several nearby attractions to check out.

  • For outdoor enthusiasts, Perfect North Slopes offers ski and snowboarding opportunities. If you’re into gambling, Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg could be a fun stop.
  • For a more relaxing experience, The Barn Winery is a great place to enjoy some local wines.
  • The area also has several parks, like Arch Street Park and Todd Creech Park, perfect for a stroll or a family picnic.
  • For those interested in local shopping, the Tri-state Antique Market and Hummingbird Boutique could be delightful.
    These attractions provide various activities for different interests and are conveniently located within the Lawrenceburg area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near MGP?

Steak ‘n Shake: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +18125394154. Their address is 861 W Eads Pkwy, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025, United States.

Howie’s Diner: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +18125370313. Their address is 1049 E Eads Pkwy, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025, United States.

Zorbas Greek Restaurant Indiana: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +18125379888. Their address is 1093 W Eads Pkwy, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025, United States.

What hotels are near MGP?

DoubleTree by Hilton Lawrenceburg: This hotel has a rating of 4.5. For reservations, contact them at +18125398888 and their address is 51 Walnut St, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025, United States.

Comfort Inn: With an 4.2 rating, this hotel provides a cozy stay. Contact number is +1 812 539 3600 and address is 1610 Flossie Drive, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025, United States.

Hollywood Casino & Hotel: This hotel has a 4.3 (Good) rating. Their contact number is +1 888 274 6797 and the address is 777 Hollywood Boulevard, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025, United States