Hillrock Estate Distillery

I would have given you five star had anybody been in there when we walked in. We waited a good 10-15 minutes around, but nobody ever showed up. I was looking to buy a couple bottles to take back to North Carolina with me. I was going to leave the money on the bar And take a bottle, but I felt like that might have been stealing, even though I left the money. Would’ve definitely liked to hear some history behind your distillery and grabbed a couple bottles seeing how I grew up in Ancram. It was during operating hours, so I’m not sure where anybody was. Overall, it looks like a nice place. There were two men in the back of the yard working, but they never looked our way.

Unbelievable tour! Highly recommended asking for Alex, if he's available, to be your tour guide. Exceptional service, very knowledgeable, and answered all questions with ease. Highly recommended booking the "Barrel Proof Whiskey Tasting Tour". Our thanks go out to Alex and all the Hillrock staff members we met, we will definitely be returning.

Excellent distillery in upstate New York. One of the most fun whisky experiences I’ve ever done. I did the whisky tasting experience and it was fantastic. I also did the tour of the estate and learned about the process of making whisky on this beautiful New York state estate. I highly recommend it for whisky aficionados and people new to whisky.

Such a special spot with an incredible story. The care with which the owners have restored the buildings and pursued traditional methods of whiskey-making is really inspiring. It’s a beautiful property where you can tour the grounds and taste several types. If you’re in the area, you should definitely swing by!

Not sure what is more stunning… the whisky or the views? An amazing experience that everyone should see (and taste) for themselves!

Hillrock provided the best tour and tasting I have ever had at a distillery or winery. I felt like I should have paid more for the experience! The tour gave an exceptional overview of the production and distillation process with additional insights into the uniqueness of being an estate distillery. The story of the land and vision for the future of their whiskeys were so exciting and compelling. The tasting was detailed without being overwhelming or stuffy and offered plenty of space and time to explore their array of bourbon, rye, and single malt. I cannot recommend it highly enough!

Totally recommend a visit! I’ve never done anything like this before. The property is gorgeous and the buildings have a historic feel. Our guide Danny was very knowledgeable and answered all our questions. I’ve been on tours where things are staged just for the tour. This wasn’t the case. We got to see the actual processes in action and actually saw the staff and owners actively working as we passed through. Our tour concluded with a tasting. There was an option to purchase tastings with charcuterie and a high proof bourbon. We did the basic tasting and were very happy with it. For $28 per person it included 3 bourbons, 1 rye, 1 single malt; and light mix of almonds, craisins, dried peaches, and crackers. My boyfriend and I expected we’d go home with a bottle of bourbon, but ended up liking the rye the best and purchased a bottle! The only critique I have is that the website is tough to use on a mobile device. With some trial and error I was able to figure it out and make a booking. This place is a must do for anyone visiting the Hudson Valley!

I've been to many distilleries across the country and throughout the Carribean and this was one of if not the best Estate Distillery visit to date. Doug was such an outstanding host. A very special place producing some of the best bourbons and rye whiskies on the market today.

I had heard so many great things about their whisky and the tour itself and the reality lived up to the hype! We arrived early for our tour, so I was given a bourbon, water and snacks for my wife and I while we waited. It was a wonderful start to the day sitting on the patio enjoying the whisky and enjoying the beautiful location. I've toured many distilleries in the US and Scotland and this was one of the best. Informative, relaxed, it was great. We thoroughly enjoyed the tasting lineup as well as a few extra pours. We left with a few bottles and I'll be sharing mine with others soon. Nothing but praise for all involved!

The tour was informative and interesting. The property was beautiful. The staff was friendly and the drinks and food were delicious. Highly recommended.

An amazing distillery in the Hudson valley that taking a unique approach to the production process of high end whiskey.

Incredibly personal tour! We learned so much and were amazed to learn about the quality behind the product. The staff were friendly and tailored all to our tastes and curiosity. Can't wait to visit again and buy more of what you can only get there.

Doug did a great job explaining the background of the distillery and detailing the process of how their products are carefully and precisely made. Everyone was friendly and accommodating and the tasting was a wonderful experience

Our tour presenter, Patrick, was very knowledgeable. He patiently and thoroughly answered our plethora of questions about the Hillrock Estate, the process from grain to finished beverage and so much more. Our tour was intimate, we met the distillers and the blending master, tasted a spirit drawn directly from the barrel using a "thief". What a pleasurable way to spend the afternoon, enjoying delicious bourbon!

I visited Hillrock after going apple picking at Fishkill Farms, and we had a great time. Showed up a little before 3pm, walked around to see some things, and started the tour around 3pm. You get to see various parts of the distillery, learn a little bit of history about the estate, then get to consume delicious whiskey. This place is fantastic, well worth the trip and visit, and overall, worth visiting. Omar was absolutely great, and would highly recommend utilizing his friendliness and knowledge while on tour or tasting.

We came here before they started charging for tastings. The bourbons and ryes were all delicious! The only reason not to give 5 stars was that we felt too much pressure to buy a bottle their service was pushy and their bottles are not cheap. Don't get me wrong, they make some really really good stuff and worth it if you want to buy something. Keep in mind what you pay for a bottle at the distillery is pretty much the same price you'll pay anywhere that sells their bourbons or ryes so don't let them pressure you. Maybe now that they're charging for the tasting they're not so pushy. The ambiance is very nice and clean but it did feel a bit pretentious and uppity. Wine snobs who also like bourbon will love it here. Be prepared that you will be treated like you know nothing about bourbon and that theirs is the best. If a friend were to poor me a glass of their bourbon or rye I'd love it and enjoy it. But for me I'd rather spend my money somewhere else and I won't be going back to visit.

We had a great tour of this impressive operation- it was succinct and well organized. The tasting was excellent, accompanied by a wonderful charcuterie board put together with local producer's items. Finally, the whiskey is great!

Dont hesitate on taking a trip to this wonderful distillery. They are a bit off the beaten path but well worth the trip. The facility is a testimony to what can be accomplished when a person with a passion for their craft brings their dream to life. Our husband and wife hosts were warm and happy to engage us in conversation regarding the history of the Distillery and how they produce the award winning products that showcase their dedication to their craft. Finally, how I could I leave without a few bottles of their fine bourbon. I highly recommend making this a destination where you can enjoy a tour, sample their selections, enjoy a light snack, learn about the art of distilling spirits and finally purchase their products which will find a home on the top shelf of my home bar.

First time for going to a distillery. Tim was our guide and after innumerable wine tours and many breweries, he knew more about whisky than I thought possible. He explained patiently the provenance of the casks as well all the nuances of what to look for in a great whisky. Clearly worth the trip. Other couples there who had been on bourbon tours were impressed by the level of detail and knowledge. Kudos to Tim and his team. The bourbon and the varieties are world class.

I am a very long time connoisseur and collector of single malt Scotch whisky and starting to experiment Bourbon and Whiskey for over 2 years now.... Still in my very young stages of Bourbon, I came with family to this Distillery which absolutely surprised me!!! These people have the passion, knowledge and will to make things right.... I am absolutely impressed.... We had a very professional tour of a small "boutique" sized distillery full of love!!! This drives the "juice" they produce to be world class!!!! I had never heard of them and for sure will remain in my collection and drink stash.... They are producing Bourbon of very good quality in Solera (cascade barreling ) style of great quality... very good nose and taste!! Have some cask strengths that are amazing.... They also experience with rye and malt to make their single malt.... Had to buy a rye single malt for my collection that I do not have!!! Wuau.... This is something. Staff was ALL very amicable, knowledgeable and going that extra mile to make this place one I fell in live with.... i will cherish this experience and talk about it in my tastings from now on.... The place is elegant, clean, beautiful and welcoming.... Will come back again hopefully soon!!! Cheers and thats Hillrock!

The service at Hillrock was exceptional. The experience was very educational. The staff was very accommodating. The space was very clean and the tasting was awesome along with the wonderful charcuterie board. We spent over 3 hours at the distillery because we were enjoying ourselves! I have recommended Hillrock to several people.

The property, service and product at the Hillrock Distillery are one of a kind! I have done the tour twice and it's a great experience. Douglas is an entertaining, knowledgeable and friendly tour guide. The charcuterie tray is substantial and features locally farmed cheeses. The distillery is field to glass - meaning everything about the distillation of their whiskey is done on site. Rye literally grows in the fields that surround the distillery. I would highly recommend a visit, and if you have time the tour to both locals and out of town visitors.

Some of the best whiskies I've ever had. Great tour and tasting right from the barrels...such a good experience!

Outstanding experience with outstanding people. Great time there. Will absolutely be returning to hillrock

Mixed feelings. Vanity project for wealthy banker. Beautiful piece of property. The tour was extremely interesting, we came to it knowing nothing about brewing bourbon, rye or scotch. It's clear that real thought and money has been spent to create a special product. The con: We bought the most expensive tour option, that was clearly a mistake. The production facilities are tiny so everyone is clearly getting the exact same tour. Our tasting consisted of six pre-poured samples set out as a flight. Our guide went through them quickly. I think for such an expensive cost, the samples should be poured one at a time, tasted and discussed, perhaps tried individually straight and the with water. It was NOT a specialized or individualized experience. So, worth doing but don't overpay like we did.

First time going to a distillery. Douglas was our guide. I enjoyed him explaining the Solera process and specifics of the Hillrock method of producing Bourbon. We met Tim as well. They are passionate about their Bourbon, and rightly so. Finishing the tour with bourbon sampling and delicious charcuterie was a perfect finish.

Yes! If you have any interest in Whiskey then go check out Hillrock. The tour was surprising and our guide was knowledgeable and interesting. There is very little walking but there are some narrow spaces and stairs on the tour. The whiskey products were excellent and the charcuterie was delicious. I would highly recommend.

The bourbon was incredible. The staff is super friendly and the pour was generous. Can't wait to go back!

My husband and I loved our visit here. I am currently pregnant and still enjoyed the tour and the overall grounds. Our tour guide plus other staff members were knowledgeable about the whiskey and made the tour fun and interesting. My husband enjoyed the tasting and the little tray of trail mix they provided with the tasting was fantastic. It's way more fun to do a tasting with little snacks as a chaser or palate cleanser so it made us want to purchase more whiskey. The area itself is beautiful and they let us walk around once everything was over. Definitely recommend a stop here when in the area.

What an amazing place for some whiskey tasting if you like whiskey. Relaxing place, great location, great drinking!

My husband and I visited Hillrock on July 4th and had a lovely experience. Our tour guide Adam was very informative, accommodating and friendly as we knew nothing about bourbon. The bourbon was very tasty. These folks are definitely very passionate about their product and it shows. Overall worth visiting!

This place is in the middle of "scenic nowhere," and if you blink, you might miss it, so definitely do not blink! The folks here know and love what they're doing, and it was a pleasure to do tastings here as well as converse. I came here specifically for their solera aged bourbon, which is finished in sherry casks. They also have a bourbon finished in Cab Sav casks. These were, in a word, fantastic. Their ryes they use are 100% grown in New York. These have a slightly sweet flavor and sticky texture and can almost be served as as dessert beverage. The majority of their beverages are NOT peaty, which matters to some folks. Tastings are $20, but that is refunded if you make a purchase. If you don't wish to make the drive to the distillery and/or pay for tastings, you can also find their products at larger liquor stores in Dutchess County. But you should go there at least once and enjoy the experience.

An amazing tour for an amazing Whiskey. My friends and I have been up there twice from Brooklyn and have had a blast both times. Great whiskey, tasty snacks, kind and smart team there, what more can you ask for?

This is a great excursion, amazing spirits, beautiful farm. Engaged and interesting employees who are passionate and ready to teach you about distilling.

I love trying different types of bourbons and came across this at a local liquor store in Poughkeepsie. was a bit surprised at the $150 price tag but figured why not give it a shot. sorry to say it literally tasted like lighter fluid....it had way to much smoke for what I believe was 5.5 yrs old. others may like it so please try it but it just wasn't for me.

Our tour with Doug was fabulous and the tasting was equally as wonderful. The bourbons, whiskey and rye were delicious. It was well worth the drive and we will be back soon!

Great tour and tasting at Hillrock. We learned a lot (Omar was a great guide!), but the tour wasn't too long and was the perfect balance of information to actual tasting. We selected the charcuterie tasting option and sat on the back patio. It was perfect weather and we had a wonderful time. Perfect whether you're a whiskey aficionado or novice. We will definitely come back whenever we're in Hudson Valley.

Would 100% go again and have already recommended it to friends. My spouse and I had a blast. The whiskey's delicious, the tour was fun and educational, the site is beautiful. Did I mention the whiskey is delicious? And the drive in and out is pretty: mountain and forest views from where we were (Lenox, MA)

This weekend with friends we toured Hillrock Distillery. Hillrock sells about 1,000 cases of spirits a year versus Maker's Mark's 1.2 million cases a year. Maker's Mark loses more booze a year than Hillrock makes. Our tour guide was Timothy Welly, Head of Operations. Tim is passionate about all things whiskey. He's a walking encyclopedia. The tastings: We tasted 5 Hillrock products neat. Yes, a drop of water does change the flavor profile for the better. The sniffer you take home. Can't explain why tiny bit of water makes a difference Fun Learnings from the Bourbon Tour: * Federal Taxes are paid at time that bourbon goes into the barrel. A tax credit is issued at time of bottling for any evaporation (about 2% per year, depending on barrel size, typically 53 gallon) * New white oak barrel represents about 60% of the cost of making bourbon. No nails or glue are used in making a barrel. The practice of charring the barrel, a legal requirement to make bourbon today, began at a time when barrels had multiple purposes and charring the barrel was used to eliminate fish and other odors before its use to transport whiskey. That's part of the accidental birth of bourbon as we know it today. * A few distilleries such as Hillrock finish their bourbon for a few weeks in used Sherry or wine barrels for added flavor and complexity * Water is added to bourbon at time of bottling to achieve the stated alcohol level...but nothing else may be added to bourbon such as food coloring or inexpensive neutral grain spirits (vodka) as is added to "blended" Canadian Whisky (Canadian Club) or American blended whiskey (Seagram's Seven). [Editorial comment: If there was truth in labeling, US blended whiskey would be re-named Whiskey-flavored Vodka--that's what it really is] * After the bourbon barrels are used up and may not be used again to make bourbon, bourbon barrels are broken down for shipping to Mexico or Scotland and re-assembled for aging of other spirits such as Tequila and Scotch. * Hillrock claims that 80 percent of bourbon flavor comes from aging in the barrel and 20 percent from the strain of yeast and choice of grains used at time of production, such as corn, barley, wheat (softer flavor) and/or rye (spicier flavor). The ingredient list gets the attention but the barrel does the heavy lifting * Relaxation of distillery taxes and licensing has made this all possible. Uncharacteristically for NY State, it is leading the way to promote a new industry. Kudos. I was curious...here's my calculation of the retail value of a 53-gallon barrel of aged Hillrock Bourbon at maturity: $100 retail per bottle * 200627 mL / barrel (53 gallons) ÷ 750mL / bottle * (125 ÷ 92.6) proof adjustment (after water added) * 0.89 (6 years' 2% evaporation per yr) = $32,000 retail value per barrel of Hillrock Solera Bourbon We saw one wall of 55 barrels...that would be worth $1.75mm at retail! Terrific tour, and delightful product. At the end of the tour, we took out a loan and bought our favorite bourbon. With bourbon purchase, the tour is free...only pay tour sales tax. Tip: A fine choice for lunch is The Farmers Wife, 2.5 miles away, in Ancramdale.

What a beautiful place to visit! The tour and tasting took an hour and was a perfect amount of time to experience everything. It's just too bad there is nothing more to explore in the immediate area. Hudson NY is a quick 30 minute drive away.

Great tour, excellent tour guide Bobby and delicious product. Every whiskey we tried was very good. Would highly recommend to anyone that likes whiskey from the ocasional drinker to the connoisseur.

This is one of the great gems in the Hudson Valley. Their spirits are world class. And once you hear the story and the care that goes into making these products, you will gain an even greater appreciation for the quality behind the bottle. Definitely ask for Tommy to be your tour guide. He is one of the most knowledge individuals that I have ever encountered in the spirit industry. He sprinkles in lessons on life with amusing stories centered around whiskey and other spirits that is sure to entertain any group.

My cousin and I came to Hillrock with our girlfriends for a tour and tasting which was absolutely incredible. We have tasted hundreds of whiskeys before and been to tasting experiences but never had Hillrock whiskey before. Hillrock was easily the number one tasting experience we have been to. Upon arrival we were enthusiastically greeted by Omar making us feel right at home even though we showed up 15 minutes late to our scheduled time. As Omar brought us through the tour it was obvious he has a passion for whiskey and is extremely knowledgeable on the subject as well as the history of Hillrock Distillery. Stepping into the rickhouse was my favorite experience as you get hit with the magnificent scent of whiskey ageing in barrels. Omar brought us through the Solera aging process which is basically the ultimate infinity barrel. After that, We stepped inside the malt house where we were greeted with the aroma of malted barley being raked. We made our way over to the Vendomme Copper Hybrid Still, saw the fermentation process, and even tasted the white dog distillate. The hearts of the Hillrock distillate was the cleanest tasting distillate I've had the pleasure to taste, I wish I had a glass of that during the actual tasting experience later on. Finally our tour concluded with the part we were all waiting for. The tasting experience. We entered the main room to a perfectly set table, polished glasses, and a charcuterie board which did not dissappoint. My cousin and I got the barrel proof tasting which I'm glad we did. As I nosed the first glass of Barrel Proof Solera Aged Bourbon Cognac Cask Finish my mind took me right back to the rickhouse, it was the exact scent that was coming off of the aging barrels. Each and every whiskey we tasted was absolutely incredible. Hillrock Estate Distillery was a true grain to glass experience that was entirely made better by the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide Omar that took us through the tour. We will be back.

We had a great day visiting this unique distillery. The tasting was awesome and so was the charcuterie. Friendly and knowledgeable staff rounded out a perfect day. We all left with multiple bottles of their handcrafted spirits!

Our guide was totally knowledgable & energetic. The variety of spirits are fantastic! Is it possible to taste like New York? Great family day outing. Take the bourbon & rye lover in your family.

The Hillrock farm is beautiful and everyone working their is incredibly friendly. And the whiskey is delicious! Will definitely go back!

For any serious Whiskey drinker this tour is a must, the tour guide Omar was great! Mike and Bob too! This is top notch Whiskey and you see how everyone involved cares about what their doing there. 10 out of 10

The guided tour was excellent. The tasting was superb. The distillery is beautiful. And the whisky is exceptional. Lovely afternoon.

Visited Hillrock today for a tasting. A very nice distillery with inside and outside seating. Got to sample 5 delicious whiskeys including 2 Bourbons, 2 ryes and a single malt. Omar, our bartender, was very friendly and knowledgeable. Took home a Sauternes finished rye and a delicious single malt. Will be going back!

We were there on a rainy cold day and it was AMAZING!!!! We had a great tour of the facility (despite being later in the day) and learned so much. And their. Product ... to die for! Highly recommend.

Lots of fun. Great for an afternoon stop. Great tasting five plus different varieties to try. Very informative tour. Not too long. Not rushed. Very inviting

We have been on a lot of distillery tours and this was one of the best! The distillery is beautiful and unique and the whiskey is great. Omar, our tour guide, was very knowledgeable and obviously passionate about Hillrock. He answered all of our questions (and we had a lot)! We will definitely be back.

Came upon this place by chance. Walked in a few minutes before opening and Bobby was kind enough to give us a tour! They are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. At the end of the tour there is a tasting, and the whiskeys are some of the best I've ever had! All situated on a gorgeous farm, this is a phenomenal facility. We'll be back!

A great setting and some of the best spirits we have tested. The tour was great and would definitely return. Don't leave this area without visiting

The distillery puts out some excellent whiskeys, brought home a bottle of the Solera bourbon. We went on a tour of the distillery with Douglas and he was great. Douglas was knowledgeable and friendly and really made it a nice experience. On top of the great whiskeys you also get to take in the beautiful design of the estate and the wonderful Hudson Valley location.

Took the Tour+Tasting. Had Thomas as guide, he is knowledgeable and passionate about whiskey. The distillery is turning out fantastic products. Highly recommend taking the tour and sampling the various whiskeys they offer.

A beautiful drive up to Ancram. The Team at the Distillery was amazing, full of passion, and very excited to share what they do and how they do it. Everyone took their time explain the process of whiskey making, didn't rush us through the tour, and showed us each step of the process. In most places it would be 15 minutes tour, here it was a full hour. The whiskey and rye are delicious, and the tasting was amazing. I've been a fan of the Hillrock Solera for years, and I was really glad to see how it was made. The grounds surrounding the Distillery are visually stunning. A great trip!