US craft distillers facing numerous headwinds as whiskey tariffs loom: 'We're not celebrating'

Published On Nov 10, 2024, 7:00 AM

The craft distilling industry is facing significant challenges due to increased distilling input costs related to inflation and potential tariffs on American whiskey. Distillers are reporting flat or declining sales as consumer spending tightens. Notably, some distillers like Cedar Ridge and Koval are not seeing the sales growth they previously enjoyed and are worried about future economic impacts. However, there is a reported increase in the sales of ready-to-drink products and non-alcoholic options, indicating some shifting consumer preferences in the market.