Tom's Town Distilling Co.
History of Tom’s Town Distilling Co.
Origins and Inspiration
Tom’s Town Distilling Co., based in Kansas City, draws its inspiration from the city’s notorious past during the Prohibition era. The distillery is named after Tom Pendergast, a prominent political boss in Kansas City known for his influence and control during the Prohibition period. Pendergast’s rule in the city led to an environment where federal Prohibition laws were largely ignored, allowing for a thriving culture of jazz and speakeasies.
Founding and Development
The founders of Tom’s Town, Steve Revare and David Epstein, have a long history together, stretching back to childhood. Before embarking on their distillery venture, their earliest entrepreneurial effort was a lemonade stand. They were motivated to establish Tom’s Town as a tribute to Kansas City’s unique Prohibition history and to tell this story through the creation of liquor.
Revare and Epstein’s families had historical connections to Tom Pendergast, with Epstein’s grandfather being part of the rival gang to Pendergast’s, and Revare’s great uncle being the District Attorney who played a role in Pendergast’s downfall.
The Distilling Process
Tom’s Town prides itself on its distinctive distilling process, producing a variety of spirits including two gins, a vodka, and two bourbons. Their process involves a blend of traditional and innovative techniques, with attention to unique flavor profiles. For instance, their vodka includes rye from a family farm, and their bourbons undergo special aging processes for distinctive flavors.
Current Status and Achievements
Today, Tom’s Town continues to thrive as a notable distillery in Kansas City. The company has achieved several milestones, including a partnership with the Kansas City Chiefs, becoming the official gin of the NFL team. They have also expanded their offerings with a cocktail scene called KC Concrete Co., located in the basement of their building.
Tours and Community Engagement
Tom’s Town offers tours that provide insights into both their distilling processes and the rich history behind their brand. These tours are a blend of distilling education and historical storytelling, emphasizing the slogan “the people are thirsty,” a nod to Pendergast’s era.
Tom’s Town Distilling Co. is more than just a producer of spirits; it’s a celebration of Kansas City’s unique history during the Prohibition era, intertwined with the legacy of Tom Pendergast. The founders have successfully melded this rich historical backdrop with their passion for quality spirit production, making Tom’s Town a significant player in Kansas City’s vibrant distillery scene.
Awards Won by Tom’s Town Distilling Co.
Eli’s StrongArm Vodka: In 2016, this vodka was awarded a Silver Medal in the Rectified Wheat Vodka category at a spirits competition. The certification was for a Craft Distilled Spirit, highlighting its quality and craftsmanship.
Pendergast’s Royal Gold Bourbon, Tom’s Town Botanical Gin, Tom’s Town Barreled Gin, and Tom’s Town Double Grain Vodka: These spirits have been recognized as award-winning products. Specific details of the awards they received were not specified in the sources I accessed.
Best Craft Vodka Distillery: In 2017, USA Today voted Tom’s Town as the Best Craft Vodka Distillery. This national recognition underscores the distillery’s commitment to producing high-quality vodka.
Tom’s Town Double Oaked Bourbon: Although specific awards for this product were not detailed in the sources, it is part of the distillery’s line of award-winning spirits. This bourbon is known for its unique wood to stave finishing process and has been noted for its smooth and distinctive flavour.
Tom’s Town Distilling Co. Tour Information and Experience
The tour at Tom’s Town Distilling Co. in Kansas City offers a unique blend of historical insight and distilling craftsmanship. Guests are introduced to an experience that combines the rich history of Kansas City during the Prohibition era with the art of spirit-making.
Historical Insight and Distillery Exploration
Upon arrival, visitors embark on a walking tour through the distillery. This segment showcases the areas where Tom’s Town’s spirits are crafted. The tour is both educational and insightful, highlighting the story of Tom Pendergast, the influential figure behind the distillery’s name, and immersing visitors in the captivating history of the Prohibition era.
Tasting Session: Sampling Award-Winning Spirits
A standout feature of the tour is the tasting session. Participants have the opportunity to sample a variety of Tom’s Town’s award-winning spirits, including smooth vodkas, intricate gins, and rich bourbons. This tasting allows for a deeper appreciation of the quality and diversity of the spirits produced.
Interactive Cocktail Classes and Tasting Room Experience
Tom’s Town enhances the tour experience with the addition of cocktail classes. These interactive sessions are ideal for those keen to learn the art of cocktail making using high-quality, artisanal spirits. Furthermore, the distillery features a tasting room where guests can enjoy small plates paired perfectly with their drinks, enriching the overall sensory experience.
Group Accommodation and Booking Advice
The tour is designed to cater to groups, offering an intimate and engaging experience. Advance booking is recommended to ensure availability. Although the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it provides a comprehensive experience for those able to navigate the historic facility’s stairs and walkways.
Flask & Barrel Review of Tom’s Town Distilling Co.
The tour experience at Tom’s Town Distilling Co. in Kansas City is a rich blend of history, distilling craftsmanship, and spirit tasting. Visitors embark on an intriguing journey through the distillery, offering a unique window into both the production process and the fascinating history of Kansas City during the Prohibition era.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted with the opportunity to explore the distillery. This walking tour showcases the actual areas where Tom’s Town’s spirits are crafted, combining an educational experience with an insider’s look into the art of distilling. As part of this exploration, the story of Tom Pendergast, the notorious political boss after whom the distillery is named, is brought to life. This historical narrative sets the stage, immersing visitors in the Prohibition era’s intriguing and sometimes illicit past.
A highlight of the tour is the tasting session. Here, visitors have the chance to sample the award-winning spirits that Tom’s Town is renowned for. This tasting experience allows for a deeper appreciation of the quality and variety of spirits produced, from smooth vodkas to complex gins and rich bourbons.
Tom’s Town also offers cocktail classes, adding an interactive element to the visit. These classes are perfect for those interested in learning the craft of cocktail making using high-quality, artisanal spirits. Additionally, the distillery features a tasting room where guests can enjoy small plates paired thoughtfully with drinks, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
The tour is designed to accommodate groups, with a focus on providing an intimate and engaging experience. It’s advised to book in advance to secure a spot. While the tour is not accessible to wheelchairs, it provides an immersive experience for those who can navigate stairs and walkways of the historic facility.
What To Do Nearby Tom’s Town Distilling Co.
Anton’s Taproom: Just a 0.1-mile walk from Tom’s Town, Anton’s Taproom is a great spot for American cuisine and steaks. It’s a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
Streetcar Grille & Tavern: Also 0.1 miles away, this tavern offers classic American bar and pub food. It’s a great place for a casual dining experience.
Tannin Wine Bar and Kitchen: Located 0.1 miles from Tom’s Town, Tannin Wine Bar and Kitchen serves contemporary American cuisine and has a great selection of wines.
Christopher Elbow Artisanal Chocolates: If you have a sweet tooth, this spot, just 0.2 miles away, is a must-visit for some of the best chocolates in Kansas City.
The Belfry: Another 0.1-mile walk will take you to The Belfry, known for its inviting bar and pub atmosphere.
Extra Virgin: Situated 0.2 miles from Tom’s Town, this restaurant offers a memorable dining experience with its excellent meals.
Baramee Thai Bistro: For those who enjoy Thai cuisine, Baramee Thai Bistro is just 0.2 miles away and is known for its authentic flavors.
Bizz And Weezy: Close by at 0.1 miles, this café is perfect for a quick coffee or a light bite.
Bristol Seafood Grill: Located 0.3 miles from Tom’s Town, this restaurant offers a variety of American dishes and seafood options.
801 Chophouse: Just a 0.3-mile walk, this chophouse is perfect for steak lovers and offers a fine dining experience.
RecordBar: At 0.2 miles distance, RecordBar is a great place to enjoy music and eats.
BRGR Kitchen + Bar: 0.3 miles away, this place is known for great food and service, offering American cuisine and a bar.
Affare: Finally, 0.2 miles from Tom’s Town, Affare serves fantastic German cuisine and is known for its excellent service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Tom’s Town Distilling Co.?
Town Topic Hamburgers Broadway: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. You can contact them on their phone at (816) 842-2298 for reservations. Their address is 2021 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108.
The Rockhill Grille: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. You can contact them on their phone at (816) 389-5800 for reservations. Their address is 2000 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108.
Manny’s Mexican Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. You can contact them on their phone at (816) 474-7696 for reservations. Their address is 207 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108.
What hotels are near Tom’s Town Distilling Co.?
Crowne Plaza Kansas City Downtown, an IHG Hotel: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at (816) 474-6664. Their address is 1301 Wyandotte St, Kansas City, MO 64105.
Holiday Inn Express Kansas City Downtown: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at (816) 474-1000. Their address is 417 E 13th St, Kansas City, MO 64106.
Loews Kansas City Hotel: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at (816) 897-7070. Their address is 1515 Wyandotte St, Kansas City, MO 64108.